Seattle Half Marathon was on Sunday, and is now in the books. I think I have finally defrosted enough from the race to be able to type this recap of the adventure. This was a race that was more of a battle of my body than my mind. It also reminded me of my own personal strength.
I came into this race with the mentality that I would be fine with any sort of performance, so long as I completed what I started. I had not done much training because of my knee. Luckily I had new shoes to do this race, and I was truly hoping to not have the same knee issues that attacked me during the Everett race. What I did not expect was the bitter cold that had descended upon Seattle during the weekend. Spokane is typically much colder than Seattle, but this weekend was quite the opposite. It had also snowed in Seattle which is something that is very rarely seen in Western Washington. What this had created for the racers on Sunday morning was a special bit of frozen misery.
Just like last year, the race for my group had a start time of 745am. I was there early to be able to check in my items at gear check, do a last minute pit stop, and spend as much time as possible in the warmth of the building near by before heading out into the brisk 27F temperatures for a few hours. The blow horn went off, and so did I, down the cold streets of Downtown Seattle and along a race course I was very familiar with and was excited to see. I could tell that I had started a little too strong and started to slow down slightly, but kept a decent pace. The cold was piercing though, running through my body like a cold saline line placed through an IV. I figured I would be warming up as I continued along the course. Little did I know that this would not be happening until the acupuncture table.
Mile 2 came with the first water station. The road was slick as any water that had spilled was immediately turning to ice. The water in the cups had thin films of ice across the tops of them, similar to a thin sugar crust on creme brulee. At this point I was thankful for some basic science knowledge: salt changes the freezing point of water, and gatorade is contains salt. My water belt was now my only source of liquid refreshment along this journey as I cannot stand ice in my water. I would be okay, but I knew I needed to be very careful and aware of continuing to drink, even when I thought I didn't need anything. Dehydration was going to set in quickly if I went with the idea that I was freezing cold and therefore not thirsty.
I continued along the course and onto the icy I-90 Expressway. It was not until we reached the tunnels that things warmed up slightly, well that is until I was spit out of the tunnels and now off the freeway and traveling along the west edge of Lake Washington. Most of the course was shaded, and so much ice was found in various areas. I still kept pushing on, but I did notice that I was slowing down and my knee, the lovely left knee with the metal screws in it, was beginning to freeze up making movement more and more labored. Not knee instability, but the cold was bone chilling as it hit the screws and this frigged cold was now running down the length of my bone. I kept going though. I did not come all this way to stop just because it was cold. By the halfway point, I looked at my phone to check the time and knew that a race under four hours was not going to happen, and I could have cared less. Insert banana and away I went.
I kept going, and to my surprise I never did hit a wall. Sure, I was freezing, and my knee was freezing up more and more. My hip was now taking over on my left side, overcompensating for the lack of motion that my knee was producing. I had a vanilla flavored bathroom caulk packet at Mile 9, and still kept moving. It was not until Mile 11 that things began to warm up! I saw the sun, and it was shining down on me. Finally warming up slightly, but still not enough to make knee movement happen very well. Didn't matter. In the distance, I could see the Space Needle. This was my landmark to say that I was nearly finished. Follow the freeway, go down the hill, around the corner, up a slight incline, around the last corner and into the stadium to cross the finish line is all I needed to do. And this I did. I tried running, but I was not very successful. I was so cold that I felt as if my running was slower than my walking. I mustered up that last bit of everything in me to run that finish though. Snow and ice covering the shoveled stadium grounds, but I made it and earned that medal. I thought I was going to cry out of sheer relief.
My time: 4:25:00.
Not my best showing. But I still finished! Never again will I consider a race in temperatures less than 36F though as that is the coldest that I have found myself to be truly comfortable in for putting down the miles.
I went to the recovery area and changed into my warm clothes that I brought on purpose. TMI moment: my thighs were so red that they looked wind burned. I warmed up slightly in my toasty clothes, found some snacks, and went in for my acupuncture treatment. Here they worked on my knee some, and covered me in a space blanket as I still was shaking from the cold. Later I went on to massage where I was again warmed up, but they focused on my back and hip. I was, and still am a little sore, but nothing like I was on Sunday. My left calf is a bit tight, and I can feel some tightness in the left thigh as well. Over all, I am doing much better than I have done in most other races. Massage is a must have, and acupuncture is even better!
So would I ever do this race again? The short answer: yes. I enjoy this race. I was spoiled last year with weather in the upper 40s and lower 50s. This year, it never got above 30F. That is ridiculously cold, and not normal for the area. I do plan to do this race again, but right now, my job is to work on healing my knee more from the instability issues I was contending with, and getting back into the idea of training. I have no races planned for the future outside of the Seattle Rock n Roll with Chewy in June. At least we know that it will be so much more comfortable in June compared to what it was Sunday.
With that, since starting this journey, I have completed seven races in 14 months which is an average of a race every two months.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Realizations
November has quickly passed us by which means only one thing for me, and it has nothing to do with turkey: Seattle Half Marathon is this weekend! I have broken in my shoes decently. I am watching the weather reports so I know what to pack. I am doing intense amounts of homework in hopes that I will not be taking it with me. I am getting adequate sleep so as not to go into this exhausted. Most of all, I am really excited. I have been replaying my first Seattle Half in my mind, thinking about the areas where I need to have energy reserves. I am planning my food for Saturday, and what would be most satisfying, yet not weigh me down on Sunday. Overall, I feel ready for this race. While not well trained, I am in a wonderful mental place that says, "I can and will do this!"
A small bit of shock came to me yesterday as I was printing off my travel information and my race confirmation. I read through the confirmation paperwork and saw that it was February of this year when I registered for the Seattle Half. WOW! I knew it was early in the year, but to see that the date was early February was very neat. The major moment came when I continued reading. Seattle Marathon asks how many fulls and halves you have completed as of the day of registration. At the time, this number was two. As of today, that number is six. SIX! WOW! Who would have ever thought that this is what would have come to be. I look in my living room at my medal display, see all six hanging there, knowing there is a seventh coming shortly, and I am just in awe. I did that! Not only that, my race goal time listed on the registration is 3:59:59. I have also shattered that by more than 10 minutes.
The rest of this week will include homework, packing, spending time with my family here at home, and then traveling for this race. As for future races, June 2015 is the only one I have planned at this time. We will call that "Chewy's First Half" as she will join me for the Seattle Rock n Roll.
A small bit of shock came to me yesterday as I was printing off my travel information and my race confirmation. I read through the confirmation paperwork and saw that it was February of this year when I registered for the Seattle Half. WOW! I knew it was early in the year, but to see that the date was early February was very neat. The major moment came when I continued reading. Seattle Marathon asks how many fulls and halves you have completed as of the day of registration. At the time, this number was two. As of today, that number is six. SIX! WOW! Who would have ever thought that this is what would have come to be. I look in my living room at my medal display, see all six hanging there, knowing there is a seventh coming shortly, and I am just in awe. I did that! Not only that, my race goal time listed on the registration is 3:59:59. I have also shattered that by more than 10 minutes.
The rest of this week will include homework, packing, spending time with my family here at home, and then traveling for this race. As for future races, June 2015 is the only one I have planned at this time. We will call that "Chewy's First Half" as she will join me for the Seattle Rock n Roll.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Shoes!
Twenty two days until the Seattle Half Marathon, and I really feel like I am reliving last November with talks about shoes. This time is different though for a variety of reasons. I have realized a few things over the last month. I really like a tighter fit on a shoe, and hate wide toe boxes. I have a cute pair of every day shoes that I don't wear often, realizing only recently that it is the toe box that I dislike. My New Balance shoes are nicely supportive and great for 5K races, are not appropriate for half marathons and long term use. Reality is, I need way more support than those shoes provided, and again, wider toe box. I scoured the internet, asked for the help of others, and now I should be having a new pair of shoes any day now. This will be my third pair of Saucony Guide 6 shoes, and they will truly be a blessing. The sad part is they are a soon to be two year old model, and I am hoping to continue finding them here and there. Or, even better would be that the Guide 8 would be a shoe I like and find comfort in, something that the Guide 7 was lacking. I guess I should have listened to Chewy and bought the ones I saw at the Seattle Rock n Roll trade show back in June. Don't tell the 12 year old that she was right.
Another thing that I have realized is that my knee is unhappy when I am wearing less supportive shoes. The more I wore the New Balances, the worse the issues in my knee. Add in a pair of cute worn out loafers, a pair of shoes with okay support but wide toe box, and the running shoes, and my knee would be screaming at me! Even just one day of wear with any of those shoes was a recipe for disaster. Out of curiosity, or maybe a little desperation, I pulled out my miled out Sauconys. They were dead by the end of the Seattle Rock n Roll for distance racing, but have plenty of life in them for puttering around town like normal people. My knee has been in heaven. No pain! No funny weird twinges. All has been well. And my feet have felt great as well. This is why I decided to buy another pair of them. I really dislike the color of them, white/blue/silver, which would be pretty if they didn't look just so boring. The comfort makes it all worth it though.
Every time I am out is another learning experience for me. As of late, I have finally understood how much shoes make a difference. My fear now is if I will have enough time to break in a new pair of shoes before a race.
Another thing that I have realized is that my knee is unhappy when I am wearing less supportive shoes. The more I wore the New Balances, the worse the issues in my knee. Add in a pair of cute worn out loafers, a pair of shoes with okay support but wide toe box, and the running shoes, and my knee would be screaming at me! Even just one day of wear with any of those shoes was a recipe for disaster. Out of curiosity, or maybe a little desperation, I pulled out my miled out Sauconys. They were dead by the end of the Seattle Rock n Roll for distance racing, but have plenty of life in them for puttering around town like normal people. My knee has been in heaven. No pain! No funny weird twinges. All has been well. And my feet have felt great as well. This is why I decided to buy another pair of them. I really dislike the color of them, white/blue/silver, which would be pretty if they didn't look just so boring. The comfort makes it all worth it though.
Every time I am out is another learning experience for me. As of late, I have finally understood how much shoes make a difference. My fear now is if I will have enough time to break in a new pair of shoes before a race.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
And the Diagnosis Is...
It is official, I have what is known in normal people speak as Runner's Knee.
Seeing my orthopedist was nice today. He was so surprised and proud of me for all the progress I have made over the years. I had to explain to him my last half and the pain I had encountered. His look of amazement that I had done a half was great, but then telling him that it was my sixth half was even better. He knew me as the very much more sedentary me. I think of him daily as I am able to do so much now compared to before surgery.
My recovery from this should be easy. Relax another week, but continue to do those exercises I had already begun doing. He gave me a large list of exercises to do, instructions to do them three times daily. And he also have me his blessing that should I not have any continuing issues with the knee in the next few weeks, Seattle Half Marathon is a go. In a week, I can go back out and start walking and jogging as tolerated, but still do those other exercises. I will be ready for the end of November.
I knew it would be nothing serious, but it is nice to be reassured of that.
Seeing my orthopedist was nice today. He was so surprised and proud of me for all the progress I have made over the years. I had to explain to him my last half and the pain I had encountered. His look of amazement that I had done a half was great, but then telling him that it was my sixth half was even better. He knew me as the very much more sedentary me. I think of him daily as I am able to do so much now compared to before surgery.
My recovery from this should be easy. Relax another week, but continue to do those exercises I had already begun doing. He gave me a large list of exercises to do, instructions to do them three times daily. And he also have me his blessing that should I not have any continuing issues with the knee in the next few weeks, Seattle Half Marathon is a go. In a week, I can go back out and start walking and jogging as tolerated, but still do those other exercises. I will be ready for the end of November.
I knew it would be nothing serious, but it is nice to be reassured of that.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Knee Issues
This journey of half marathoning began with a successfully healed knee reconstruction that was completed in 2011. Prior to that, my left knee would chronically dislocate. How bad? Every time I bent my knee, my knee cap would slide out of place. Most of the time it would go back in place but there were the special moments, such as the one that landed me flat on my back in the mall and being loaded into an ambulance that proved to be much more severe. For the most part, the last three years have been uneventful. I had occasional annoyance from something hitting my shin where my hardware was imbedded in the bone, or my running limitations due to the hardware (why I run such small amounts), yet otherwise, I have been living a normal life.
Here is the bad news...
Sunday's race in Everett was not uneventful. My knee began to ache in a spot I knew all too well. I attributed some of it to the sloping of the ground as I know from past experiences that side sloping ground is horrible for me to walk on comfortably. I also thought that some of it might be my shoes. I bought some new shoes in August. These are New Balance shoes, and while they are great and comfortable, I do not find them as supportive for my needs as I do the Saucony shoe I have typically bought. So I thought some of it might be that the New Balance shoe was good for a 5K but not a half. But then the weird instability began. Anyone who has had knee instability can tell you that this is a horrible and scary feeling. I finished the race on Sunday, and as you know, I ended up running a lot towards the end. No issues other than the initial knee pain that seemed to go away, or so I thought.
I was at school today when I had some more instability. My knee is visibly inflamed and a bit tender. As I was shopping in the University bookstore, I felt my knee wiggle that all familiar "I'm going to think about going out on you" wiggle. NO!!! Not now! Or ever! I have another race in 6 weeks, and this is not going to be something I want in my way. As stubborn as I am, I can also be realistic. I scheduled an appointment with my orthopedic surgeon. He knows my knee inside and out. I suspect that some could be an overuse injury. I suspect that it is just a weak VMO muscle which is common and easy to rehab. But no matter what, I refuse to be stupid about this. I look up at my six medals and know that #7 is on its way. It is time to talk to my surgeon though before this gets out of hand and I land back on his table for a third surgery on this knee.
As I wait for next week, I am doing my VMO strengthening exercises that I learned in physical therapy; resting as much as possible; and wearing good supportive shoes. I will not be letting this end my half marathon experience.
Here is the bad news...
Sunday's race in Everett was not uneventful. My knee began to ache in a spot I knew all too well. I attributed some of it to the sloping of the ground as I know from past experiences that side sloping ground is horrible for me to walk on comfortably. I also thought that some of it might be my shoes. I bought some new shoes in August. These are New Balance shoes, and while they are great and comfortable, I do not find them as supportive for my needs as I do the Saucony shoe I have typically bought. So I thought some of it might be that the New Balance shoe was good for a 5K but not a half. But then the weird instability began. Anyone who has had knee instability can tell you that this is a horrible and scary feeling. I finished the race on Sunday, and as you know, I ended up running a lot towards the end. No issues other than the initial knee pain that seemed to go away, or so I thought.
I was at school today when I had some more instability. My knee is visibly inflamed and a bit tender. As I was shopping in the University bookstore, I felt my knee wiggle that all familiar "I'm going to think about going out on you" wiggle. NO!!! Not now! Or ever! I have another race in 6 weeks, and this is not going to be something I want in my way. As stubborn as I am, I can also be realistic. I scheduled an appointment with my orthopedic surgeon. He knows my knee inside and out. I suspect that some could be an overuse injury. I suspect that it is just a weak VMO muscle which is common and easy to rehab. But no matter what, I refuse to be stupid about this. I look up at my six medals and know that #7 is on its way. It is time to talk to my surgeon though before this gets out of hand and I land back on his table for a third surgery on this knee.
As I wait for next week, I am doing my VMO strengthening exercises that I learned in physical therapy; resting as much as possible; and wearing good supportive shoes. I will not be letting this end my half marathon experience.
Monday, October 13, 2014
But I Would Walk 500 Miles...(Half Marathon #6 Recap)
The Biggest Loser Half Marathon, or also known as Half Marathon #6 has been conquered. I have to say, this is one race that made me respect the distance that 13.1 miles covers. Looking back, it was even harder than my first. I am glad to have had this, and also humbled. In the end, I survived, learned a lot, and can say that I pushed myself in ways that no other race has forced me to do.
First of all, I should be open and honest. I haven't put in as much energy in training as I have in the past. Shame on me. I need to make more time for this, making it more of a priority. Going into this race, I had no exceptions of my own time. I wanted to do it in around four hours, but reality is, I was going to be pleased with anything that was not as slow as my first. This was going to be my new base line race that told me where I was now: better shape yet no training. I made travel arrangements with my race friend I had met in Phoenix to do this race with her; together we would make it ours. This was my third half marathon in Western Washington.
Mile one seemed to drone on and on. We know that I hate the first mile in any race as they are the longest. Mile two was pretty much a mile long incline; the first of many uphill battles. In fact, up, down, up, down, flat, down, up, up, and repeat was the name of the course. It was brutal! I never have done so many hills in a single course before. The CDA Half Marathon was also hilly, but this was even more so. Think along the lines of a roller coaster track. This kept things interesting for both my feet and my head.
I knew that I was towards the back of the pack, yet I had no qualms about this. At Mile 4, things changed a lot. My walking partner had to stop for the restroom, and if you have kept track of my own journey, you know that I will not stop for anything. My walking partner told me to keep going, and I was sure I would see her again later. At this point, I felt myself s-l-o-w d-o-w-n! The thought crossed my mind, "Who is crazy enough to do this distance, and why am I?" My walking partner still had not shown up. I was alone, and losing steam. Insert a banana and hope for the best.
I kept going, but I hit a wall. A horrible, blinding, almost caving in wall, ready to collapse on me and hold me hostage. I did not travel five hours to not finish a race. I must keep going. Miles 5 and 6 were a blur. Mile 7 came, and so did the ambulance sirens. Now I was scared. My girlfriend was doing this race as well, but had sustained a knee injury two weeks prior. She had intended to do the race in a wheelchair, but the tires were flat at race time, so she pulled out the crutches. I knew she was far behind me, but hearing those sirens terrified me! And then I heard an all familiar ding: my cell phone telling me I had a text. It was her, and the message was that she was okay. She knew I would be worried and texted me to say she was not in that ambulance. That gave me a little bit of steam, but it too began to fizzle out. Insert the frosting flavored bathroom caulk and again, hope for the best.
Mile 9 came, and I knew that once I saw the Mile 10 sign, I would only have a 5K left. I had looked at the clock on my phone earlier and had estimated my time to be around 4:20-4:30 for finish. I was okay with it as at this point, I just wanted done. And then music could be heard. Some house in the neighborhood was playing 80's music and it was invigorating! As soon as I could not hear it anymore, I realized that my cell phone had Pandora, and I could play an 80's station for myself. Why on earth had I not done this until now??? Soon the music was playing, loudly for anyone around me to hear as I did not have ear buds, and away I went! I was starting to pick up the pace. Song one played and I crossed the Mile 10 sign. And right after that, my new half marathon theme song played...
"I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers was blasting around me. And this is exactly what I needed. Again, the pace picked up, and now I was running! I ran the rest of that mile which is estimated at about 3/4 to 4/5 of the mile. Me! The person with screws in the leg who feels pain from running too much. ME! The one who was out of gas at Mile 4! ME!!! I was running and singing!!!
"But I would walk 500 miles, and I would walk 500 more..."
And you better believe that those words coming out of me were felt deep down to my core! Just so you know, I don't sing. If I do, I tend to have the charming melodic voice of a dying seagull mixed with 20 cats in heat. It really is that bad. But I needed to sing, and I didn't care who heard it.
That wall was crumbling! The energy was there but only in heart. Digging deep into my soul was the only thing getting me through, and then some music. Mile 11 came and started to get hard again, until I saw someone ahead of me on crutches and I knew exactly who that was: my girlfriend. I ran up to her, and she explained that she was picked up by the race crews and moved forward a few miles. Then she looked at me, knowing I wanted to stay but that I was fading and told me to go. She knew that I was struggling, but seeing her and hearing her blessing was enough to give me the last bit of steam. Around the rest of the curve I went, running ahead until I saw the Mile 12 sign. This was the hardest moment for me. Mile 12? But the finish line was RIGHT THERE! I could see it! A quarter of a mile away, if that, yet the sign said otherwise? And then someone in the sidelines yelled that the sign was wrong and I was indeed done. I ran with everything left in me. I crossed that finish line a winner. I gave it my all, pushing through so much, and here I was now with a medal around my neck! I did it! A few tears started to well, but I cry in public even less than I sing. It was truly emotional for me to finally be done. Then I spun around and was talking to race staff. I wanted to be able to present my girlfriend her medal. I may have had a hard time with my race, but it was nothing compared to hers. They agreed, and so I waited. It was during this time that I finally looked at the clock and was confused. The time was reading 3:59:some second. This was impossible I told the staff. They told me that no, it was based on the first wave of half marathoners to leave, and so they asked what wave I was in. I was in the last, but still, I was due to come in way after 4 hours, and the clock was reading in the three hour range. My interests were piqued but I needed to watch for the winner of my heart and medal. About 15 minutes or so later, there she was, and amazed to see me waiting for her. She fell into my arms and I just knew that it was time for a trip to First Aid. Blisters on the feet, extreme swelling of her knee, and a horrible amount of pain, but she could say she survived. Ten minutes after her came my friend from the Phoenix race. I was also allowed to present her with her medal and a giant hug. It was now official: All three of us had finished!
My finishing time was a huge surprise to me: 3:53:35!
I couldn't believe it when I saw that I was under four. How could this be? All I can say is that if it was not for my realization that music was needed, it would not have been this good. The surprise for me was seeing how close my time was to the CDA half in May. One minute, two seconds off! That had been my most challenging course until this one, and to see that time showed me that I am doing well, and with training, I can do even better.
So what did I learn? First of all, 13.1 miles needs to be respected. This was becoming to be easy for me, and well, it's not! This race humbled me to a place that needed to be reminded of and should keep in the front of my thoughts. Secondly is that music is my friend. I have never done music in my other races as there was often many bystanders cheering us on, or music being played that I was kept alive and motivated. Here I was stuck in my own head and this was not a good place as I was getting tired. Thirdly, training is so important. I have another race in about six weeks, Seattle Half, and you better believe that I need to train. I also realized that recovery post race is important. I am sore today and had a massage done this evening to help work out some of those knots that formed. Reality is, post race massage and acupuncture have been so great for me that I think in the future, this will be a requirement of mine before signing up for a race. If massage or acupuncture is not offered, I will not do it. This race was definitely harder than even my very first race, but I would not trade it for the world.
With that, I leave you with my Mile 10 anthem...
First of all, I should be open and honest. I haven't put in as much energy in training as I have in the past. Shame on me. I need to make more time for this, making it more of a priority. Going into this race, I had no exceptions of my own time. I wanted to do it in around four hours, but reality is, I was going to be pleased with anything that was not as slow as my first. This was going to be my new base line race that told me where I was now: better shape yet no training. I made travel arrangements with my race friend I had met in Phoenix to do this race with her; together we would make it ours. This was my third half marathon in Western Washington.
Mile one seemed to drone on and on. We know that I hate the first mile in any race as they are the longest. Mile two was pretty much a mile long incline; the first of many uphill battles. In fact, up, down, up, down, flat, down, up, up, and repeat was the name of the course. It was brutal! I never have done so many hills in a single course before. The CDA Half Marathon was also hilly, but this was even more so. Think along the lines of a roller coaster track. This kept things interesting for both my feet and my head.
I knew that I was towards the back of the pack, yet I had no qualms about this. At Mile 4, things changed a lot. My walking partner had to stop for the restroom, and if you have kept track of my own journey, you know that I will not stop for anything. My walking partner told me to keep going, and I was sure I would see her again later. At this point, I felt myself s-l-o-w d-o-w-n! The thought crossed my mind, "Who is crazy enough to do this distance, and why am I?" My walking partner still had not shown up. I was alone, and losing steam. Insert a banana and hope for the best.
I kept going, but I hit a wall. A horrible, blinding, almost caving in wall, ready to collapse on me and hold me hostage. I did not travel five hours to not finish a race. I must keep going. Miles 5 and 6 were a blur. Mile 7 came, and so did the ambulance sirens. Now I was scared. My girlfriend was doing this race as well, but had sustained a knee injury two weeks prior. She had intended to do the race in a wheelchair, but the tires were flat at race time, so she pulled out the crutches. I knew she was far behind me, but hearing those sirens terrified me! And then I heard an all familiar ding: my cell phone telling me I had a text. It was her, and the message was that she was okay. She knew I would be worried and texted me to say she was not in that ambulance. That gave me a little bit of steam, but it too began to fizzle out. Insert the frosting flavored bathroom caulk and again, hope for the best.
Mile 9 came, and I knew that once I saw the Mile 10 sign, I would only have a 5K left. I had looked at the clock on my phone earlier and had estimated my time to be around 4:20-4:30 for finish. I was okay with it as at this point, I just wanted done. And then music could be heard. Some house in the neighborhood was playing 80's music and it was invigorating! As soon as I could not hear it anymore, I realized that my cell phone had Pandora, and I could play an 80's station for myself. Why on earth had I not done this until now??? Soon the music was playing, loudly for anyone around me to hear as I did not have ear buds, and away I went! I was starting to pick up the pace. Song one played and I crossed the Mile 10 sign. And right after that, my new half marathon theme song played...
"I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers was blasting around me. And this is exactly what I needed. Again, the pace picked up, and now I was running! I ran the rest of that mile which is estimated at about 3/4 to 4/5 of the mile. Me! The person with screws in the leg who feels pain from running too much. ME! The one who was out of gas at Mile 4! ME!!! I was running and singing!!!
"But I would walk 500 miles, and I would walk 500 more..."
And you better believe that those words coming out of me were felt deep down to my core! Just so you know, I don't sing. If I do, I tend to have the charming melodic voice of a dying seagull mixed with 20 cats in heat. It really is that bad. But I needed to sing, and I didn't care who heard it.
That wall was crumbling! The energy was there but only in heart. Digging deep into my soul was the only thing getting me through, and then some music. Mile 11 came and started to get hard again, until I saw someone ahead of me on crutches and I knew exactly who that was: my girlfriend. I ran up to her, and she explained that she was picked up by the race crews and moved forward a few miles. Then she looked at me, knowing I wanted to stay but that I was fading and told me to go. She knew that I was struggling, but seeing her and hearing her blessing was enough to give me the last bit of steam. Around the rest of the curve I went, running ahead until I saw the Mile 12 sign. This was the hardest moment for me. Mile 12? But the finish line was RIGHT THERE! I could see it! A quarter of a mile away, if that, yet the sign said otherwise? And then someone in the sidelines yelled that the sign was wrong and I was indeed done. I ran with everything left in me. I crossed that finish line a winner. I gave it my all, pushing through so much, and here I was now with a medal around my neck! I did it! A few tears started to well, but I cry in public even less than I sing. It was truly emotional for me to finally be done. Then I spun around and was talking to race staff. I wanted to be able to present my girlfriend her medal. I may have had a hard time with my race, but it was nothing compared to hers. They agreed, and so I waited. It was during this time that I finally looked at the clock and was confused. The time was reading 3:59:some second. This was impossible I told the staff. They told me that no, it was based on the first wave of half marathoners to leave, and so they asked what wave I was in. I was in the last, but still, I was due to come in way after 4 hours, and the clock was reading in the three hour range. My interests were piqued but I needed to watch for the winner of my heart and medal. About 15 minutes or so later, there she was, and amazed to see me waiting for her. She fell into my arms and I just knew that it was time for a trip to First Aid. Blisters on the feet, extreme swelling of her knee, and a horrible amount of pain, but she could say she survived. Ten minutes after her came my friend from the Phoenix race. I was also allowed to present her with her medal and a giant hug. It was now official: All three of us had finished!
My finishing time was a huge surprise to me: 3:53:35!
I couldn't believe it when I saw that I was under four. How could this be? All I can say is that if it was not for my realization that music was needed, it would not have been this good. The surprise for me was seeing how close my time was to the CDA half in May. One minute, two seconds off! That had been my most challenging course until this one, and to see that time showed me that I am doing well, and with training, I can do even better.
So what did I learn? First of all, 13.1 miles needs to be respected. This was becoming to be easy for me, and well, it's not! This race humbled me to a place that needed to be reminded of and should keep in the front of my thoughts. Secondly is that music is my friend. I have never done music in my other races as there was often many bystanders cheering us on, or music being played that I was kept alive and motivated. Here I was stuck in my own head and this was not a good place as I was getting tired. Thirdly, training is so important. I have another race in about six weeks, Seattle Half, and you better believe that I need to train. I also realized that recovery post race is important. I am sore today and had a massage done this evening to help work out some of those knots that formed. Reality is, post race massage and acupuncture have been so great for me that I think in the future, this will be a requirement of mine before signing up for a race. If massage or acupuncture is not offered, I will not do it. This race was definitely harder than even my very first race, but I would not trade it for the world.
With that, I leave you with my Mile 10 anthem...
Sunday, September 21, 2014
Glow Run 5k Recap
Last night I did another 5K. This was called Glow Run, and it was similar to the Electric Run I did in August. Chewy joined me on this adventure, and I am so glad she did. I have been lazy, but she pushed me, reminding me that I am not so bad off as I think I am, and that Everett is coming very soon so I better get my butt into gear!
Glow Run was held in my hometown and starts in downtown. The route was one that I do frequently with friends as it cuts through the center of town, through a university campus, and along a river. It is a busy trail, but one that I know very well. Yesterday was the inaugural run of this race, and so much was learned by the race officials. There was not as much glow stuff as Electric Run, but this was also a local organization putting on a race, not a national group who travels around the country. For their first time out, this was perfect. Actually, I liked this one much more than Electric Run. While there was so much more to look at during Electric Run, the course is flat and boring. Glow Run was lacking in visual stimulation, but the path was fun and could be viewed as challenging for those on their first 5K. Small hills, uneven terrain, bridges, narrow pathways, but it was fun because it was not flat the entire time. I don't mind a flat half marathon, but I do like a 5K with some elevation changes.
Chewy and I decided that we would give it our all. We ran and walked the entire race. I did not know how well I would hold up on the running, but I did great! Chewy is in the middle of soccer season, so is in rather decent shape. I, not so much, yet I still walk a fair amount regularly. We figure that our 5Ks are going to start becoming more of a running type thing with less walking the more and more we do them. I am excited about this. I did not start the half marathon adventures with the intention of becoming a runner, but this is a perk.
I am not sure that we will have any other 5Ks together this year. I will say that Everett is in exactly 3 weeks! I am feeling good about it, although nervous. I have not done a half since June, and so I feel a little less prepared than I should. This will be great for me though as it will show me where I need to improve for the Seattle a month later.
Still taking suggestions for my birthday race :)
Glow Run was held in my hometown and starts in downtown. The route was one that I do frequently with friends as it cuts through the center of town, through a university campus, and along a river. It is a busy trail, but one that I know very well. Yesterday was the inaugural run of this race, and so much was learned by the race officials. There was not as much glow stuff as Electric Run, but this was also a local organization putting on a race, not a national group who travels around the country. For their first time out, this was perfect. Actually, I liked this one much more than Electric Run. While there was so much more to look at during Electric Run, the course is flat and boring. Glow Run was lacking in visual stimulation, but the path was fun and could be viewed as challenging for those on their first 5K. Small hills, uneven terrain, bridges, narrow pathways, but it was fun because it was not flat the entire time. I don't mind a flat half marathon, but I do like a 5K with some elevation changes.
Chewy and I decided that we would give it our all. We ran and walked the entire race. I did not know how well I would hold up on the running, but I did great! Chewy is in the middle of soccer season, so is in rather decent shape. I, not so much, yet I still walk a fair amount regularly. We figure that our 5Ks are going to start becoming more of a running type thing with less walking the more and more we do them. I am excited about this. I did not start the half marathon adventures with the intention of becoming a runner, but this is a perk.
I am not sure that we will have any other 5Ks together this year. I will say that Everett is in exactly 3 weeks! I am feeling good about it, although nervous. I have not done a half since June, and so I feel a little less prepared than I should. This will be great for me though as it will show me where I need to improve for the Seattle a month later.
Still taking suggestions for my birthday race :)
Sunday, September 7, 2014
One Year Post First Half
September 2nd, 2014 came and went this year. For some people, this date marked the first day of school for their children. For others, it was just a Tuesday. For me, this was the one year anniversary of me doing my first half marathon.
I can remember the excitement leading up to this race, you know, for the whole four days leading up to it because I decided at the last minute to do it. I still wear those Keens, five year old sandals with no tread left, faded coloring, and very little cushion. If these sandals were tires, they would no longer be street legal. I still remember the heat of the race, dreadful and humid. But I also remember the heart: I finish what I started, and 13.1 miles later, no matter the time, I would be a half marathoner.
One year later, five half marathons under my belt from three different states. Shaving off time left and right. My determination is still there, but more so than ever. I still know that I will do a full marathon some day, but for now, the half half is the perfect distance and one I feel that I need to conquer even more!
I can remember the excitement leading up to this race, you know, for the whole four days leading up to it because I decided at the last minute to do it. I still wear those Keens, five year old sandals with no tread left, faded coloring, and very little cushion. If these sandals were tires, they would no longer be street legal. I still remember the heat of the race, dreadful and humid. But I also remember the heart: I finish what I started, and 13.1 miles later, no matter the time, I would be a half marathoner.
One year later, five half marathons under my belt from three different states. Shaving off time left and right. My determination is still there, but more so than ever. I still know that I will do a full marathon some day, but for now, the half half is the perfect distance and one I feel that I need to conquer even more!
Summer Slacking
So much going on, and so little typing. My last half was the Seattle Rock n Roll. My walking slowed down some due to taking some highly accelerated courses this summer, handling Chewy's softball schedule, and the blazing heat wave we had that made most days unbearable! But I did do a couple 5Ks to keep the summer fun.
Dirty Dash 2014 was great. I had done this race last year, in much worse shape than I am in now. How do I know I am in better shape? I was able to handle some of the obstacles with ease compared to last summer. We went as a group, and joined another group as well. Such a wonderful bit of fun for us, and a reminder to me that I am doing well to keep moving.
Electric Run 2014 was also a repeat. I had done this race with Chewy, and we decided to go for it again. This course is flat and easy for anyone, no training required. The glowing surroundings were not as extravagant as last summer's display, but we still had a wonderful time. I could see myself jogging this race in the future. This race was the first 5K a friend of ours had ever done. We were very proud of him and his accomplishment. I also bought a brand new pair of shoes for myself the day of this race, using this race as a way of knowing if I liked the shoes for sure or not. I like my shoes!
So what is on the race docket? Glow Run is a 5K in my own town that is happening soon. I will be taking part in this race, with or without Chewy, but I will be joined by a friend. In addition, my half marathon schedule is starting to pick up. I am currently registered for the Seattle Half Marathon in November. I am also looking at doing a half in Everett in October. I was going to do the Spokane Half in October, but they have such a small group doing the race that I do not see this as a positive experience for me. I have learned that I enjoy the larger races. I feed off of people around me as participants or cheering. On another positive, the lady I met in Phoenix is doing the race in Everett, so we can meet again.
I am also taking suggestions for a March race. I feel that the birthday race needs to be tradition. It was a beautiful way to honor myself, and the changing of the seasons from Winter into Spring.
Dirty Dash 2014 was great. I had done this race last year, in much worse shape than I am in now. How do I know I am in better shape? I was able to handle some of the obstacles with ease compared to last summer. We went as a group, and joined another group as well. Such a wonderful bit of fun for us, and a reminder to me that I am doing well to keep moving.
Electric Run 2014 was also a repeat. I had done this race with Chewy, and we decided to go for it again. This course is flat and easy for anyone, no training required. The glowing surroundings were not as extravagant as last summer's display, but we still had a wonderful time. I could see myself jogging this race in the future. This race was the first 5K a friend of ours had ever done. We were very proud of him and his accomplishment. I also bought a brand new pair of shoes for myself the day of this race, using this race as a way of knowing if I liked the shoes for sure or not. I like my shoes!
So what is on the race docket? Glow Run is a 5K in my own town that is happening soon. I will be taking part in this race, with or without Chewy, but I will be joined by a friend. In addition, my half marathon schedule is starting to pick up. I am currently registered for the Seattle Half Marathon in November. I am also looking at doing a half in Everett in October. I was going to do the Spokane Half in October, but they have such a small group doing the race that I do not see this as a positive experience for me. I have learned that I enjoy the larger races. I feed off of people around me as participants or cheering. On another positive, the lady I met in Phoenix is doing the race in Everett, so we can meet again.
I am also taking suggestions for a March race. I feel that the birthday race needs to be tradition. It was a beautiful way to honor myself, and the changing of the seasons from Winter into Spring.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Turning Down a Race
Wait, WHAT! Is the title of this really true? In fact it is. There is a half in my hometown tomorrow morning and I am turning it down. But why you might ask? Honestly, the medal.
I guess I should preface this with, I do not abstain from alcohol. I don't drink often, but I do enjoy a nice stout, a glass of dry red wine, or whipped vodka in pomegranate San Pelagrino on occasion. But when the half marathon medal is an overpriced beer bottle opener, I have to reevaluate my personal ethics.
I do half marathons for fun, and the health benefit is also a perk. Doing a long distance races are not an easy feat, even if it looks like it because I have done so many in a short period of time. I feel like this is a time to respect the hours of training, the careful attention to diet, and the dedication on both the mental and physical end to make it to the finish line. Each one of my medals was earned, and I proudly display them in my home so that anyone who walks in can see my accomplishments. The last thing I want is to taint this display with a beer bottle opener.
There is no mistaking this medal to be an opener. Outside of that part, it is a beautiful medal. It highlights some iconic places that are in a beautiful major park we have here in town. I would love to be able to have such a nice medal, minus the opener. In addition, this half is associated with a 5K. All participants in the 5K and the half, regardless of age and distance will receive this medal. Even Chewy would receive this same medal. What does an 11 year old need a bottle opener for? She doesn't even drink soda! While I could just get some metal cutters and cut off this portion, now I have deface my medal that I earned through sweat, some more sweat, and no tears, but maybe a blister.
Hopping off my soap box. I know it is a trivial complaint. I am happy to wait for another race in my town that does not contain a bottle opener as the main prize. Especially with the registration price so high, I can buy 100 bottle openers at the dollar store and still cover tax.
I guess I should preface this with, I do not abstain from alcohol. I don't drink often, but I do enjoy a nice stout, a glass of dry red wine, or whipped vodka in pomegranate San Pelagrino on occasion. But when the half marathon medal is an overpriced beer bottle opener, I have to reevaluate my personal ethics.
I do half marathons for fun, and the health benefit is also a perk. Doing a long distance races are not an easy feat, even if it looks like it because I have done so many in a short period of time. I feel like this is a time to respect the hours of training, the careful attention to diet, and the dedication on both the mental and physical end to make it to the finish line. Each one of my medals was earned, and I proudly display them in my home so that anyone who walks in can see my accomplishments. The last thing I want is to taint this display with a beer bottle opener.
There is no mistaking this medal to be an opener. Outside of that part, it is a beautiful medal. It highlights some iconic places that are in a beautiful major park we have here in town. I would love to be able to have such a nice medal, minus the opener. In addition, this half is associated with a 5K. All participants in the 5K and the half, regardless of age and distance will receive this medal. Even Chewy would receive this same medal. What does an 11 year old need a bottle opener for? She doesn't even drink soda! While I could just get some metal cutters and cut off this portion, now I have deface my medal that I earned through sweat, some more sweat, and no tears, but maybe a blister.
Hopping off my soap box. I know it is a trivial complaint. I am happy to wait for another race in my town that does not contain a bottle opener as the main prize. Especially with the registration price so high, I can buy 100 bottle openers at the dollar store and still cover tax.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
The Surprise 5th Half Marathon: Recap
My plans have been all over the place since the CDA Half in May. I was going to do the Windermere Half the weekend after the CDA, but with Chewy in soccer tournaments and her schedule so erratic, it didn't happen. Then I figured I would rest, do a lot of 5ks, and anything else until this fall when I plan to do more halves. That was until Chewy needed to go to Seattle for a job shadow, and everything changed.
The Seattle Rock n Roll was a race that has peaked my interest, and I considered it a goal. I needed to complete it under 4 hours as that is the race regulation time limit. I know that I complete halves around 4 hours, so it is possible, even if it is just barely. Cost was also a factor for me as the Rock n Rolls tend to be pricy. I had decided that I would save up and do this race next year, until I realized that I was already in Seattle the same weekend as this race. The universe was screaming at me, and so was my 11 year old cheerleader: DO IT!!! And so I did. This is how the surprise half marathon #5 came to be.
The Seattle Rock n Roll has many similarities to the Seattle Half. I still got to go down the I90 express ways. I still ventured through downtown. I was still racing in a city I love. This time we spent more time south than north, and I also ventured along the 99 next to the waterfront area. The amount of spectators were fewer in this race, but still many to keep one motivated. The part I loved had to do with all the bands. I lost count of how many groups were providing musical entertainment! This made the Seattle RnR one of my favorites.
A 7am start time at the Space Needle reminded me of December's half. This race began in waves. Being that I did not register until the last possible minute, I was in the group at the very back. I crossed the starting line 59 minutes after the first people started. I did not like this part, but it would be fine. I told myself that no matter what, I would finish by Noon. We followed the monorail track along 5th Avenue in downtown, ventured into the International District, and then began to move east for a bit until our long venture south. On this stretch, I was able to see a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier in the distance. Unfortunately for you, my picture taking was not as frequent during this race as it has been in the past, and the ones of the mountain did not come out well.
After our tour of the south end, we started a short trek east to the edge of Lake Washington. We ventured north along the lake and came to a steep portion which would be the worst of all the hills on this race. For me, the hill was fine, and no worse than 3 flights of stairs. At the top of this hill was the I90 express way. I really do find it nice to say I have gone down the freeway on foot, and without a car mishap. This is also where I met a fellow half marathoner who was very clearly slamming into "The Wall" with full force. This was her first race, she was walking it alone as her family had long finished. She was somewhat prepared, but not as much as she had hoped. I pushed her along for the next mile or so encouraging her to keep going. In the end, I did pass her, but she was frequently running to catch up to me, and would fall back again to her own pace. I knew we would not be doing the race together, but I am glad I could be there to help her past that hump. Everyone needs a cheerleader!
My own wall was not hit until mile 11. This was surprising to me in some ways, and not in others. I figured since I never hit it earlier on that it would never come. I do know that I came into this race ill prepared. I hadn't been eating well. I knew I was dehydrated. We won't even discuss that lack of breakfast I had that morning, and that two bananas and a goo were carrying me through the race. For what it was, I was doing great! The wall was short lived for me, and as soon as I saw the mile 12 sign, I was recharged and ready to finish strong.
Through the 99 tunnel, around the corner, down the under the bridge, back up the small hill, and across the finish line. All to the tune of: 3:48:58! YES! Under four hours. Four minutes faster than CDA, and before Noon! I did it! I was very proud of myself. And to think, I wasn't planning on doing this race until the last minute.
I do not know what my next race will be. There is one in my hometown in 11 days. I am thinking about doing it to say I have finally done something here. I am also doing two this fall: Spokane and Seattle half marathons. But until I decide anything, here is a very proud moment for me. Five half marathons in 10 months! I never would have imagined it would have turned into this!
The Seattle Rock n Roll was a race that has peaked my interest, and I considered it a goal. I needed to complete it under 4 hours as that is the race regulation time limit. I know that I complete halves around 4 hours, so it is possible, even if it is just barely. Cost was also a factor for me as the Rock n Rolls tend to be pricy. I had decided that I would save up and do this race next year, until I realized that I was already in Seattle the same weekend as this race. The universe was screaming at me, and so was my 11 year old cheerleader: DO IT!!! And so I did. This is how the surprise half marathon #5 came to be.
The Seattle Rock n Roll has many similarities to the Seattle Half. I still got to go down the I90 express ways. I still ventured through downtown. I was still racing in a city I love. This time we spent more time south than north, and I also ventured along the 99 next to the waterfront area. The amount of spectators were fewer in this race, but still many to keep one motivated. The part I loved had to do with all the bands. I lost count of how many groups were providing musical entertainment! This made the Seattle RnR one of my favorites.
A 7am start time at the Space Needle reminded me of December's half. This race began in waves. Being that I did not register until the last possible minute, I was in the group at the very back. I crossed the starting line 59 minutes after the first people started. I did not like this part, but it would be fine. I told myself that no matter what, I would finish by Noon. We followed the monorail track along 5th Avenue in downtown, ventured into the International District, and then began to move east for a bit until our long venture south. On this stretch, I was able to see a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier in the distance. Unfortunately for you, my picture taking was not as frequent during this race as it has been in the past, and the ones of the mountain did not come out well.
After our tour of the south end, we started a short trek east to the edge of Lake Washington. We ventured north along the lake and came to a steep portion which would be the worst of all the hills on this race. For me, the hill was fine, and no worse than 3 flights of stairs. At the top of this hill was the I90 express way. I really do find it nice to say I have gone down the freeway on foot, and without a car mishap. This is also where I met a fellow half marathoner who was very clearly slamming into "The Wall" with full force. This was her first race, she was walking it alone as her family had long finished. She was somewhat prepared, but not as much as she had hoped. I pushed her along for the next mile or so encouraging her to keep going. In the end, I did pass her, but she was frequently running to catch up to me, and would fall back again to her own pace. I knew we would not be doing the race together, but I am glad I could be there to help her past that hump. Everyone needs a cheerleader!
My own wall was not hit until mile 11. This was surprising to me in some ways, and not in others. I figured since I never hit it earlier on that it would never come. I do know that I came into this race ill prepared. I hadn't been eating well. I knew I was dehydrated. We won't even discuss that lack of breakfast I had that morning, and that two bananas and a goo were carrying me through the race. For what it was, I was doing great! The wall was short lived for me, and as soon as I saw the mile 12 sign, I was recharged and ready to finish strong.
Through the 99 tunnel, around the corner, down the under the bridge, back up the small hill, and across the finish line. All to the tune of: 3:48:58! YES! Under four hours. Four minutes faster than CDA, and before Noon! I did it! I was very proud of myself. And to think, I wasn't planning on doing this race until the last minute.
I do not know what my next race will be. There is one in my hometown in 11 days. I am thinking about doing it to say I have finally done something here. I am also doing two this fall: Spokane and Seattle half marathons. But until I decide anything, here is a very proud moment for me. Five half marathons in 10 months! I never would have imagined it would have turned into this!
Monday, May 26, 2014
And the Rainbow Flies Again: CDA Half Marathon Recap
I have slacked on my blogging, but not on my walking. The Coeur d'Alene Half Marathon was yesterday. I was nervous at first, but this race was proof that I have been gaining much more endurance than I ever imagined. I also came out of this race with many friends, encouragement for the future, and so much more!
This race was very different than the last two I have done. It was tiny! Such a small field of participants: full marathoners, half marathoners, and 5Kers. Just under two thousand participants total, where the other two have over 10,000. Also interesting about this race, and discouraging was that the course was an out and back. This means you go so far out on the course, and then turn around and come back the same way you came. As a half, this wasn't so bad. But the full marathoners had to do the same loop twice. Let me just say now, when the time comes for me to do a full, this will NOT be the race I will do unless the course is changed. The nice part was that my partner was joining me again for a half marathon. You will recall that we did the first one together.
We arrived to the race a little later than I had liked thanks to my lead foot and some radar gun that was unfortunately positioned in my way. I was a bit excited to head to this race. Oops! We found parking right at the starting/finish line, and got lined up ready to head out. Once again I was wearing the rainbow flag. As Idaho recently issued a stay on the verdict on the ban of same sex marriage being unconstitutional, and the case will go to court in September, I felt it was appropriate to show visibility again. Many high 5's, and words of encouragement were shared at the starting line and along the course.
As I complain a lot about this course I must admit, it really is beautiful! Most of the race is along the east edge of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Thankfully it was not so hot yet that the humidity was kept at bay. I am a total water lover, so as I was going I kept imagining myself in a kayak enjoying the water. I have done that through this area of the lake with much enjoyment. Sadly, I do not own a kayak now, and race registrations take away from the chance of owning one soon. While I do not like out and backs, this one was filled with nature that kept me engaged.
We met a lot of people along the course. The purple people were marathoners, and requested that they take a picture with us. The interesting thing is that one of the purple people knew a friend of ours who met us along the course! Small world.
I also met another woman named Linda. She has been through her own extensive journey to get to this point. Her husband, friend, and her were always neck and neck with us. Sometimes we would be ahead, and sometimes, they would pass us. Every time Linda would go to pass us, I would speed up with her. She would walk faster, as would I. She would jog, as would I. Kendra would stay and talk to her husband. This was her first half marathon, and I am so happy she is able to do them :)
As for my race, it was great! I had a pre-race meal of a banana and peanut butter which seemed to be working very well for me. I ate a banana around mile 8 as I figured I should do so as I never did eat it at mile 5 like normal. I never tortured myself with goo. I learned that HEED is a decent electrolyte drink, so long as it is not the strawberry flavor. I learned that I like going uphill compared to downhill. I learned that I could run, and run much longer than just 10 seconds at a time. I also learned that I really like a little competition. The ladies with the black pants and skirts were never going to pass me again. The other ladies that we met and were also neck and neck with were not going to pass me at the end. And when you bond with someone and see them dropping in mile 12, you don't care about your own time, you make sure they are okay because if they aren't, you are going to be carrying them across that finish line no matter what! I also learned that I get in a zone.
A friend of ours met us in mile 12. I realized how unfriendly I am when in a race. Not intentional, but I was not my normal self. I was on a mission to finish. I was focused and driven. Once I crossed the finish line, received my medal, and had a moment to relish in the moment of knowing I had completed another race, I looked at my friend and explain, "Okay, now I can be me!" Lucky for me, she understood. I never realized how much of a difference from race me and normal me there really is until now.
And for my time...I dropped more time: 3:52:33
I got under 4! I was thrilled with myself! Kendra was thrilled to have done her second race. I was thankful for everyone who was there to cheer us on. But now it was time to cheer on Linda and her crew.
I talked to the people handing out medals. They allowed me to hand Linda her's, and Kendra handed Linda's husband his. She made it! She is a half marathoner! She helped push me, and I learned that I helped push her. Some pictures of us all taken, a sharing of contact information, and a desire to do this together again was all had.
We also took pictures with the two people that were also neck and neck with us that I wasn't going to let pass at the end. They, too, wish to do this again with us. It was like we were making half marathon family as we went. As small as this race was, the energy was so high, and the support was even more grand than could ever be expected.
Stay tuned for Wednesday when I will announce my next race. If things go as I hope, and I throw caution to the wind, it might be much sooner than anyone expects.
This race was very different than the last two I have done. It was tiny! Such a small field of participants: full marathoners, half marathoners, and 5Kers. Just under two thousand participants total, where the other two have over 10,000. Also interesting about this race, and discouraging was that the course was an out and back. This means you go so far out on the course, and then turn around and come back the same way you came. As a half, this wasn't so bad. But the full marathoners had to do the same loop twice. Let me just say now, when the time comes for me to do a full, this will NOT be the race I will do unless the course is changed. The nice part was that my partner was joining me again for a half marathon. You will recall that we did the first one together.
We arrived to the race a little later than I had liked thanks to my lead foot and some radar gun that was unfortunately positioned in my way. I was a bit excited to head to this race. Oops! We found parking right at the starting/finish line, and got lined up ready to head out. Once again I was wearing the rainbow flag. As Idaho recently issued a stay on the verdict on the ban of same sex marriage being unconstitutional, and the case will go to court in September, I felt it was appropriate to show visibility again. Many high 5's, and words of encouragement were shared at the starting line and along the course.
As I complain a lot about this course I must admit, it really is beautiful! Most of the race is along the east edge of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Thankfully it was not so hot yet that the humidity was kept at bay. I am a total water lover, so as I was going I kept imagining myself in a kayak enjoying the water. I have done that through this area of the lake with much enjoyment. Sadly, I do not own a kayak now, and race registrations take away from the chance of owning one soon. While I do not like out and backs, this one was filled with nature that kept me engaged.
We met a lot of people along the course. The purple people were marathoners, and requested that they take a picture with us. The interesting thing is that one of the purple people knew a friend of ours who met us along the course! Small world.
I also met another woman named Linda. She has been through her own extensive journey to get to this point. Her husband, friend, and her were always neck and neck with us. Sometimes we would be ahead, and sometimes, they would pass us. Every time Linda would go to pass us, I would speed up with her. She would walk faster, as would I. She would jog, as would I. Kendra would stay and talk to her husband. This was her first half marathon, and I am so happy she is able to do them :)
As for my race, it was great! I had a pre-race meal of a banana and peanut butter which seemed to be working very well for me. I ate a banana around mile 8 as I figured I should do so as I never did eat it at mile 5 like normal. I never tortured myself with goo. I learned that HEED is a decent electrolyte drink, so long as it is not the strawberry flavor. I learned that I like going uphill compared to downhill. I learned that I could run, and run much longer than just 10 seconds at a time. I also learned that I really like a little competition. The ladies with the black pants and skirts were never going to pass me again. The other ladies that we met and were also neck and neck with were not going to pass me at the end. And when you bond with someone and see them dropping in mile 12, you don't care about your own time, you make sure they are okay because if they aren't, you are going to be carrying them across that finish line no matter what! I also learned that I get in a zone.
A friend of ours met us in mile 12. I realized how unfriendly I am when in a race. Not intentional, but I was not my normal self. I was on a mission to finish. I was focused and driven. Once I crossed the finish line, received my medal, and had a moment to relish in the moment of knowing I had completed another race, I looked at my friend and explain, "Okay, now I can be me!" Lucky for me, she understood. I never realized how much of a difference from race me and normal me there really is until now.
And for my time...I dropped more time: 3:52:33
I got under 4! I was thrilled with myself! Kendra was thrilled to have done her second race. I was thankful for everyone who was there to cheer us on. But now it was time to cheer on Linda and her crew.
I talked to the people handing out medals. They allowed me to hand Linda her's, and Kendra handed Linda's husband his. She made it! She is a half marathoner! She helped push me, and I learned that I helped push her. Some pictures of us all taken, a sharing of contact information, and a desire to do this together again was all had.
We also took pictures with the two people that were also neck and neck with us that I wasn't going to let pass at the end. They, too, wish to do this again with us. It was like we were making half marathon family as we went. As small as this race was, the energy was so high, and the support was even more grand than could ever be expected.
Stay tuned for Wednesday when I will announce my next race. If things go as I hope, and I throw caution to the wind, it might be much sooner than anyone expects.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Bloomsday Recap
On Sunday was a 12K in my city, and I was blessed to have my partner and Chewy join me for it. Great time had by the three of us. This was technically Chewy's second 12K, but her first done on her own two feet, and her longest race to date. She did great, and as you will read, is already making plans. As for me, this was my 8th time doing this race. It was much better this time around compared to my last Bloomsday experience with the broken stroller.
The time was 745am, and it is well known in my town that Bloomsday means 50,000+ runners take over the streets of downtown, and then wind their way around the west side of the city. This also means that roads are closed, parking is horrible, and if you can take mass transit, you should! We opted to take the city bus which was running a special from a mall near us to the race starting point. This started to feel a lot like Phoenix since I took a bus there, but this time it was sunny and warm, and I wasn't being dropped off at the edge of a desert.
Bloomsday has a staggered start. The wheelchairs leave before 9am. Elite runners leave at 9am. Everyone else just starts in 10 minute intervals for about an hour or so after the elite. By the time we started, the elite runners were crossing the finish line. I will not be running a 12K in 34 minutes, and I am just fine with that. But they really are amazing to watch. We did get to see the awards ceremony, and it was so interesting to hear the accomplishments of these runners.
This is the race that reminded me of how much more training I need to do with hills. I have gotten a little lazy with hill work. Spokane is a tough place to race because of all the hills, and Bloomsday has its fair share of them including one hill lovingly called Doomsday. It is a 3/4 mile climb! Guess where I will be spending more time. But one of the best parts of this race was at the bottom of this hill. A woman filled a wagon with bananas of every color (some green, some yellow, some browning), and was selling them for $1 each. The top of the hill is the 5 mile mark, and if you have kept up with me, you know I eat a banana at 5 miles. $3 later, we each were munching on this quick energy source, and Chewy was expressing how grand it was to have this. Perfect bit of energy before tackling this hill. On this hill, we found Waldo...
This is somewhere along Mile 6. Clearly Chewy is similar to her mother, always smiling in race photos.
Aside from the hills, this race was easy for me. Short distance which didn't leave me feeling worn out at the end, or even through the rest of the day. Good reminder of what I need to work on. Excellent way for me to evaluate what I need to do for my next race. And most of all, it reminded me about my need for people. Bloomsday has such a large community following here. People throw parties at their homes just to cheer on runners. Chewy also commented on how she enjoyed the community support. She found it energizing and encouraging. As tired as she was (double header soccer games the day before, plus everything else soccer and running related during the week), she was able to keep going thanks to the crowds.
The time: 2:21:09. 18:55 mile.
Perfect! Not so slow that it was dreadful. Not so fast that I was exhausted. No soreness. Great pace as we just followed Chewy's lead and she was worn out before the race ever started. If I was to keep that same pace, a half would be completed in my normal 4 hours and a couple minutes time. I consider Bloomsday a success. Chewy is already asking that we make this a family tradition every spring. I suspect that we will jog some of it in future years. Medals are not given after this race, but we do get lovely shirts.
So what is the future plan of racing? Chewy and I have a couple 5Ks this summer. But the next race for me is in...
18 Days for the CDA Half.
The time was 745am, and it is well known in my town that Bloomsday means 50,000+ runners take over the streets of downtown, and then wind their way around the west side of the city. This also means that roads are closed, parking is horrible, and if you can take mass transit, you should! We opted to take the city bus which was running a special from a mall near us to the race starting point. This started to feel a lot like Phoenix since I took a bus there, but this time it was sunny and warm, and I wasn't being dropped off at the edge of a desert.
Bloomsday has a staggered start. The wheelchairs leave before 9am. Elite runners leave at 9am. Everyone else just starts in 10 minute intervals for about an hour or so after the elite. By the time we started, the elite runners were crossing the finish line. I will not be running a 12K in 34 minutes, and I am just fine with that. But they really are amazing to watch. We did get to see the awards ceremony, and it was so interesting to hear the accomplishments of these runners.This is the race that reminded me of how much more training I need to do with hills. I have gotten a little lazy with hill work. Spokane is a tough place to race because of all the hills, and Bloomsday has its fair share of them including one hill lovingly called Doomsday. It is a 3/4 mile climb! Guess where I will be spending more time. But one of the best parts of this race was at the bottom of this hill. A woman filled a wagon with bananas of every color (some green, some yellow, some browning), and was selling them for $1 each. The top of the hill is the 5 mile mark, and if you have kept up with me, you know I eat a banana at 5 miles. $3 later, we each were munching on this quick energy source, and Chewy was expressing how grand it was to have this. Perfect bit of energy before tackling this hill. On this hill, we found Waldo...
This is somewhere along Mile 6. Clearly Chewy is similar to her mother, always smiling in race photos.
Aside from the hills, this race was easy for me. Short distance which didn't leave me feeling worn out at the end, or even through the rest of the day. Good reminder of what I need to work on. Excellent way for me to evaluate what I need to do for my next race. And most of all, it reminded me about my need for people. Bloomsday has such a large community following here. People throw parties at their homes just to cheer on runners. Chewy also commented on how she enjoyed the community support. She found it energizing and encouraging. As tired as she was (double header soccer games the day before, plus everything else soccer and running related during the week), she was able to keep going thanks to the crowds.
The time: 2:21:09. 18:55 mile.
Perfect! Not so slow that it was dreadful. Not so fast that I was exhausted. No soreness. Great pace as we just followed Chewy's lead and she was worn out before the race ever started. If I was to keep that same pace, a half would be completed in my normal 4 hours and a couple minutes time. I consider Bloomsday a success. Chewy is already asking that we make this a family tradition every spring. I suspect that we will jog some of it in future years. Medals are not given after this race, but we do get lovely shirts.So what is the future plan of racing? Chewy and I have a couple 5Ks this summer. But the next race for me is in...
18 Days for the CDA Half.
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Donations Requested for Special Olympics
You see, the Special Olympics has always been very near and dear to Kendra's heart. She has spent a lot of time working with people who live with special needs of all sorts. Even during her youth, she was often volunteering her time to assist others that are often overlooked by society. During my recovery from knee surgery, she was the main person who helped make sure my needs were met. When Kendra first heard about this fundraiser a few years ago, she was not in a position to attempt the rappel. Today is a different story. She is ready and willing. And with a $25 donation from me to secure her spot, she now has a chance to really make this happen.
What I am asking is that you look into your hearts, and your wallets, and consider donating to her cause. $650 is what it takes for one athlete to have training, equipment, and competition through the Special Olympics for one year. $650 is what Kendra must raise to be able to rappel off the 20 story building. I hate heights! I will take pictures from the safety of the ground below. But for Kendra, this is exciting, and for a wonderful cause. Every little bit adds up, and will go to support an athlete and their dreams.
Click here to support Kendra and the Special Olympics of Washington.
Kendra's rappel date is Friday June 27th.
Thank you!
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Tai Chi and Race Weekend
It has been an interesting month. Lots of walking, but not much mileage counting. I know I have done very well: walking with friends, during soccer practices, along a beach during a weekend getaway. I cannot complain. It has also been nice to see that spring is in full force, which also means allergies are rearing their ugly head. So far, I have been okay.
I have been taken under the wing of a professor at a local community college. I actually took his class many years ago as an online course, and didn't get much out of it. He lets me sit in on his lecture class now, has talked to me about guest lecturing later this term, and really, is a generally nice person with so much knowledge! Today I was invited to his tai chi workshop. Well, as you should already know, I never say no to trying something new, except I will say no to jumping out of an airplane.
Tai chi has been something I have been interested in but never tried. Yoga was not a positive experience. To me, I felt like I was just supposed to hold poses, breathe, and clear my mind. I think of everything else that I could be doing, even if all I could be doing is napping. Tai chi was just as relaxing and breathing focused, but I was continually moving. I liked it! A lot! I actually found myself very centered, and could easily ignore all that was going on around me. Considering I was in a loud student union building of an area college during a busy time, and my mind is usually always going, this says quite a bit. I need to look into doing this more often. I see this as a healthy self relaxation exercise that I can do anywhere. And how it seemed to center me throughout the rest of my day was fantastic. I didn't know what I was doing, but it felt good. The next workshop is in a little over a week, and you can be sure that I will be there. One thing I can say is that I am a little sore now. I think part of that might have to do with the fact I had a massage today. The other part I feel is that I used muscles I am always using, but in a different manner. This is good sore though, and I suspect that by morning, I will be wanting to do some sort of exercise, but I need to rest.
This Sunday is a race for me. Chewy is doing her longest race on her own two feet and joining me on a 12K. She does 5Ks with ease, but wanted to try this race. We did it back when she was 3, and I pushed her in a stroller. Yeah, not such a grand experience. It was fun, even if the stroller was broken and I was horribly out of shape. Now I am in a much better place. I am also curious how Chewy will do. I plan to just walk her pace, and really do not care how long it takes us. We will also have several friends joining us. This race is known to attract 50,000 or so participants from all over the world. I know that Chewy has been doing the training that her school offers, plus is in the world of soccer, so she will do great. This is also a good race for me since I have my next half at the end of the month. Or really, it will just remind me that I need to practice walking in heat more often.
12K with Chewy and friends: 3 Days
CDA Half Marathon: 24 Days
I have been taken under the wing of a professor at a local community college. I actually took his class many years ago as an online course, and didn't get much out of it. He lets me sit in on his lecture class now, has talked to me about guest lecturing later this term, and really, is a generally nice person with so much knowledge! Today I was invited to his tai chi workshop. Well, as you should already know, I never say no to trying something new, except I will say no to jumping out of an airplane.
Tai chi has been something I have been interested in but never tried. Yoga was not a positive experience. To me, I felt like I was just supposed to hold poses, breathe, and clear my mind. I think of everything else that I could be doing, even if all I could be doing is napping. Tai chi was just as relaxing and breathing focused, but I was continually moving. I liked it! A lot! I actually found myself very centered, and could easily ignore all that was going on around me. Considering I was in a loud student union building of an area college during a busy time, and my mind is usually always going, this says quite a bit. I need to look into doing this more often. I see this as a healthy self relaxation exercise that I can do anywhere. And how it seemed to center me throughout the rest of my day was fantastic. I didn't know what I was doing, but it felt good. The next workshop is in a little over a week, and you can be sure that I will be there. One thing I can say is that I am a little sore now. I think part of that might have to do with the fact I had a massage today. The other part I feel is that I used muscles I am always using, but in a different manner. This is good sore though, and I suspect that by morning, I will be wanting to do some sort of exercise, but I need to rest.
This Sunday is a race for me. Chewy is doing her longest race on her own two feet and joining me on a 12K. She does 5Ks with ease, but wanted to try this race. We did it back when she was 3, and I pushed her in a stroller. Yeah, not such a grand experience. It was fun, even if the stroller was broken and I was horribly out of shape. Now I am in a much better place. I am also curious how Chewy will do. I plan to just walk her pace, and really do not care how long it takes us. We will also have several friends joining us. This race is known to attract 50,000 or so participants from all over the world. I know that Chewy has been doing the training that her school offers, plus is in the world of soccer, so she will do great. This is also a good race for me since I have my next half at the end of the month. Or really, it will just remind me that I need to practice walking in heat more often.
12K with Chewy and friends: 3 Days
CDA Half Marathon: 24 Days
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
A Different View of Me
I typically only write about my halves or training, but it is not everyday that an organization writes a blog about your personal journey on a different level. This has happened to me. I have been blessed in my educational process to receive scholarships to help offset the cost of my schooling. I cannot thank the organizations and donors enough for their generosity, nor can I thank the people who have written my letters of recommendation, and believed in me during the times I didn't believe in myself. For me, I cannot wait to be on the donor side of the process and help others with their educational dreams.
One organization that has helped me in my schooling is the Greater Seattle Business Association. We have established that I do not live in Seattle, but this organization helps students from all over Washington State. As an older, non-traditional student I was discouraged in the scholarship process as I found that so many were for students freshly out of high school or in their 20's. Being 30 when I began my college experience, I rejoiced when I received notice from this organization that I was selected as a person of interest and needed to be willing to interview. Stumbling on my words, wondering why me compared to so many other worthy candidates, and beyond nervous, I presented to my first interview with this organization and was awarded a scholarship that year. I remember the call when I was told I would be awarded a scholarship, and that there was an awards ceremony to attend later in the month. I hung up the phone, screamed a happy scream, bounced around my living room, and maybe broke a speeding law or two on my way to class that day. I couldn't believe it! I work hard. I can always work harder. But I felt like I was old, and had nothing on the other 40+ students who were awarded that same year. I wasn't doing the huge things that many of the youth surrounding me were doing. How was I, just some single mom who spends time in the non-profit sector of her town, just as worthy? After several years, connections I have made within the organization, and growth of myself, I realize something. The GSBA sees my dream as something I truly can achieve. I have had a rough go when it has come to school. Illness, surgeries, unstable housing, and that is not counting the difficulties of being a single parent, have all plagued me. The GSBA was there to support me and believe in me, even when I was not able to do so for myself. I have seen this organization as one who supports the whole student, not just those who have the perfect 4.0. I have gotten the emails and phone calls checking up on me during times of struggle. I have made friends with other scholars. I have received encouragement in all areas of life, not just academics. I have been inducted into another family. For this, I thank them immensely and will forever feel a sense of gratitude for seeing me as a worthy investment over the years.
If you are interested in the blog by GSBA, please click here.
If you are curious about who GSBA is and how you can help support students and their dreams, please click here.
33 Days until Bloomsday
54 Days until CDA Half Marathon
One organization that has helped me in my schooling is the Greater Seattle Business Association. We have established that I do not live in Seattle, but this organization helps students from all over Washington State. As an older, non-traditional student I was discouraged in the scholarship process as I found that so many were for students freshly out of high school or in their 20's. Being 30 when I began my college experience, I rejoiced when I received notice from this organization that I was selected as a person of interest and needed to be willing to interview. Stumbling on my words, wondering why me compared to so many other worthy candidates, and beyond nervous, I presented to my first interview with this organization and was awarded a scholarship that year. I remember the call when I was told I would be awarded a scholarship, and that there was an awards ceremony to attend later in the month. I hung up the phone, screamed a happy scream, bounced around my living room, and maybe broke a speeding law or two on my way to class that day. I couldn't believe it! I work hard. I can always work harder. But I felt like I was old, and had nothing on the other 40+ students who were awarded that same year. I wasn't doing the huge things that many of the youth surrounding me were doing. How was I, just some single mom who spends time in the non-profit sector of her town, just as worthy? After several years, connections I have made within the organization, and growth of myself, I realize something. The GSBA sees my dream as something I truly can achieve. I have had a rough go when it has come to school. Illness, surgeries, unstable housing, and that is not counting the difficulties of being a single parent, have all plagued me. The GSBA was there to support me and believe in me, even when I was not able to do so for myself. I have seen this organization as one who supports the whole student, not just those who have the perfect 4.0. I have gotten the emails and phone calls checking up on me during times of struggle. I have made friends with other scholars. I have received encouragement in all areas of life, not just academics. I have been inducted into another family. For this, I thank them immensely and will forever feel a sense of gratitude for seeing me as a worthy investment over the years.
If you are interested in the blog by GSBA, please click here.
If you are curious about who GSBA is and how you can help support students and their dreams, please click here.
33 Days until Bloomsday
54 Days until CDA Half Marathon
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
I Have an Addiction
I have come to the conclusion that I have an addiction. It is not unhealthy. It is not self harming. It is not illegal. My addiction is to doing foot races. I am finding myself always looking to see what the next race can be. I am seeing opportunities to add races in just because. In fact, I am leaving town in a few weeks, and have looked at what I can add to my weekend getaway in terms of races. I have no shame in this, but I do find it to be an interesting transformation of myself.
I always found people who scheduled their lives around running or racing to be interesting. Oh, and a bit nuts! Other than people who have these huge sponsorships because they run insanely fast, I never saw how people could dedicate so much of themselves to racing. And now I am joining their ranks.
I walk. I walk a lot. I walk any chance I get! I try to talk other people into walking with me. And I have succeeded in getting others motivated into becoming active. I just never imagined I would become this hooked.
With that, I suspect I will be doing at least a 5K, preferably something much longer, on Sunday April 13th. Stay tuned. But if not, 60 days until CDA Half.
I always found people who scheduled their lives around running or racing to be interesting. Oh, and a bit nuts! Other than people who have these huge sponsorships because they run insanely fast, I never saw how people could dedicate so much of themselves to racing. And now I am joining their ranks.
I walk. I walk a lot. I walk any chance I get! I try to talk other people into walking with me. And I have succeeded in getting others motivated into becoming active. I just never imagined I would become this hooked.
With that, I suspect I will be doing at least a 5K, preferably something much longer, on Sunday April 13th. Stay tuned. But if not, 60 days until CDA Half.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Training, Smaller Races, Full Marathon
Spring is now here, and the lack of snow covering the ground has been a blessing. It is much easier to get out and train for future races. In fact, it is so nice, I did a small 5k a couple weeks ago with Chewy. Together we shaved 2 minutes off of my pace per mile, but then again, I wasn't reserving energy for long miles later in a race. I also felt good about this because I was not feeling 100%. Less than 24 hours later, I was knocked down, ran over, and then backed right over again by that evil winter time nemesis: The Flu. I would say that this was a good, get back on the horse 5k as it was just a week after Phoenix.
Next race is also not the CDA Half. In May, my hometown puts on a 12K with more than 50,000 participants. Chewy has decided that she would like to do this one with me as well. She is even training for it with her school's program. We did this one many years ago; she was 3 years old. We took forever, had a broken stroller, and I was in significantly worse shape than I am today. We are hoping to do this one in 2-2.5 hours. Totally doable! Plus it will be a good training race for me as this one is just a couple weeks before the half at the end of the month.
The question is coming up more and more: "When are you going to do a full marathon?" Truth be told, I see this in my future. I see this in what I consider my near future. I do have a training program for full marathon training that I am looking at how to fit into my daily life. I feel that I am in a place where I could do it with some training, and that it could be reality in the next year or two. I need to worry about my endurance and speed. I also need to figure out how to keep training in the winter if the weather thinks I should stay bundled up on the sofa. Many marathons have a 6 hour limit. If I were running, this would be one thing, but I am not. If I kept my current pace, I would need 8 hours. My plan is that I will complete a full marathon in my 30s. I can see this happening within two years. I feel that Seattle might be the race I do as my full marathon (the race from last December and this November) which will allow anyone to finish the race, but the roads reopen after 7 hours. This also happens to be the city that I love and consider my other home, so it is fitting to make it the place of my full.
65 days til Half #4...
Next race is also not the CDA Half. In May, my hometown puts on a 12K with more than 50,000 participants. Chewy has decided that she would like to do this one with me as well. She is even training for it with her school's program. We did this one many years ago; she was 3 years old. We took forever, had a broken stroller, and I was in significantly worse shape than I am today. We are hoping to do this one in 2-2.5 hours. Totally doable! Plus it will be a good training race for me as this one is just a couple weeks before the half at the end of the month.
The question is coming up more and more: "When are you going to do a full marathon?" Truth be told, I see this in my future. I see this in what I consider my near future. I do have a training program for full marathon training that I am looking at how to fit into my daily life. I feel that I am in a place where I could do it with some training, and that it could be reality in the next year or two. I need to worry about my endurance and speed. I also need to figure out how to keep training in the winter if the weather thinks I should stay bundled up on the sofa. Many marathons have a 6 hour limit. If I were running, this would be one thing, but I am not. If I kept my current pace, I would need 8 hours. My plan is that I will complete a full marathon in my 30s. I can see this happening within two years. I feel that Seattle might be the race I do as my full marathon (the race from last December and this November) which will allow anyone to finish the race, but the roads reopen after 7 hours. This also happens to be the city that I love and consider my other home, so it is fitting to make it the place of my full.
65 days til Half #4...
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
And the Next Race Is...
Coeur d'Alene Half Marathon is slated to be #4! In fact, let's just be honest about other future half marathons: Spokane Half Marathon in October, and Seattle Half Marathon is in November. Any summer races have yet to be decided, aside from Dirty Dash and Electric Run in July and August.
Why the CDA Half? Remember when I mentioned I had thought about doing a half marathon after my knee surgery, and then I quit getting ready for it? Well, this is that race. It is time to make it mine. I also figure that I should do something in my area. Still not my hometown, but close enough that it does not involve travel arrangements.
My goal for this race is simple. I want my time under 4 hours. I will work more on my endurance and speed for the next few months. I figure, it really is in my grasps. With a lot of training I shaved an hour off and never found a wall in Seattle. With very minimal training, I hit a wall and only added 4 minutes to Phoenix. I am at that 4 hours and a few minutes mark. My shoes fit well, and won't end up too big by May, so only a slight chance of blisters, if that. I am in relatively decent shape and can only get better from here. And the goal of 3:59:59 is totally attainable!
And so we begin our countdown: 82 days...
Why the CDA Half? Remember when I mentioned I had thought about doing a half marathon after my knee surgery, and then I quit getting ready for it? Well, this is that race. It is time to make it mine. I also figure that I should do something in my area. Still not my hometown, but close enough that it does not involve travel arrangements.
My goal for this race is simple. I want my time under 4 hours. I will work more on my endurance and speed for the next few months. I figure, it really is in my grasps. With a lot of training I shaved an hour off and never found a wall in Seattle. With very minimal training, I hit a wall and only added 4 minutes to Phoenix. I am at that 4 hours and a few minutes mark. My shoes fit well, and won't end up too big by May, so only a slight chance of blisters, if that. I am in relatively decent shape and can only get better from here. And the goal of 3:59:59 is totally attainable!
And so we begin our countdown: 82 days...
Phoenix Half Marathon Recap
I had a goal before ever finishing my second half marathon: I wanted to complete a third one by my birthday. I take great pride in being able to say
that I made this a reality. Thanks to some wonderful donations, a
holiday bonus from work, and a lot of deal searching on my part, I was
able to head down to the very warm and sunny Phoenix, AZ and do my third half marathon just one
week before my birthday.
The time was 4:40am. Runners from all over the world were all heading to the Riverview Mesa Shopping Area. This was our finish area, but also where we would board the buses that would take us to our respective starting lines. This was a point to point race with a Full, Half, and 10K associated with it. Me, not very smart at 4:40am parked my rental car at what looked like a very good landmark. There were lots of flags lining the area, all of different nations. "I couldn't miss that," was all I was thinking. Little did I realize how much more walking I would have to do to get around all the chaos that had yet been built for the day as this was our official finish line.
These 10 buses were charged with the task of driving us to our starting points. The full marathon started on a hill in Phoenix that is labeled with the name of the city. My starting point was on the edge of town. Let me tell you, this bus ride was very eye opening. We can all agree that 13.1 miles is a long distance. But riding in a vehicle from the finish line to the starting area really drives it home. Makes you wonder how crazy you must be to have woken up at 3:45am (2:45am back home) to willingly travel this distance by foot!
Here is the funny moment for me before the race. Back home, it was 25F the day I boarded the airplane to Phoenix. When I landed, it was 85F. So at 5am when it is 55F or so, locals are FREEZING! Fifty or more outdoor heaters were set up for the mass of locals. As for me, I was in capris, a tank top, and a light jacket as I knew it would be raining that morning. I giggled as I saw people in parkas. People looked at me in shock as I explained how I was not cold at all!The time is now 6:30am. The gun has gone off, and so have the fireworks. This was a nice way to send us off on our journey. All 4,000 of us were excited to go! I have to say, my major disappointment was not being able to see the sunrise as it was behind me. At the same time, I am glad the sun was not in my eyes the whole time.
One thing I greatly enjoyed about this race were the smells. Rosemary, sage, and citrus trees lined the race course. The aromas circling around me and filling me with joy. I had smelled the citrus trees, which were in bloom, the day before, but it was not able to connect the fragrance until the race. This was also one of the moments where I realized that I am glad that I walk. I don't think that I would find the same appreciation for my surroundings if I were running.
Mile 2 was a good place for me for a variety of reason. First of all, I learned in Seattle that I should always take a cup of electrolyte drink at every station. This was the first of many. Secondly, I had met a lady in the first mile who I began walking with, but by Mile 2, we parted ways. Her pace was much too slow for me, and her negativity was not what I wanted. I found it to be infectious. Thirdly, in Mile 2 I met my walking partner. She was a wonderful woman who had also traveled for the race. I had no clue we would walk the rest of the race together. I had no clue what she would mean to me later in the race. But let me tell you, I am grateful to Mile 2 for bringing me my walking partner that I would later run across the finish line with, and celebrate our finish with a hug.
Mile 5 brought the pancake group. Light little pancakes, no bigger than the palm of your hand. Not the heavy kind you get at the greasy spoons. No, these were perfect for that boost of energy. I gladly accepted one. I don't know if the pancake group knows how awesome they are, but they at least made my day!
Miles 11 and 12 were great! We knew we had this. We knew our time was fairly decent (more on that later). We knew we had to finish together because really, who would have thought that we would find someone on the course who could match our pace, and be helpful to us way back in Mile 2. We also were finding more and more of our competitive streak. We found a group of three people who had been 1-2 blocks ahead of us the entire race. We would close in, and they would run ahead. This kept happening the whole time...until now! They were slowing down. They lost their stamina. We knew that this was our chance. This finish line was less than a mile away, and if we were going to pass them, we had to do it now. We quickly passed them, and watched as they fell further and further behind us. High fives between the both of us for finally passing "those three", and a quick focus on finishing.
We made a deal that we would cross together. We also decided that we were running across the finish line, but not too far as we were both tired. So at about 50 feet from the finish line, we looked at each other and started our run. This was truly my victory run. I had done it! Three half marathons, all before my birthday were officially mine!
And now the answer to what is on everyone's mind: My time was 4:08:31.
I am okay with the fact that I added 4 minutes to my time compared to Seattle. I am actually surprised it was only 4 minutes that I added, and fully think that my walking partner is to thank for this. I was ill prepared compared to Seattle, but in a much better place than I was for Labor Day. I know now that I really should reconsider the idea of an early Spring race, but at the same time, I feel like it was a great kick off to the season. This was an emotional race for me though. Two separate moments, emotions only shown later in private.
My first moment was waiting in line for my massage in the finishers' area. I know that I have come a long ways from having knee reconstruction, to relearning how to walk, to completing a 5k, to now this. But it took everything I had not to cry when I was standing in line with a group of marathoners and one specific man from St. Louis told me that my completion of a half marathon was so much more than his marathon finish. He was talking about his own health issues, and noticed my scar. When I explained what it was from, all while stretching my quads, he looked at me in awe. He then told me how amazing I was that I could stretch in a way he couldn't. And even more, he felt that my race was so much more than his because of my personal travels to get there. I couldn't believe what he was telling me. I had completed half the distance he had, and in double the time, if not more than he had, but still, he was looking at me in a positive light. I was speechless!
After receiving a 45 minute massage thanks to the finishers' area, and having a huge bowl of pho with a friend of mine who lives in Arizona that drove into town just to see me, I had my other emotional moment, but this time let it out. I DID IT! I wanted my three. It was so surreal! When I picked up my race packet on Friday afternoon and talked with another friend who also lives in Arizona, I was in a little shock that I was really there. But it wasn't until after the race, when all was said and done, my medal hanging on the mirror of the rental car, and me waiting for a light to turn green, this is when it hit that I am a half marathoner, and one who had really and truly completed her goal!
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Happy Birthday Half Marathon is Complete!
I did it! Half marathon #3, my birthday present to myself, is now in the books! Was it easy? No. Was it hard? Not really. It was definitely memorable! Picture recap will come soon, but until then...
I am back home already.
I am not sore.
I am already planning #4 in May: Coeur d' Alene Half Marathon.
I am back home already.
I am not sore.
I am already planning #4 in May: Coeur d' Alene Half Marathon.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Phoenix Half Marathon: 23 hours and counting!
I have been a terrible blogger as of late. SO much so, that one would probably think that I have quit this journey completely. No, truth be told, I have been working a lot, and then school started. I write enough for school that I forget that some writing is enjoyable, like this!
How have I been? Well great! and lazy. Something about the weather creating a solid ice brick known as your current city you call home that puts a damper on your training which adds to that feeling of snuggling in a blanket with your cat is so much better than walking. I have done a lot of snuggling. The weather in my town really has not been conducive in any manner of training, unless of course I was training for a race in Antarctica. I have put down the miles when I could, but nothing like what I did before the Seattle Half. I have also learned that I really dislike treadmills! I mean REALLY dislike them. The contact that my foot does on the belt is nothing like the contact on pavement, and also does not come with the satisfaction for me.
This leads us to today. In less than 24 hours, I will be stepping out to begin half marathon #3 insunny rainy Phoenix! Thanks to wonderful and generous donations on my Go Fund Me page and a holiday bonus at work, I was able to pull together the funds to make this race a reality. There is a 100% chance of rain tomorrow during the race, but I do think that it will be better than the snow I have back at home. And the temperatures will still be an easy 40 degrees warmer than what I have at home as well!
Tomorrow's race will also be somewhat political for me. Recent news out of Arizona has discussed a bill called 1062. Some people felt that this was a "Religious Freedom" bill, but it can also be considered a "Legal Discrimination" bill. Wait, WHAT? I know, you are thinking that discrimination is illegal. Well, it is, sort of. With this bill, had it have signed by the Governor (she vetoed it, but it passed in the Senate and the House), a business would have had the right to refuse service to a person based on their strong religious convictions. So if my religious convictions said that I should not interact with a specific group of people, I could refuse them service and claim that my religion told me not to, and this would have been legally protected. This is not referring to what a person does in their church environment. I honestly feel that churches themselves have the right to deny service to whomever they choose. That is a church, which is sort of like an exclusive club, hence why there are so many religions and churches. They are not one size fits all. This bill had more to do with what people do in the general public: coffee house, gas station, grocery store, movie theatre, dry cleaning, etc. You know, every day living! So if my religious beliefs hold that I am to never associate with people who have pink and purple polka dots surrounding a third eye ball that is on their chin, I could have legally turned people away from my place of business for that very reason, and it would have been okay. This bothers me greatly. I firmly believe that all people are created equal. I do not care who you are, or your minority status, you are a person and you deserve to be respected and treated how I would treat anyone else. I am a person of minority status. I also have been discriminated against in various manners. I would have thought that by 2014, we as a society could wake up and see that we are just all humans. The premise of this country had to do with people wishing to not be persecuted by their homeland. Why are we continuing the persecution? Again, what you do in your church is fine because that is the exclusive club. What you do in your home is fine, you know, provided it does not harm yourself or others. But to say you will not serve a specific group of people in a public place, that is just like the segregation that was occurring just a few short years ago. Not sure what I mean? Go look up the Civil Rights movement.
So tomorrow, I will do my half marathon. I will do it as a minority in a state who can racially profile me and demand I prove my citizenship status. I will do it for people who are not able to walk out their door and feel safe from discrimination. I will do it without hiding any part of who I am as that is what makes me great!
Race time: 23 hours, 1 minute...
How have I been? Well great! and lazy. Something about the weather creating a solid ice brick known as your current city you call home that puts a damper on your training which adds to that feeling of snuggling in a blanket with your cat is so much better than walking. I have done a lot of snuggling. The weather in my town really has not been conducive in any manner of training, unless of course I was training for a race in Antarctica. I have put down the miles when I could, but nothing like what I did before the Seattle Half. I have also learned that I really dislike treadmills! I mean REALLY dislike them. The contact that my foot does on the belt is nothing like the contact on pavement, and also does not come with the satisfaction for me.
This leads us to today. In less than 24 hours, I will be stepping out to begin half marathon #3 in
Tomorrow's race will also be somewhat political for me. Recent news out of Arizona has discussed a bill called 1062. Some people felt that this was a "Religious Freedom" bill, but it can also be considered a "Legal Discrimination" bill. Wait, WHAT? I know, you are thinking that discrimination is illegal. Well, it is, sort of. With this bill, had it have signed by the Governor (she vetoed it, but it passed in the Senate and the House), a business would have had the right to refuse service to a person based on their strong religious convictions. So if my religious convictions said that I should not interact with a specific group of people, I could refuse them service and claim that my religion told me not to, and this would have been legally protected. This is not referring to what a person does in their church environment. I honestly feel that churches themselves have the right to deny service to whomever they choose. That is a church, which is sort of like an exclusive club, hence why there are so many religions and churches. They are not one size fits all. This bill had more to do with what people do in the general public: coffee house, gas station, grocery store, movie theatre, dry cleaning, etc. You know, every day living! So if my religious beliefs hold that I am to never associate with people who have pink and purple polka dots surrounding a third eye ball that is on their chin, I could have legally turned people away from my place of business for that very reason, and it would have been okay. This bothers me greatly. I firmly believe that all people are created equal. I do not care who you are, or your minority status, you are a person and you deserve to be respected and treated how I would treat anyone else. I am a person of minority status. I also have been discriminated against in various manners. I would have thought that by 2014, we as a society could wake up and see that we are just all humans. The premise of this country had to do with people wishing to not be persecuted by their homeland. Why are we continuing the persecution? Again, what you do in your church is fine because that is the exclusive club. What you do in your home is fine, you know, provided it does not harm yourself or others. But to say you will not serve a specific group of people in a public place, that is just like the segregation that was occurring just a few short years ago. Not sure what I mean? Go look up the Civil Rights movement.
So tomorrow, I will do my half marathon. I will do it as a minority in a state who can racially profile me and demand I prove my citizenship status. I will do it for people who are not able to walk out their door and feel safe from discrimination. I will do it without hiding any part of who I am as that is what makes me great!
Race time: 23 hours, 1 minute...
Friday, January 3, 2014
Kidney Stones!
We all can think of some terrible tortures. Some are fairly benign. Others cause so much pain that one would feel that they should just die. Kidney stones are that torture for me! I birthed a 10lbs baby, and can say that I would happily do that every day for the rest of my life, just so long as I do not have to experience that little bit of hell called a kidney stone!
I find irony in this though. Two months before my race in Seattle, I dealt with my gall bladder being removed. Since December 26th, which is actually the 3 month 1 day anniversary of my surgery, my kidneys started screaming in a way that would make anyone cry. In fact, these things cause so much agony, I would not wish them upon my worst enemy! With that, my last training walk was on December 25th: a short 3 miles along the beautiful Lake Coeur d'Alene. The rest of my time has been spent medicated; in a hospital room being extra medicated; cringing in pain; and pushing so many fluids in hopes I can pass this tiny evil monster out of my body!
I do find it interesting that I am battling some other medical issue exactly two months before my next race, again. It won't stop me though. I will be back to training soon. But until then, I might cry a little more as I keep working to get this little bit of hell out of my body!
Days til Phoenix: 57!
I find irony in this though. Two months before my race in Seattle, I dealt with my gall bladder being removed. Since December 26th, which is actually the 3 month 1 day anniversary of my surgery, my kidneys started screaming in a way that would make anyone cry. In fact, these things cause so much agony, I would not wish them upon my worst enemy! With that, my last training walk was on December 25th: a short 3 miles along the beautiful Lake Coeur d'Alene. The rest of my time has been spent medicated; in a hospital room being extra medicated; cringing in pain; and pushing so many fluids in hopes I can pass this tiny evil monster out of my body!
I do find it interesting that I am battling some other medical issue exactly two months before my next race, again. It won't stop me though. I will be back to training soon. But until then, I might cry a little more as I keep working to get this little bit of hell out of my body!
Days til Phoenix: 57!
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