We turned our clocks ahead so more daylight. Win, Win on my post work day running (except for the rain.)
Sadly the week ended with the CANCELLATION of Half Marathon #42 and #3 for 2020: NYC Half Marathon!!!
Very upset..all that training…for NADA!
I can get a confirmed entry for next year but I don’t get a refund ($130) for this year’s race and I have to pay another $130 for next year’s race.
That really sucks!!
I will probably take the refund and take my chances with the lottery (or some miracle that I can run fast enough again & get into the timed entry lottery.)
Unfortunately I did not register for the Brooklyn Half because I did not want to run two half marathons that started in Prospect Park.
Enough whining!!
Last Week –
Monday – I started the day with a PT appt…my last one!! It was like graduation.
I love Ashley. I was sad and happy to say good-bye. Now we are just FB friends.
Then after work, I went back to my podiatrist…the one who gave me the shot a few weeks ago. We talked about next steps… Nada! Continue wearing the metatarsal pad (instead of buying expensive orthotics) if it helps and if the pain starts to return, she’ll give me another B12 shot.
celebration drink!!
A beautiful spring day (74 degrees!!) and of course, it was a rest day. I was able to sneak in a quick walk before my meeting for the Freihofers Run for Women Ambassador Program. It was held at the Athleta store in the mall…(so that we would buy something with our 30% discount).
I only knew one or two of the runners so it was great meeting the others. Sorry Athleta, I stayed true to Skirt Sports and only bought a bra.
Tuesday – I planned to run with Chris after work and was hoping that the predicted rain would hold off. But it was obvious that if I waited for her to finish work, we would get rained on. I was right.
a solo run but a dry muggy one
Wednesday – Another after work run. This time with Chris. We were as usual had the end of the day draggies but we got it done.
Back at UAlbany for the first time this week
Thursday – I cancelled my chiro appt. It didn’t seem to matter if I was not running the half marathon on Saturday. I may schedule another before my April 18 half marathon (if that race happens.)
My NYC friend did pick up my race shirt and medal.
NYC HM
Instead of a run, I went out to dinner with a former co-worker. Unfortunately she had had to cancel her wedding due this this stupid virus.
Friday – Another rest day. I planned to stop at the gym before playing mah jongg.
UGH!!!
Saturday – I ran with Stan and the Sole Sisters. Since the NYC Half Marathon was cancelled, Sherry, Stan and I decided to run it virtually (I had to earn that medal and shirt!). It wasn’t easy and Stan is quite speedy so it was faster than my normal long run (but obviously slower than a race.) Chris was there too to cheer us on. And after, we all went out to a delicious and well-deserved brunch.
we ran in both directions on the Nisky bike path…it was a little breezy in one direction but quite comfortable (even warm) in the other
Sunday – Another rest day (with NO gym available). I got my nails done and did some errands and took a long walk with Barbara.
we chatted and chatted, saw an eagle and I wore my new HOKAs (yup, I returned the last pair and trying another…)
This Coming Week –
Monday –run
Tuesday – rest day, hair appt.
Wednesday – train to NYC, run in CP, meet up with Cari & Elizabeth
Thursday – run on HL or along the Hudson, Billy Joel Concert (cancelled)
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? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Who was running the NYC Half Marathon? Ever have a big race that you trained for cancelled? How do you feel when you are done with PT? Do you regularly see a chiro (even if you are not injured?) What about orthotics? Have you spent the $$$ on custom ones? Please share.
It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.
My Topic today is about my Neuroma.
If you’ve been reading blog, you are aware since November 20 and until recently, I’ve been suffering with foot pain….diagnosed as a possible Neuroma.
Being a stubborn runner, I did run.
Here are some of the things that I’ve learned that may help you if you ever suffer from one (and I hope you never do.):
1.Rest and Anti-Inflammatory Medications – The onset of a Neuroma is usually gradual. In some cases (like mine), a Neuroma can occur suddenly. In these cases, taking a few days (or weeks) to rest and allow your body to heal could be beneficial. Similar to rest, a short course of anti-inflammatory medication (over the counter or prescribed) can also allow your foot to heal, if the onset of the Neuroma symptoms is relatively sudden.
2.Injections- Cortisone is basically an anti-inflammatory. When injected in the area of the Neuroma, it can reduce the swelling in the nerve and help it to heal. Other types of injections also exist: a dilute alcohol solution is sometimes used to chemically deaden the nerve. Vitamin B12 can also be used.
3.Physical Therapy- There are circumstances where PT can be effective. Tight calf and hamstring muscles place added pressure on the ball of the foot. Physical therapists can help reduce pressure on the ball of the foot by working on the stretch and laxity in the calf and hamstring muscles. They may also use other tools such as ART, ultrasound heat or lasers.
4.Padding- There are a variety of pre-made inserts designed to alleviate the painful symptoms of a Neuroma. The easiest to use is a small adhesive cushion called a metatarsal pad. This pad is a soft cushion with a triangular, teardrop shape. When effective, the metatarsal pad shifts weight in front of the Neuroma, allowing it to heal. If runners cannot find a comfortable over the counter insert, a custom orthotic can be made by your doctor.
my mummy foot lol
5.Shoes – Shoes with a heel exceeding 2 inches, and shoes with narrow toe boxes place increased stress on the toes and the bones along the ball of the foot. This can aggravate a Neuroma. This is also true for running shoes that have tapered, snug-fitting toe boxes. Being mindful of shoe choice can help a Neuroma to resolve. Runners need to try out different shoes to find the one that works best for them.
perhaps?? – lower heal drop and more cushion on the ball of foot in addition to a wide toe box
**Pain Relief Cream – Voltaren (or generic) – This is prescription only and can be rubbed onto the painful area of the foot.
I never thought I would run again without pain. But I am. For how long? No one knows. If you have a Neuroma, you are not cured. The pain may return.
If you have read my previous post, you know that I tried all of the above in this order:
Rest – for 3 weeks
Naproxen – for 2 weeks
Cortisone shot
PT – for 8 weeks (with ART, heat ultrasound and laser therapy)
I guess I’m tapering for my next half marathon but it don’t feel like I have been training. It was a very busy work week.
I continued to experience only minor foot discomfort. Hooray!!
Last Week –
Monday – I started the day with a PT appointment. She worked on BOTH feet and calves…. I hope to be done with PT next week!!
A little tired because I stayed up until midnight to register for this:
It’s July 5 and I’ve already wanted to do this but had to work… the good hikes sell out fast… Excited to hike Pinnacle Peak.
And one of my favorite author’s special day:
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. And when things start to happen, don’t worry. Don’t stew. Just go right along. You’ll start happening too! You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so…get on your way!”
So he inspired me after work to go for a run. I was solo since my friends were busy 😦 Warm temps but windy and no rain!!!
I ran on the rail trail and was over dressed…this crazy weather!
Tuesday – Another after work run…again hoping for no rain. It was really dark when I finished work so I made the decision to run right away instead of waiting for Chris to get out of work. And it was a good call as it started to pour as soon I finished my run.
I ran on the Corning Bike Path since it was closer than UAlbany and I overdressed again.
Wednesday – I would normally call it a rest day but I would not be able to run the next two days and I was anxious to try out my Hokas. Today I did run with Chris at UAlbany. Neither one of us felt peppy but we got it done.
I was too tired from standing all day to give a verdict on the Hokas.
Thursday – Finally a rest day due to an after work eye appt. I ordered new glasses. I normally wear contacts but my glasses were old. Maybe now I’ll wear my new cool expensive glasses (or not?)
Friday – Another rest day and my weekly mah jongg night (and going to bed too late.)
Saturday – My last long run before the NYC Half. I ran on the Corning Bike Path with some of the Sole Sisters ( and Stan.) Since I skipped my 11 mile long run and shortened my 12 miler to 11, I had decided to run 10 miles rather than 8 but then I wound up with 11.5. One mile solo, 5.5 with Stan and then 5 with Chris and Deb. The miles with Stan were way too fast so I left him to run the rest of his miles with Sherry. It was colder than previous days but when the wind was at our back and the sun in our faces, it was quite comfortable. Afterward we joined the others for brunch.
Stan & I twinned with our Lebow beanies. Hokas felt great on the bottoms of my feet but gave me blisters on the sides (too wide??)
In the evening (after errands, laundry), the hubby and I went out to dinner with my stepson and his wife. Yes, more food (but I did run 11.5 miles!!)
Sunday – Lost an hour of sleep but gained an hour of daylight. Started the day with mega cooking for the week. Then decided to celebrate International Women’s Day with another run with some of the Sole Sisters. We returned to Corning and got accompanied by some dogs!
50 degrees…overdressed AGAIN!!
.After my run, I met some friends to go to the movies.
This Coming Week –
Monday – am PT appt, rest day, pm Dr appt, FRW ambassador meeting
Tuesday – run
Wednesday –run
Thursday – rest day, chiro appt.
Friday – rest day, mah jongg
Saturday – rest day, bus to NYC, bib pick up, carb loading
Sunday – Race DAY – NYC Half Marathon, refueling, bus home
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? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Who’s running the NYC Half Marathon? Are you a Dr. Seuss fan? Have you seen any good movies lately? Please share.
to join up with Coco & Deborah for their ultimate coffee date.
1.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I’ve started taking yoga classes monthly. These two hour classes are geared for runners and every month, the teacher picks a different part of the body:
November – lower back & spine
December – upper back & neck
February – feet & calfs
March – quads & hamstrings
April – glutes and piriformis
Do you do yoga? If you do, do you do it on your own or sign up for classes?
2.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I have my THIRD half marathon of the year coming up. New York City Half Marathon. Last year I ran it recovering from a calf injury.
I was hoping to be trained for it this year…
Nope, my foot has had other things to say.
Still excited about running through Times Square again. And I hope the temps are warmer than last year.
NYC Half Marathon
Are you running the NYC Half? If so, let’s meet up!
Do you repeat Half Marathons? Why or why not?
3.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that my running friends & I have planned our FOURTH race-cation.
We’ve already done Wineglass HM in Corning, NY, Hot Chocolate 15K in Brooklyn and a Rock n Roll HM in Montreal.
Our next one is in October – Smuttynose HM in Hampton Beach, NH. We rented a house for 4 days…
Do you go on race-cations with your running friends? Anyone run the Smuttynose Half running are have run the Smuttynose Half?
4.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I am still trying to figure out what is the best running shoe for me … yes, after 10 years of running.
I tried Altra Torin Plush. Nope!!
I loved my Nikes but after the strained calf muscle, I switched to Mizuno Inspires.
Now with the foot neuroma….
Altra Lone Peaks will be great for trail this summer, though
I tried Brooks Ghost. Nope.
Next up…Hokas?
Anyone else have problems finding the right running shoe? Anyone else run with a neuroma? What do you think of Hokas?
5.Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I am so over winter running. Wearing a skirt in Bermuda just wet my appetite.
Are you as anxious as I am for warmer temps? Did you get away this winter to a summerish climate to run?
Over coffee…
I’d tell you that I’m not big on ambassador programs. In fact, there are only two that I now am part of.
One is Skirt Sports. Actually I am this year a Legacy Ambassador which means I have already been an ambassador for several years. I don’t have to promote as in the past but you bet I will because it’s the only brand of skirt (tights and capris) that I wear. (Get 15% with this code: SS15Dar562)
But for the first time, I am a Freihofer Run for Woman race ambassador. I am surprised and excited about this!! It is my favorite race and am honored to chosen and can’t wait to promote it.
Register for this race and get $5 off with the code AMBSS5
Are you an Ambassador for any products or races? If so, which one(s)?
Do you wear Skirt Sports?
Are you running or have you ever run Freihofer Run for Women?
It’s Friday so I’m also linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.
Happy Running! Got anything to spill? Share it here!
Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner) and you should too.
My Topic today is: Taking Time Off From Running – Yes or No?
Obviously there are many reasons to take time off.
Injuries – Unfortunately they happen. Some are just niggles. And others are serious and require a good deal of time off.
just a few days here and there
5 months off
Busy Schedule (Work/Travel/Family) – Yes, there are other things in life that come before running.
I so wanted to run but then they’re my tennis friends….
Weather Conditions – Especially if you live in the NE, weather can get in the way. No one wants to run when it is sub zero or icy. And not everyone will or has access to run on a treadmill.
brrrrr
Loss of Running Mojo – You just do not feel like running. You may feel burned out. You dread getting out the door. So you skip or shorten runs. You may even stop running for a period of time.
Sickness – No fun running with a cold. Probably not capable of running with the flu and definitely not with any kind of stomach-related sickness.
Recovery – Too many miles on the legs such as after a long run or a big race. You need to rest so you don’t end up injured.
I rarely take time off unless I HAVE to. “Have to” means to me ice, rain, or broken bones. I don’t need a lot of sleep and knock on wood, I rarely get sick or feel rundown. I credit running… for my being healthy.
Guilty. I’ve run with injuries.
ouchy…sore foot
Guilty. I run when I am busy. I make time for running whereas I will be too busy for other things like strength training or yoga or stretching.
I look forward to running after work and with my friends on the weekend. It brightens up even the dreariest of days!
Last week, I went to a new doctor who prescribed wrapping and padding my foot. She also gave me a B12/cortisone shot. This week was my chance to test the foot…weather permitting.
AND IT PASSED!! Woo Hoo!
Last Week –
Monday – I started the day with a PT appointment. I told her that I walked over 8 miles a day in Montreal with little pain. She was very encouraged…maybe I will be graduating soon?
After work, I went for a run with Jeri. 60 degrees in Feb!! So awesome. In spite the great weather, my run was so sluggish. At least, my foot did NOT hurt.
the usual UAlbany loop. I was so hungry that I couldn’t wait to eat after my run lol
Tuesday – Long Day (starting at 7 am) working tech support at the Bar Exam. I was hoping that the rain would hold off so I could run. And it did! Although the weather was cooler and drearier, I felt a lot peppier. Go figure! Still no pain!!! Yeah!
when I worked here, this was the route I ran after work most days
Wednesday – A well deserved rest day and after work trip to bike at the gym.
Thursday – Had to take the hubby to the airport at 4:30 am (He’s playing in a tennis tournament in Fla). It was a nasty rainy/snowy windy day but the rain stopped so Chris and I were able to get our run in. Cold and very windy!!
31 degrees with feels like 18 temps due to the wind!!!
Friday – Another day at the Bar Exam and a rest day since I was hosting mah jongg at my house.
Saturday – A long run with the Sole Sisters. Since I skipped my long run last weekend but I have a half marathon in TWO WEEKS, I wasn’t sure how many to run. But I was very interested to see if my foot could give me some pain-free miles. I can’t say it was pain-free or uneventful. I ran one solo mile and then 7 with Deb & Chris. It started to snow and it got icy. I almost fell several times. Chris did fall. We turned around and ran 2 more miles running into Heidi and Angie. The sun came out and then it got windy. 11 miles done (I had hoped to do 12.) and my foot was a little sore but so much better than before. Unfortunately the other foot (bunion area) hurt. Always something. A tough run however, a delicious brunch with friends made it feel better.
ran 4:1 intervals but it was still hard…glad to not have to do my runs alone 🙂
Of course I watched the Olympic Trials. So sorry for Des!
And I returned my Ghost 12s and got these:
Hoka Cliftons…
spent some alone with the kitty
Sunday – Recovery day at the gym,
surprised? Yeah, me too.
Then did some errands, cooking, laundry, cleaning and the hubby came home late that night.
waiting for my car inspection.. McD’s Shamrock Shake is my weakness
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? Anyone training yet for a big 2020 race? Who’s running the NYC Half Marathon? 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 still ran ALL month even though my foot pain was no better…
but it was no worse.
2. I runfess…
I ran another Half Marathon without completing ALL my long runs.
4 mile race instead of 12 LSD
3.I runfess…
Even though I was dealing with constant foot pain, I still registered for THREE more Half Marathons..
May – Steel Rail
September – Saratoga Palio
October – Smuttynose
Girls WEEKEND!! YEAH!
That’s now SEVEN for the year….
4. I runfess…
When I heard that ZOOMA Bermuda Half Marathon would run out of medals for the slower runners, I wanted to finish faster than I had originally planned.
luckily they did NOT run out of medals because I did not have a good finish time
5.I runfess…
I almost registered for the 2020 NYC Marathon…
Yeah, I said that I was ONE and DONE!
But it is the 50th anniversary of the race….
I DID NOT register (even though I qualified with a timed-entry) because the site went down and I was working at the time…PHEW! Relieved.
The race was cancelled after Hurricane Sandy so technically 2021 is the 50th running of the race.
So maybe next year… (If I can conquer that foot pain and get back to running at a decent pace…)
It’s Friday so I’m linking up with Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five linkup! Join in! Don’t forget to link back to your hostess and visit some other bloggers.
Happy Running! Anything to runfess this month? Please share.
I had enough frequent flyer miles for a free flight.
Only 1 1/2 hour flight from JFK.
It was held on Presidents Day weekend (one less day to take off from work)
I found out that fellow bloggers Erika and Marcia were also running it. And I’ve never met Erika.
It was advertised as a scenic course with ocean views.
An all women race… who can argue with that?
I’ve never been to Bermuda.
Two races = 3 medals (BLING!)
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 several weeks before in NYC…with foot pain. The foot pain continued and I considered downgrading to the 10k. But I am stubborn and decided to tough it out. (I mean I just ran a HILLY half in NYC in the freezing cold…)
As with all my half marathon training, I did not really care about my week day runs. They were usually 3 miles. However, I do try to do longer runs on the weekend.
So after 13.1 miles on January 19, I did manage to complete 11 mile and 9 mile training runs. I skipped the 12 miler in favor of a 4 mile race + 5 more miles after.
Polar Cap Run
The goal for this half marathon was finishing!! Not to race it, not to get injured and not to make my foot pain worse!!!
Pre-Race Activities and Preparations:
Although the half marathon was scheduled for Sunday morning, Cari and I arrived (with no flight drama) late Wednesday night.
We had planned to stretch the legs and get used to the hills and humidity on Thursday morning. But instead we mostly walked the beach, the hilly railway trail and climbed to the top of a light house. Not much running but lots of steps!
The rest of the day was spent reading and relaxing at the hotel pool
HEATED!!
sun+book=heaven
and exploring Royal Naval Dockyard in the evening.
On Friday, both Cari and I got itchy to run. Finding a non-hilly route was a challenge. We tried the golf course. NOPE! And then we finally settled for looping the hotel.
Thanks to a ZOOMA Bermuda FB group, we able to communicate with many of the runners who shared their plans and ideas for their stay on the island. We decided to take a ferry after our run and spend Valentine’s Day touring Hamilton.
catching the ferry
runners on the ferry
Valentine’s Day
our postcard
city hall
moon gate
We returned in time for the first race event – the Welcome Party (at our hotel):
Pick up your race bib plus your welcome gifts!
Attend the course talk with ZOOMA race staff
Drinks, music and appetizers courtesy of the Bermuda Tourism Authority
We met some familiar faces and lots of new ones. Sara, the ZOOMA Race Series Owner, gave us tips on running the race. She warned us about the hills and the narrow winding roads and reminded us to run with traffic on the LEFT side of the road. (Yes, this is a British island.)
We also met the pacers for the race (many of whom were on our flight.) They made sure to chat with every runner in order to help them finish at their desired pace. (My pace = ????)
blogger meet-up with Marcia
welcome gift = all the makings of a Dark n Stormy
half zip and tank + a bag
Unfortunately our beautiful Bermuda weather ended. We woke up to wind, rain and chilly temps on Saturday. But it didn’t really matter because we had the OFFICIAL GROUP EXCURSION scheduled:
Round trip transportation from hotel to Crystal Caves + Swizzle Inn
Entry to both of the Crystal Caves
Lunch reservation at Swizzle Inn
Both Crystal and Fantasy Caves were breathtaking and our lunch delish.
Crystal Cave
lots of stairs in Fantasy Cave
After our trip to the caves, we hung out in the hotel and relaxed before getting ready for the Lighthouse Run.
walking up the hill to the Lighthouse
not raining…yet!
a brief moment of sunshine…very brief
we twinned!!
The 2 mile course got changed to 1.5 miles and the rain and wind lessened as we walked up to the Lighthouse start but then re-started with a vengeance.
The race started at Gibb’s Lighthouse and ended at Horseshoe Beach.
Brr!!!
With a half marathon the next day, we decided to walk the race. And we got soaked.
running in the rain is better with friends
Still we had fun.
took off my poncho to sprint through the finish line…followed by Cari & Marcia (and a few others)
We ate some popcorn but didn’t stay too long at the beach (even though there were FREE drinks.)
We’re done!!!
1.5 miles. PR since I have never done this distance LOL (FYI: Barbara is from NYC and a Skirt Sports ambassador)
After the race, we took the shuttle back to the hotel from the beach, changed our clothes and had dinner in the hotel – Pizza for me, as usual. Carb loading complete!
first medal of the weekend!
I organized my usual race outfit (tank, skirt, compression calf sleeves, cap) and went to bed around 10 pm.
Race Day:
I brought my oatmeal and coffee from home with me and got up around 4:30 am to get ready and have breakfast in my hotel room..
It was NOT raining…hooray but still dark and a little chilly. I put on some throw aways and packed a bag for after and headed to the shuttle.
The shuttle left promptly at 6 am and we arrived in Hamilton at 6:30…still an hour to wander, take pics use port-a-potties.
foil sheet and throw away shirt did not last long.
I checked a bag with those throw aways, a down jacket and flip flops)
Before we knew it, it was time to walk UP to the start.
It was a small race (110 or so) so no corrals. The Half Marathoners lined up first so we had to say good bye to Marcia.
DIY arm warmers did not last either
As I mentioned, we had met all of the pacers at the Welcome Party. Now was the time to confirm whom we wanted to run with and line up with them.
so supportive and helpful…more like friends than pacers
I initially thought about running with the 2:15 pacers but as I told them, I was not running for pace and would most likely finish around 2:30.
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 at every other water stop. I planned to walk whenever necessary and NOT RACE it.
As always, I felt more energetic during the beginning miles. I started running with the 2:15 pacers. Unfortunately, my foot hurt from the first step to the last. I was disappointed but prepared for the pain.
Because I knew that I would slow down, I was actually (as you can see from the photo) ahead of the pacers.
smiling (not sure why) and ahead of the 2:15 pacers
There were hills from beginning to end. No road is flat on this island. No road is straight. Curve after curve…blind curves but we ran single file and with traffic. It was a little scary at times but the drivers were very courteous and moved over for all runners.
still ahead…
I stopped at each water stop as planned. I drank my water quickly because I did not want to litter on this beautiful island.
From mile 2 to 3, I think, it was starting to drizzle and then the rain got harder and harder. I was thinking that it would be a repeat of the night before but I wasn’t prepared for the rain. There was NO rain in the forecast.
Luckily it stopped. I was soaked which turned out to be a blessing. The sun came out, the humidity rose and the air got warmer and heavier.
And wet socks = blisters (I got a big one that didn’t hurt and a small one that did.)
Miles 5-8:
10:58, 10:17, 10:22, 11:14
The biggest hill was at mile 4. I walked/ran up all the hills (which I guess was the whole race lol). I finally ate my first one of the three gels. I followed what worked in my last half and full. Different brand of gel for each stop. (Honey stinger, e-gel, Gu)
they’re gaining on me lol
and the pacer passes me
I did smile every time I saw a photographer…even if I was running in pain.
I’m sure I’ve lost them by now
Foot pain continued but I focused on the course which was breath-taking. I lost the 2:15 pacer which was to be expected.
However, my other foot started to hurt (It has in the past = bunion!)
Miles 9-13.23:
11:03, 11:40, 11:42, 12:19, 11:30, (.23 -11:00)
I continued the same pattern except that my hill walking got longer and longer. I started to feel the humidity and almost wished that it would rain again.
My calves started cramping. This has NEVER happened to me before. Very painful!!
I could NOT sprint across the finish line.
I crossed at 2:23:21. (2:23:16 -Garmin time)
I was immediately handed water and two big medals and luggage tag.
I grabbed a needed drink (or two).
Dark n Stormy = my new favorite drink
Then headed to get some food to go along with my drink(s). Then off to bag check to retrieve my flip flops for my poor feet. (Down jacket?? What was I thinking??)
there were also tuna & egg salad sandwiches
They gave out age group awards but only to FIRST place in 10 year groups.
8 out of 9 – no chance even if I was not hurting
I met up with Marcia and then Cari. Everyone was happy with how the race turned out. Kudos to ZOOMA (and the ONPace runners!!)
We had planned on heading right back to the hotel (on the shuttle) but they encouraged us to stay for the Gombay dancers.
Then we chatted with RD, Erika. and watched the Pacers and last runner finish.
first time meeting a blogger that I have followed for years
Of course, no race would be complete without goofy beach/medal pictures.
Additional Race Reflections:
The Good:
Half Zip, Tank, Bag and map mailed to runners ahead of time.
Excellent communication about every aspect of the race before, during and after the race.
Transportation and excursions organized by ZOOMA
Easy packet pick-up at the hotel.
Welcome gifts. Luggage tags & makings for a Dark & Stormy drink, key chain.
Welcome party with appetizers and opportunity to meet the other runners and pacers.
Shuttle to and from the start
Sufficient number of port-a-potties at start/finish and along the course
Sufficient number of water/Gatorade stops (7) – 1 had Gels (I think) but I missed it.
Bag Check. Easy drop off and pick up.
Well marked course – mile markers and police directing traffic.
Free Massages at the finish.
Pacers. Great group. Personal attention given to each runner.
Planks given as awards.
Very cool medal(s) (and luggage tag).
Soup, sandwiches, popcorn, bars, fruit at the finish.
Gombay Dancers entertaining at the finish.
Lots of photographers on the course (ZOOMA and Professional)
FREE photos. Many many of each runner. In the FB group and on results page of web site.
Open bar…unlimited drinks at the finish.
Great weather. (except for the 1.5 mile run and one mile of the half/10k)
Quite a busy two weeks. First, I went to Bermuda with Cari for a vacation and a race or two. Then I ended the next week with a trip to Montreal with a friend.
Good thing, I had a passport already.
Last Two Weeks –
Monday – Lunch time chair yoga (the last one). I wish these classes would continue weekly.
yeah…I could do these on my own…but I won’t… I’m a NEED A CLASS kind of person
An after work run was planned…the weather did not cooperate all day (snow/rain/sleet) but stopped by time I went out to run. My friend Chris had to work late so I ran one loop and she joined me for the second.
drizzled for my first painful loop…felt better on the 2nd. Fairly comfortable temps (almost 40) so that is a win.
Tuesday – A before work PT visit. My last one before my next half marathon. More scraping, prodding and listening to me whine and complain.
A rest day due to a hair appointment and needing to pack for my trip.
Wednesday – Early morning train to NYC. I got there very early so took a stroll around Manhattan.
FYI: free bag check in Macys across from Penn Sta.
Then I took the LIRR from Penn Sta. to Jamaica where I took the air train to meet Cari at JFK for our evening flight to Bermuda.
We eventually arrived late that evening and took a shuttle to our hotel.
We discovered on that long shuttle ride that Bermuda is indeed hilly and that there are NO straight roads.
Thursday – I hadn’t run in a few days and I was anxious to get out there…and run in a skirt!!
But finding a place to run was no easy task. First we headed to Horseshoe Beach.
skirt weather..woo hoo!
Then along a railway trail that eventually led to Gibbs Lighthouse where we climbed to the top.
only 192 steps to the top
All that walking exhausted us so we spent the afternoon relaxing at the hotel pool
breezy and 70 degrees…warm enough for the heated pool and hot tub
before we took a bus to the Royal Naval Dockyard for dinner.
strolled the area and then ate at the Frog & Onion Pub
Friday – Since there was very little running the day before, we decided to attempt a run on the hotel golf course. Nope, hillier than the winding roads. But there was little time for exploring so we squeezed in a short one around the hotel grounds.
views were awesome …not the hills
After our run, we took the ferry (with some other runners) to spend the day in Hamilton. We explored the shops, streets and had a lovely lunch.
even found ibuprofen gel in a pharmacy (not sold in the US)
Then we took the bus back to the hotel. There was just enough time for a brief visit to the pool and meet up with friend and fellow blogger Marcia.
That evening was packet pick up and ZOOMA welcome party. Swag, drinks, hors d’oeuvres and new friends. So fun.
Saturday – A busy day planned and our only miserable cold, windy, rainy day. ZOOMA organized a trip to explore Crystal and Fantasy Caves. They were amazing. And so was lunch at the Swizzle Inn.
these pics don’t do it justice…you have to see them in person.
In the evening, we had our first race. The ZOOMA Lighthouse Run. It was still cold, windy and raining. Marcia, Cari and I decided to walk the 1.5 miles. We were soaked but arrived at Horseshoe Beach smiling.
yup, Cari & I accidentally twinned.
Sunday – The big day!! An early bus ride to the start and then the ZOOMA Bermuda Half Marathon. Both Cari and I were just running it to enjoy the scenery and collect our medal at the finish line. I knew that my foot would hurt but I knew I could do it in pain. The course was breathtaking with hills and curvy roads open to traffic. It rained for one of the early miles and then the sun came out and the humidity rose. It was tough. No lie. But such a well run race. Everyone had a great time and we made so many new friends. The Pacers from OnPace rocked!
no race is complete without goofy medal pix on the beach
After the race, we had thought of visiting the town of St. Georges. Our legs and feet thought the pool and hot tub were a better idea.
In the evening we walked (ouch) to Henry VIII for a celebration dinner and thankfully took a taxi back to the hotel.
Monday – An early wake up to catch the shuttle to the airport to fly home to JFK and then I had to take the air train to the LIRR and a train back home!!
Exhausted but happy with my decision to race in Bermuda (even if it was off season.) Definitely would love to go back sometime.
Tuesday – Back to normal. Work. Grey skies, cold temps, snow/rain. I decided to skip the after work run and ride the bike at the gym.
It was also National Drink Wine Day so of course, I had to…I met a friend for a glass of red.
Wednesday – Early morning visit to PT. I complained that my foot hurt just as much during my race as before I started seeing her. She recommended that I see another foot doctor. Luckily I got an appt for that same afternoon. She gave me B12/cortisone shot, added a metatarsal pad and wrapped my feet. We talked about all the options (most of which are NOT covered by insurance.)
not my foot lol
Afterward, I wanted to go for a run. My friend Chris was sick so I had to run solo. Boo!!
windy but sunny…not much pain…but too soon to tell…
After the run, I met my BFF for a walk around the mall.
Thursday – Back to running after work in my usual location – UAlbany with Chris. Teens with the windchill…brrrrr!
Chris was ok but I forgot my hat, gloves, jacket…had to make due with what I had in my trunk
Friday – Lunchtime walk and after work gym biking before mah jongg.
Saturday – Montreal trip instead of my long run with the Sole Sisters. Yes, my friend and I decided to drive there because I wanted to see the interactive Van Gogh exhibit.
We left at 6:30 am and after a 3.5 hour drive, we checked into our hotel and walked to the exhibit. A much longer walk than I thought but the weather was beautiful and the exhibit amazing. 200 paintings on moving screens choreographed to music. So worth the drive!!!
No running today but 8.5 miles on the feet as we also walked to the Old City to have a delicious French dinner.
Sunday – I got up early to do my run…supposed to be 11 miles. The weather was even better than the day before. I ran to the river and along it. I could have run forever but my friend was waiting in the hotel. Only got in 4.5 miles.
Afterward we walked around town and went to the Barbie Expo (yes over 1000 Barbies in costume). Then we had another delicious French meal before we checked out of our hotel.
On the way out of the city, we drove up to Mont Royal to catch the views.
So lucky that the weather cooperated. Might have been the nicest we’ve had this winter.
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/racing going? Have you been to Bermuda? Have you run a ZOOMA race? What’s new with you? Please share.
My First 5K and More... 