So I was reading something online today and it mentioned a "Running Resume." This got me thinking about how I can't really recall off the top of my head all of the races that I've done. Maybe it would be really helpful to create a race resume!
So that is how I have just spent the last 40+ minutes of my life. And to be perfectly honest, I've spent much worse 40+ minutes doing much more horrible things.
I know I've probably missed a few, but here we go so far:
RACES
Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run – April 2008 1:28:53
Marine Corps Marathon – October 2008 4:23:00
Jingle All the Way 10k – December 2008 00:54:45
SunTrust National Half Marathon – March 2009 1:56:11
Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run – April 2009 1:29:32
Nation’s Triathlon – September 2009 3:37:00
Nike Women’s Marathon – October 2009 4:42:26
SunTrust National Marathon – March 2010 3:59:36
Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run – April 2010 1:44:15
Back On My Feet 20in24 Ultramarathon – July 2010 42.28 miles
Marine Corps Marathon – October 2010 4:15:40
SunTrust National Marathon – March 2011 4:40:58
Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run – April 2011 1:41:10
Pacers 5k Friday Series – April 2011 00:22:20 (best time)
Baltimore 10 Mile Race – June 2011 1:29:08
Back On My Feet 20in24 Ultramarathon – July 2011 50.73 miles
9-11Memorial 5k – September 2011 00:23:30
Philadelphia Rock n Roll Half Marathon – September 2011 1:46:32
Hershey Half Marathon – October 2011 1:46:19
Chester County 5k Turkey Trot – November 2011 00:21:44
Hot Chocolate 15k – December 2011 1:12:58
Jingle All the Way 8k – December 2011 00:52:21
UPCOMING RACES
SunTrust National Marathon – March 2012
Pacers 5k Friday Series – April 2012
GW Parkway Classic 10 Mile Run – April 2012
Flying Pig Marathon – May 2012
Back On My Feet 20in24 Ultramarathon – July 2012
Marine Corps Marathon – October 2012
Jingle All the Way 8k – December 2012
I think that everyone who runs should keep something like this because it really shows progress and by the end, you really feel accomplished. Even if you didn't accomplish anything except wasting 40+ minutes of your day :)
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Why I'll NEVER Run Another RAM Race
This past weekend was the Hot Chocolate 15k. It was a distance I hadn't done before, so I figured it would be fun. In retrospect, the poorly designed and unhelpful website should have been an indicator of how this race would go. At the packet pickup, I felt like maybe I should just skip the race. I ended up going anyway and all I can say is, at least now I have a race horror story to share with the world (and everyone needs one of those).
Let's start with the packet pickup. They would not allow race day pickup, which to me is a little goofy considering that it was a 5k/15k race. It wasn't like it was a marathon or something. But boyfriend agreed to drive me out, which was a good thing because the pickup AND the race were not metro accessible.
Okay, let's back up. This race was advertised as a Hot Chocolate Race in Washington, DC. I swear when I signed up, there was no race course up on their website. And so imagine my surprise when I looked up packet pickup and discovered that the location was the National Harbor...in Maryland. This makes absolutely no sense to me, because DC is a great city and there are some fantastic places to run here. There's no need to hold a race so far away that it's not accesible by metro.
Back to packet pickup. It was SO congested and crowded that it took us over an hour just to get into a parking garage. There were no signs anywhere, no indicators of where to go, what to do. The website remained spectacularly unhelpful and the organizers posted an "aerial view" of the National Harbor on their facebook page in a sad attempt to direct the rows and rows of cars trying to merge into one lane. It failed. It was utter chaos. They also forgot to mention that there were tons of non-race related events happening at the National Harbor on Friday, which just added to the chaos. Once we got in to pick up our packets, I was really sad to see the pathetic jacket they handed out. That was it. Jacket, bib, safety pins. It was the worst race packet I've ever had! I stopped by a woman who was handing out corral stickers for bibs. She didn't check my claim that I could run 8 minute miles. And she also told me that even if I didn't get a sticker, I could get into the corral on race morning. I took a B sticker and then we hightailed it out of there.
On race morning, my friend, her brother, and I walked out to catch a shuttle from Crystal City. It was before 6am. We were going to be on time, gosh darn it! We walked a few blocks from my apartment and found...rows of old school buses. I haven't been on a school bus for years and let me tell you, they have not improved. For a $65 race fee, I really expected something a lot nicer.
The traffic was horrendous. We stood at a standstill until our driver dangerously cut off several cars and smashed her way through the highway. I hear we got lucky, because apparently a lot of the bus drivers got really lost and people had to sit on those buses for hours.
Which may not have been so bad after all. When we arrived, we dropped off some bags at the gear check and after huddling in a tent for a while, we went down to get lined up. Runners were supposed to be lined up by 7:45am, with the race starting at 8. I headed to my B corral and took my friends with me. Where they were promptly stopped by a volunteer who wouldn't let them in the corral because their bibs didn't have a sticker. Look, I understand that people don't like to have to pass slow runners. But no matter how far in the front you are (unless you're on of the VERY FIRST people), you're always going to be passing someone. Anyway, my friends can run about the same pace as me. But the volunteer SCREAMED at my friend, "are you going to run 6 minute miles?!? These people are going to run 6 minute miles. You're going to get TRAMPLED!" What can anyone say to that? I was left alone in my lame little B corral, feeling shaken by how mean a volunteer could be.
And then, we waited. And waited. 8am passed. 8:15. 8:30. We didn't start the race until AFTER 9am. By that point, we were all freezing and HUNGRY. Runners don't eat a huge breakfast buffet before running 9 miles. I couldn't believe how hungry I was by the time we started and after the first mile, I realized that I was a little light headed. Which was really not good because the first 5 miles of the race were in a single lane on the HIGHWAY. With the other lane open to traffic. It was a loop, which means that runners were going in both directions. There was no way an ambulance could have made it through if there had been an emergency. We were all inhaling exhaust fumes and trying not to run into each other. Also, I think it goes without saying that it was incredibly UGLY. Why on earth would someone advertise a race in DC and then have us run on a highway in the middle of Maryland? RAM Racing, that's who.
After the first five miles, the course continued to narrow. It was like jogging on a path made for 2 people, not 20,000. Except that there were 20,000 people on the path. It was unbelievable.
The race was definitely not a 15k. People kept saying that their garmin was registering it as 9.1 miles instead of 9.3 and I completely believe that. The finish line was only moments away from the 9 mile marker and as someone who runs marathons, I know that .2 miles can be a ways away, let alone .3. That was a disappointment, but not as disappointing as the "chocolate festival" that followed.
First, we had to walk up a gravelly hill to get to the chocolate. That was not pretty. Then we walked through a tent where we were handed a plate that consisted of: half a browned banana, a pretzel rod, one marshmallow, 3 apple slices, and 2 tiny pieces of a rice krispie treat. These had been sitting out for hours. Then we walked to the "chocolate fondue"...which was melted chocolate congealing in large troughs. Volunteers scooped some out onto our plates and then we were booted out of the tent. The hot chocolate was fine, but nothing special. Everyone was alloted ONE cup only. I hopped right back on a school bus, which was the smart thing to do because apparently the lines later were so long that people had to wait over an hour just to get on a bus.
The response from organizers has been unsatisfying to say the least. They have been deleting negative comments from the Facebook page (rule #1 of social media: do NOT delete any comments unless they are vulgar or have bad words). The letter that they sent out to participants blamed the police, a traffic accident, and the parking company. They took zero responsibility and obviously are not planning on refunding anyone's money (did I mention that the poor people who drove had to pay $10 for a parking pass that no one checked on race day? what a scam).
RAM Racing has proven to be incompetent, unresponsive, and rude. I definitely will not trust them to plan any other race and I encourage all of you to avoid their races as well. There are so many great races out there in the DC area. You do not need to waste your time on any event hosted by RAM.
Here's the Jingle All the Way 8k this weekend, a tried and true, well-done, organized event that I am looking forward to!
Let's start with the packet pickup. They would not allow race day pickup, which to me is a little goofy considering that it was a 5k/15k race. It wasn't like it was a marathon or something. But boyfriend agreed to drive me out, which was a good thing because the pickup AND the race were not metro accessible.
Okay, let's back up. This race was advertised as a Hot Chocolate Race in Washington, DC. I swear when I signed up, there was no race course up on their website. And so imagine my surprise when I looked up packet pickup and discovered that the location was the National Harbor...in Maryland. This makes absolutely no sense to me, because DC is a great city and there are some fantastic places to run here. There's no need to hold a race so far away that it's not accesible by metro.
Back to packet pickup. It was SO congested and crowded that it took us over an hour just to get into a parking garage. There were no signs anywhere, no indicators of where to go, what to do. The website remained spectacularly unhelpful and the organizers posted an "aerial view" of the National Harbor on their facebook page in a sad attempt to direct the rows and rows of cars trying to merge into one lane. It failed. It was utter chaos. They also forgot to mention that there were tons of non-race related events happening at the National Harbor on Friday, which just added to the chaos. Once we got in to pick up our packets, I was really sad to see the pathetic jacket they handed out. That was it. Jacket, bib, safety pins. It was the worst race packet I've ever had! I stopped by a woman who was handing out corral stickers for bibs. She didn't check my claim that I could run 8 minute miles. And she also told me that even if I didn't get a sticker, I could get into the corral on race morning. I took a B sticker and then we hightailed it out of there.
On race morning, my friend, her brother, and I walked out to catch a shuttle from Crystal City. It was before 6am. We were going to be on time, gosh darn it! We walked a few blocks from my apartment and found...rows of old school buses. I haven't been on a school bus for years and let me tell you, they have not improved. For a $65 race fee, I really expected something a lot nicer.
The traffic was horrendous. We stood at a standstill until our driver dangerously cut off several cars and smashed her way through the highway. I hear we got lucky, because apparently a lot of the bus drivers got really lost and people had to sit on those buses for hours.
Which may not have been so bad after all. When we arrived, we dropped off some bags at the gear check and after huddling in a tent for a while, we went down to get lined up. Runners were supposed to be lined up by 7:45am, with the race starting at 8. I headed to my B corral and took my friends with me. Where they were promptly stopped by a volunteer who wouldn't let them in the corral because their bibs didn't have a sticker. Look, I understand that people don't like to have to pass slow runners. But no matter how far in the front you are (unless you're on of the VERY FIRST people), you're always going to be passing someone. Anyway, my friends can run about the same pace as me. But the volunteer SCREAMED at my friend, "are you going to run 6 minute miles?!? These people are going to run 6 minute miles. You're going to get TRAMPLED!" What can anyone say to that? I was left alone in my lame little B corral, feeling shaken by how mean a volunteer could be.
And then, we waited. And waited. 8am passed. 8:15. 8:30. We didn't start the race until AFTER 9am. By that point, we were all freezing and HUNGRY. Runners don't eat a huge breakfast buffet before running 9 miles. I couldn't believe how hungry I was by the time we started and after the first mile, I realized that I was a little light headed. Which was really not good because the first 5 miles of the race were in a single lane on the HIGHWAY. With the other lane open to traffic. It was a loop, which means that runners were going in both directions. There was no way an ambulance could have made it through if there had been an emergency. We were all inhaling exhaust fumes and trying not to run into each other. Also, I think it goes without saying that it was incredibly UGLY. Why on earth would someone advertise a race in DC and then have us run on a highway in the middle of Maryland? RAM Racing, that's who.
After the first five miles, the course continued to narrow. It was like jogging on a path made for 2 people, not 20,000. Except that there were 20,000 people on the path. It was unbelievable.
The race was definitely not a 15k. People kept saying that their garmin was registering it as 9.1 miles instead of 9.3 and I completely believe that. The finish line was only moments away from the 9 mile marker and as someone who runs marathons, I know that .2 miles can be a ways away, let alone .3. That was a disappointment, but not as disappointing as the "chocolate festival" that followed.
First, we had to walk up a gravelly hill to get to the chocolate. That was not pretty. Then we walked through a tent where we were handed a plate that consisted of: half a browned banana, a pretzel rod, one marshmallow, 3 apple slices, and 2 tiny pieces of a rice krispie treat. These had been sitting out for hours. Then we walked to the "chocolate fondue"...which was melted chocolate congealing in large troughs. Volunteers scooped some out onto our plates and then we were booted out of the tent. The hot chocolate was fine, but nothing special. Everyone was alloted ONE cup only. I hopped right back on a school bus, which was the smart thing to do because apparently the lines later were so long that people had to wait over an hour just to get on a bus.
The response from organizers has been unsatisfying to say the least. They have been deleting negative comments from the Facebook page (rule #1 of social media: do NOT delete any comments unless they are vulgar or have bad words). The letter that they sent out to participants blamed the police, a traffic accident, and the parking company. They took zero responsibility and obviously are not planning on refunding anyone's money (did I mention that the poor people who drove had to pay $10 for a parking pass that no one checked on race day? what a scam).
RAM Racing has proven to be incompetent, unresponsive, and rude. I definitely will not trust them to plan any other race and I encourage all of you to avoid their races as well. There are so many great races out there in the DC area. You do not need to waste your time on any event hosted by RAM.
Here's the Jingle All the Way 8k this weekend, a tried and true, well-done, organized event that I am looking forward to!
Monday, November 14, 2011
My First Run
"This is stupid" was the phrase that was running through my head. "I signed up for tennis, not running. Why am I running?" I glanced over at my mom, who seemed to be enjoying this...this...exercise. "My boobs hurt," I announced to her loudly. "We'll probably have to get you a sports bra," was her quick and even reply. Ah-ha. At least something good will come out of this torture. New bras!
I feel fortunate that I remember my very first real "run." I think it helps me to connect with new runners. I also think it helps me not to take running for granted. It's not something that everyone will enjoy immediately and it's not something that is easy to start on your own.
During my freshman year of high school, I proclaimed that next year, I would join the tennis team instead of enduring the torture and boredom of marching band. As a bassoon player (it's the long instrument that looks like a bedpost), I was not able to march with my original instrument. The school decided it would be a good idea to get me to play the BASS DRUM, which was so different and scary that I hated every minute of marching band (also the uniforms were just icky). Luckily, if I joined the tennis team, I would be exempt from ever touching a drum again.
However, after I announced my decision to my parents, my mom came up with a novel idea: better go for a run. If I was going to join the tennis team, I'd have to bring something to the table. Might as well face it - I will never be a star tennis player. I am barely a decent tennis player. But if I could show that I was fit, eager, and ready for anything, then I might have a chance to join the team and make it through try-outs.
So on one sunny day, my mom made me go for a run with her. Looking back, it was probably a little less than a mile. I run on that path all the time now when I go home to see my parents. But at the time, it seemed like we must have been running for HOURS. I had no idea why my chest hurt. I had no idea why my feet hurt. Why would anyone subject themselves to this? But my mom stood fast - if I was going to be an athlete, that meant learning how to run.
Because of this, I was able to join the tennis team. And I was able to pass all my teammates whenever we did running exercises. I was fit. I was ready. I was eager to learn anything and everything. And so they let me join the team.
When I went to college and didn't have to play a sport to get out of marching band, I found that all I really wanted to do was run. And now, well, all I want to do is run. I have found something that I profoundly love and enjoy. Now, over 10 years later, my mom credits me with getting her into races and running. I guess her love for me overshadows that humiliating first run, during which she encouraged me and helped me to get past the first hurdles. Maybe she really has forgotten that she is the reason why I am who I am today (for so many reasons).
Maybe it's time I reminded her and maybe it's even time that I say thank you!
I feel fortunate that I remember my very first real "run." I think it helps me to connect with new runners. I also think it helps me not to take running for granted. It's not something that everyone will enjoy immediately and it's not something that is easy to start on your own.
During my freshman year of high school, I proclaimed that next year, I would join the tennis team instead of enduring the torture and boredom of marching band. As a bassoon player (it's the long instrument that looks like a bedpost), I was not able to march with my original instrument. The school decided it would be a good idea to get me to play the BASS DRUM, which was so different and scary that I hated every minute of marching band (also the uniforms were just icky). Luckily, if I joined the tennis team, I would be exempt from ever touching a drum again.
However, after I announced my decision to my parents, my mom came up with a novel idea: better go for a run. If I was going to join the tennis team, I'd have to bring something to the table. Might as well face it - I will never be a star tennis player. I am barely a decent tennis player. But if I could show that I was fit, eager, and ready for anything, then I might have a chance to join the team and make it through try-outs.
So on one sunny day, my mom made me go for a run with her. Looking back, it was probably a little less than a mile. I run on that path all the time now when I go home to see my parents. But at the time, it seemed like we must have been running for HOURS. I had no idea why my chest hurt. I had no idea why my feet hurt. Why would anyone subject themselves to this? But my mom stood fast - if I was going to be an athlete, that meant learning how to run.
Because of this, I was able to join the tennis team. And I was able to pass all my teammates whenever we did running exercises. I was fit. I was ready. I was eager to learn anything and everything. And so they let me join the team.
When I went to college and didn't have to play a sport to get out of marching band, I found that all I really wanted to do was run. And now, well, all I want to do is run. I have found something that I profoundly love and enjoy. Now, over 10 years later, my mom credits me with getting her into races and running. I guess her love for me overshadows that humiliating first run, during which she encouraged me and helped me to get past the first hurdles. Maybe she really has forgotten that she is the reason why I am who I am today (for so many reasons).
Maybe it's time I reminded her and maybe it's even time that I say thank you!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Going backpacking
A few weeks ago, I made a solid investment. I purchased a running backpack. It was definitely not a spur of the moment purchase; I'd been thinking about it for a while. As summer started to wind down, I became increasingly concerned about how and when I would fit in my running. Then one day it occurred to me: run home from work.
The run from my office in downtown DC to Pentagon City, VA is absolutely beautiful. I go right down the National Mall, loop around by the Jefferson Memorial, and go on a bridge right to VA. Then I take the Mt. Vernon trail around by the airport, through Crystal City directly to my apartment building. It's a little less than 5 miles and is an ideal run for weekdays. For the past few weeks, I've been running home at least once or twice a week. I get my workout in early, so I'm not running around at 8pm in the dark AND I burn off all of the stress/steam of the workday.
For the record, I highly recommend the brand that I bought - Osprey Talon. I purchased it from a great company called Moosejaw. It was about $80 and it was completely worth it. The backpack is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to run with. There's lots of useful compartments and it even has a separate space for a water bladder. It is pretty much my new favorite running toy for now!
The run from my office in downtown DC to Pentagon City, VA is absolutely beautiful. I go right down the National Mall, loop around by the Jefferson Memorial, and go on a bridge right to VA. Then I take the Mt. Vernon trail around by the airport, through Crystal City directly to my apartment building. It's a little less than 5 miles and is an ideal run for weekdays. For the past few weeks, I've been running home at least once or twice a week. I get my workout in early, so I'm not running around at 8pm in the dark AND I burn off all of the stress/steam of the workday.
For the record, I highly recommend the brand that I bought - Osprey Talon. I purchased it from a great company called Moosejaw. It was about $80 and it was completely worth it. The backpack is lightweight, comfortable, and easy to run with. There's lots of useful compartments and it even has a separate space for a water bladder. It is pretty much my new favorite running toy for now!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Social Runner! (pick me!!!!)
A week ago, I got a really interesting email. As you all know from diligently reading ALL of my blog posts (cough, cough), my very first race was the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler in 2008. I had so much fun and loved it so much that I signed up for the Marine Corps Marathon that fall. I've been hooked ever since! I have been doing the Cherry Blossom run every year since then (thankfully I have made it through the lottery each time and even got the chance to run it with my mom TWICE). Let me tell you - it is a great race. It's a popular race and so it's pretty big. The course is beautiful and the energy is great!
But that was just the back story...back to that interesting email. It was an email from race organizers giving some updates on the upcoming 2012 race. And it included a very special new section:
"The Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run is looking for two runners from anywhere in the United States to be our first “Credit Union Cherry Blossom Social Runners.” These individuals will be telling the world all about their experiences with the race on Facebook and Twitter."
What a great opportunity! I'm so happy to see that they are offering something like this. I would absolutely love to help spread the word about the race and I'm looking forward to seeing who they pick! No matter what, it's going to be another beautiful race in 2012!
But that was just the back story...back to that interesting email. It was an email from race organizers giving some updates on the upcoming 2012 race. And it included a very special new section:
"The Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run is looking for two runners from anywhere in the United States to be our first “Credit Union Cherry Blossom Social Runners.” These individuals will be telling the world all about their experiences with the race on Facebook and Twitter."
What a great opportunity! I'm so happy to see that they are offering something like this. I would absolutely love to help spread the word about the race and I'm looking forward to seeing who they pick! No matter what, it's going to be another beautiful race in 2012!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Go Runners Go!
The Marine Corps Marathon was yesterday. I could hear the announcers from my bedroom in Arlington. I could see the road closures from the windows. And part of the race course was on the road by my apartment building. I was feeling pretty sad. I got up at 7 and went for an hour run. Then I pulled myself together, ate some donuts, and dragged Boyfriend out with me to cheer on the runners.
IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!
I love to cheer people on in races. I love to race more, but if I can't race, I want to cheer. I would never avoid a race because I wasn't doing it. I can't imagine going for a long run instead of cheering on the runners. It was a BLAST!! I had a cowbell and someone gave me a big horn and I was not quiet for one minute. Constant cowbelling and yelling are my style. I was meeting them all right after they hit mile 23. I got there around the 2:15 hour mark and there were already a bunch of crazy runners speeding through. They didn't really acknowledge my cheers, but I don't always either. I know how important it is to have people cheering you on, so I just kept yelling. But after we hit the 3 hour mark, that was when people were giving me the thumbs up, high-fiving me, and screaming "THANK YOU!!!" as they shuffled by. There were several people who were walking as they approached me but when they got close to me they started running again. I absolutely believe in the power of a cheer squad and I can only hope that I helped some of them through the last 3 miles.
Some tips for people who are going to cheer at a marathon:
1) cheer for everyone! ring your cowbell or wave your sign for everyone who walks by. it doesn't matter if you know them or not!
2) if you see someone who's wearing their name on their shirt, call it out! if they don't have their name on, but they have writing on, yell that out. it will lift their spirits! (for runners: put your name on your shirt or your body somewhere!)
3) if you bring your kids (and I suggest you do!), don't let them get so close to the race course. There were two little girls cheering next to me for a while and they kept blowing their horns into the race course. Like abruptly raising a huge plastic horn into runners' paths. Their caretaker did not seem too concerned, which really started to irritate me.
4) have fun! Runners need positive energy as they power through their race. Laugh, cheer, and dance! It will lift runners' spirits.
I pretty much gave up on specific cheers and stuck with "great job runners!" "you look strong, keep it up!" and "you can do it! finish strong, stay strong runners!" Maybe the people next to me got sick of it, but everyone needs to hear you. The runner passing you 5 minutes ago doesn't care if you're still telling the people behind them that they have a good pace too. I really believe that there were a lot of people out there yesterday who needed to hear, "you CAN do this!" I know that I've needed that little pep talk in a race before.
I made myself a promise yesterday. As long as I live in the DC area, I WILL do the Marine Corps Marathon. I can't stand to miss it ever again! What an incredible race! Congrats to all the finishers!!
IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!
I love to cheer people on in races. I love to race more, but if I can't race, I want to cheer. I would never avoid a race because I wasn't doing it. I can't imagine going for a long run instead of cheering on the runners. It was a BLAST!! I had a cowbell and someone gave me a big horn and I was not quiet for one minute. Constant cowbelling and yelling are my style. I was meeting them all right after they hit mile 23. I got there around the 2:15 hour mark and there were already a bunch of crazy runners speeding through. They didn't really acknowledge my cheers, but I don't always either. I know how important it is to have people cheering you on, so I just kept yelling. But after we hit the 3 hour mark, that was when people were giving me the thumbs up, high-fiving me, and screaming "THANK YOU!!!" as they shuffled by. There were several people who were walking as they approached me but when they got close to me they started running again. I absolutely believe in the power of a cheer squad and I can only hope that I helped some of them through the last 3 miles.
Some tips for people who are going to cheer at a marathon:
1) cheer for everyone! ring your cowbell or wave your sign for everyone who walks by. it doesn't matter if you know them or not!
2) if you see someone who's wearing their name on their shirt, call it out! if they don't have their name on, but they have writing on, yell that out. it will lift their spirits! (for runners: put your name on your shirt or your body somewhere!)
3) if you bring your kids (and I suggest you do!), don't let them get so close to the race course. There were two little girls cheering next to me for a while and they kept blowing their horns into the race course. Like abruptly raising a huge plastic horn into runners' paths. Their caretaker did not seem too concerned, which really started to irritate me.
4) have fun! Runners need positive energy as they power through their race. Laugh, cheer, and dance! It will lift runners' spirits.
I pretty much gave up on specific cheers and stuck with "great job runners!" "you look strong, keep it up!" and "you can do it! finish strong, stay strong runners!" Maybe the people next to me got sick of it, but everyone needs to hear you. The runner passing you 5 minutes ago doesn't care if you're still telling the people behind them that they have a good pace too. I really believe that there were a lot of people out there yesterday who needed to hear, "you CAN do this!" I know that I've needed that little pep talk in a race before.
I made myself a promise yesterday. As long as I live in the DC area, I WILL do the Marine Corps Marathon. I can't stand to miss it ever again! What an incredible race! Congrats to all the finishers!!
Monday, October 24, 2011
It's not too late to do another marathon....RIGHT?!!?!?
First off, let's kick things off with a shout out to Rich, who made my YEAR by commenting on my blog. Let's all go visit his new blog at http://mydaddyisarunner.blogspot.com/. He had the misfortune of having me photobomb a few of his race photos in the Hershey Half Marathon and was kind enough to search me out and comment on my blog post!
In other news...I'm debating signing up for another marathon before 2012 hits. I'm feeling the bug pretty badly and I'm not sure if I'll be able to resist. I figure that I can get in a few 20 milers in November and do a December marathon? The only problem is that I'm late in registering, so there's not a ton of races left, ESPECIALLY in my vicinity. Doing this would probably mean going down to Florida or something and as nice as that sounds, it's probably not gonna happen. Sooo....Rehoboth or some trail run in Baltimore? Thoughts? Suggestions? The Rehoboth one happens to be the day before my Jingle All the Way 8k...but 8k is only 5 miles (not even 5 miles, just under). I think it would be totally feasible but would it be a really jerk move to do that since I signed up for the Jingle race with friends and family? Would anyone go to the beach in December to support me? I guess I may find out...I'll keep you all updated on my decision.
This weekend I'm going to go cheer on the Marine Corp Marathon runners. I'm so excited to stand on the street and yell at people for a few hours!! I was going out for a morning run yesterday and a random guy in my apartment building asked how far I was going. In general I hate that question, because I often don't know yet. I just go for as long as I feel like. So I kind of stammered and he ultimately got around to saying, "You should do the Marine Corps Marathon! I think it's next weekend." Oh, dear, poor fellow really set me up for that one. Ready for my spike? "Oh yeah. I've done that one. Twice." BAM. Right in the face!! He looked shocked (although I'm not sure why, I think I look like I run pretty steadily) and all he could muster was, "well look at you!"
Yeah that's right. Look at me! I'm a runner!
In other news...I'm debating signing up for another marathon before 2012 hits. I'm feeling the bug pretty badly and I'm not sure if I'll be able to resist. I figure that I can get in a few 20 milers in November and do a December marathon? The only problem is that I'm late in registering, so there's not a ton of races left, ESPECIALLY in my vicinity. Doing this would probably mean going down to Florida or something and as nice as that sounds, it's probably not gonna happen. Sooo....Rehoboth or some trail run in Baltimore? Thoughts? Suggestions? The Rehoboth one happens to be the day before my Jingle All the Way 8k...but 8k is only 5 miles (not even 5 miles, just under). I think it would be totally feasible but would it be a really jerk move to do that since I signed up for the Jingle race with friends and family? Would anyone go to the beach in December to support me? I guess I may find out...I'll keep you all updated on my decision.
This weekend I'm going to go cheer on the Marine Corp Marathon runners. I'm so excited to stand on the street and yell at people for a few hours!! I was going out for a morning run yesterday and a random guy in my apartment building asked how far I was going. In general I hate that question, because I often don't know yet. I just go for as long as I feel like. So I kind of stammered and he ultimately got around to saying, "You should do the Marine Corps Marathon! I think it's next weekend." Oh, dear, poor fellow really set me up for that one. Ready for my spike? "Oh yeah. I've done that one. Twice." BAM. Right in the face!! He looked shocked (although I'm not sure why, I think I look like I run pretty steadily) and all he could muster was, "well look at you!"
Yeah that's right. Look at me! I'm a runner!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Does 13 seconds really make a difference?
This weekend, I did the Hershey Half Marathon. It was one of the smallest races I've done (only 5,000 people). Let me tell you - small races may be the way to go. It was so personal - names on the bibs, easy to get to the starting line, convenient parking, very decongested start line. There were a LOT of spectators, which kind of surprised me, except when you think about it, people bring their whole families to the smaller races. Don't get me wrong, it was no Marine Corps Marathon. But it really was a great race. It was a gorgeous day for it and it went through the beautiful PA countryside AND through Hersheypark. They also had a chocolate aid station, which was wonderful. The schwag was pretty awesome too - a great reusable bag, cool t-shirt, 13.1 bumper sticker, and an insulated lunch box filled with goodies at the finish. I think I just might do this race again next year...
I also managed to improve my time from the Philly half marathon by 13 seconds - so I shaved off one second per mile. So I PR'ed this weekend, which made me ridiculously happy for some reason. I also was in the top 500 finishers in the race (which really only happened because it was a small race).
In other news, a 100 year old man did the Toronto marathon this weekend. FULL marathon. UNBELIEVABLE!! Can you even imagine being 100 years old and doing 26.2 miles? He said he was so happy that it only compared to his wedding day. I told this to my friend and she immediately responded with "that'll be you someday." I think that's what every runner, deep down inside, wants. Yes, we would like to win races and improve our times, but in the end it's about running as long and as much as possible. Keep going till you can't go no more!!!
I also managed to improve my time from the Philly half marathon by 13 seconds - so I shaved off one second per mile. So I PR'ed this weekend, which made me ridiculously happy for some reason. I also was in the top 500 finishers in the race (which really only happened because it was a small race).
In other news, a 100 year old man did the Toronto marathon this weekend. FULL marathon. UNBELIEVABLE!! Can you even imagine being 100 years old and doing 26.2 miles? He said he was so happy that it only compared to his wedding day. I told this to my friend and she immediately responded with "that'll be you someday." I think that's what every runner, deep down inside, wants. Yes, we would like to win races and improve our times, but in the end it's about running as long and as much as possible. Keep going till you can't go no more!!!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Fanatic?
So far, I've had several people send me an article about the woman who ran the Chicago marathon while 39 weeks pregnant (she gave birth a few hours after finishing the race). At first, I was a little confused. I am not pregnant and I was not lucky enough to run the Chicago marathon. Then I realized a great thing: when my friends and family think of marathons, they think of me.
That makes me smile.
In October 2008, I completed my very first marathon: the Marine Corps Marathon. Since then, I have completed 2 (soon to be 3) half marathons, 5 ten-milers, 10-15 10ks and 5ks, 5 marathons, 2 ultra-marathons, and one triathlon. I feel like that's a great start. Now let's keep going!!
Who wants to be on my race crew for this in 2013?
That makes me smile.
In October 2008, I completed my very first marathon: the Marine Corps Marathon. Since then, I have completed 2 (soon to be 3) half marathons, 5 ten-milers, 10-15 10ks and 5ks, 5 marathons, 2 ultra-marathons, and one triathlon. I feel like that's a great start. Now let's keep going!!
Who wants to be on my race crew for this in 2013?
Friday, September 23, 2011
How "hacer jogging" made me run
I was thinking a lot during my Philly half marathon this past weekend. I was also running super fast (for me) and clocked in at 1:46:32. Basically, 8 minute miles, back to back, for 13.1 miles. I am quite pleased :)
But what was really on my mind was my time in Spain. I studied in Madrid 5 years ago this fall and stayed with a lovely couple named Babis and Emilio. They treated me like one of their children and took extremely good care of me. They encouraged me to go out, enjoy Spain. They cooked for me, did my laundry (hung my underwear up to dry in the kitchen...), and took care of my when I was sick. I absolutely adored them.
But one thing that always irked me was how casually they viewed my running. By the time I went to Spain, I was pretty firmly invested in my running. I wasn't doing races, but I did run 3-4 times a week. I had the cool clothes, the cool shoes. I took myself somewhat seriously. So whenever it was time for me to hit the pavement, I would say that I was going to "correr." Correr in Spanish means to RUN. My host dad would always respond with how good it was to "hacer jogging." Basically cut me down a size, counter my enthusiasm for running with his belief that I was really only jogging.
Good grief, I really hated that.
It really irritated me to think that I was being classified as a "jogger" when I really believed myself to be a "runner." As someone who loves fitness in all forms, I have nothing really AGAINST joggers. It's just that I don't want to be one. I want to be a RUNNER. Jogging brings to mind velour tracksuits and soccer moms. Someday I'll be a granny and I'll jog. Now I am 25 and I wear shorty shorts and by gosh, I run. Running brings to mind athletes and wild cats. I want to be the wild cat. And during this last race, I really felt like I was. I was passing people, keeping my pace despite a nagging pull in my knee (it's totally gone, I swear). And at the end, I sprinted.
I absolutely refuse to be a jogger. I will not jog - I will only run.
But what was really on my mind was my time in Spain. I studied in Madrid 5 years ago this fall and stayed with a lovely couple named Babis and Emilio. They treated me like one of their children and took extremely good care of me. They encouraged me to go out, enjoy Spain. They cooked for me, did my laundry (hung my underwear up to dry in the kitchen...), and took care of my when I was sick. I absolutely adored them.
But one thing that always irked me was how casually they viewed my running. By the time I went to Spain, I was pretty firmly invested in my running. I wasn't doing races, but I did run 3-4 times a week. I had the cool clothes, the cool shoes. I took myself somewhat seriously. So whenever it was time for me to hit the pavement, I would say that I was going to "correr." Correr in Spanish means to RUN. My host dad would always respond with how good it was to "hacer jogging." Basically cut me down a size, counter my enthusiasm for running with his belief that I was really only jogging.
Good grief, I really hated that.
It really irritated me to think that I was being classified as a "jogger" when I really believed myself to be a "runner." As someone who loves fitness in all forms, I have nothing really AGAINST joggers. It's just that I don't want to be one. I want to be a RUNNER. Jogging brings to mind velour tracksuits and soccer moms. Someday I'll be a granny and I'll jog. Now I am 25 and I wear shorty shorts and by gosh, I run. Running brings to mind athletes and wild cats. I want to be the wild cat. And during this last race, I really felt like I was. I was passing people, keeping my pace despite a nagging pull in my knee (it's totally gone, I swear). And at the end, I sprinted.
I absolutely refuse to be a jogger. I will not jog - I will only run.
Monday, August 1, 2011
50.4 Miles
It's been 2 full weeks since the 20in24 Back On My Feet Ultramarathon. The weather was perfect. It was a beautiful, hot, sunny day in July. I ran 50.4 miles in a blissful state with absolutely no problems.
Haha just kidding. This was definitely a challenge. But I am happy to report that I pushed through and completed my goal of 50 miles!
I arrived on Friday and went to have my vitals checked. They do this just in case you run into any major problems during the 24 hour race (not that anyone ever has any problems in a situation like this). Oddly enough, the same man who checked my vitals this year was the one who did it last year. Even weirder, we remembered each other. Boy did we get a good laugh out of that. *awkward pause.*
Then my mom and I walked around Philly and got a burrito for dinner. Now before you all go nuts here, let me tell you something. I sincerely believe that a Chipotle burrito, when properly assembled, will give you far more and far superior energy than a plate of pasta. Yes. Correct. Burrito>pasta for a marathon, ultramarathon, or triathlon. Of course, I get a vegetarian one and I do not put sour cream on it. But I do include lots of beans, rice, and veggies. Combine the power of beans with the carbs of a HUGE tortilla and rice and it's a no brainer. Also, let's not be too graphic here, but it goes out easy the next morning...
I could NOT sleep the night before the race. I was going insane - I had two horrible dreams about the race. In one, I dreamed that part of the race was flooded and we had to swim it. In another, I dreamed that I had only gone 16 miles in the first 12 hours.
After finally waking up and convincing myself that the race hadn't started yet, I couldn't bring myself to eat very much. Nerves and lack of sleep put an achy rock in my stomach and no food wanted to enter. And no, this has nothing to do with my burrito. Stop it with the burrito-hating, guys. Burritos are our friends.
And then...we were off! I found my mom a shady spot to park and after she spent enough time worrying over me, I started the race in full force! I wore my spiffy camelback and a new outfit picked out just for me by my mommy. There was nothing more to want. A full day of running fun awaited me.
Except it sucked. The first lap left me hungry and tired but I knew that if I took a break already, I would want to give up. So I told the nice folks keeping time that I was heading out for another one. I waved to my mom and pressed on. And then promptly rolled my ankle. In mid stride. There was no catalyst. I just landed on my foot wrong and collapsed onto the lawn by the Rocky statue.
Overweight tourists looked at me with concern. What was this strange woman doing lying on the sidewalk with a number pinned to her chest? What was up with the backpack? Runners passed me with a quick, "are you ok?" Sure. I'm fine. I'm really having a great time here, SUCH a great time in fact, that I decided to just lie on the grass for a few minutes doubled over. I'm just PRETENDING to be in pain.
But I really wasn't interested in stopping or in a side of pity, so after the pain subsided, I kept going. Which was vaguely stupid because then my knee started to hurt, but there was nothing else to do. I could walk the half mile back to the start and take a break, but I knew that if I stopped, I'd want to go home.
After a grueling, limpy gimpy lap, I told the nice people keeping track of time that I was going to take a break. I went over to my mom and promptly, maturely started to bawl. It was a really grown up crying that consisted of, "blwarwhg washse sniffle Wanna go home!!!"
So guys, this is where it gets really deep. My mom had insisted on coming and so did my boyfriend (who smartly missed the cryfest by driving up on Saturday instead of Friday). They were both convinced that I would die if they did not come. And you know what? I would have given up if my mom hadn't been there to console me and get me to snap out of it. She told me to go get my foot wrapped (I did). She told me that I could do it (I did. Eventually). She told me I wanted it (I did). And I got back out there and I ran another two laps.
I only took two breaks - one initial break of 2 hours and then a second 1 hour break to eat. The entire race I was hungry but not hungry enough to eat. It was painful and kept my energy low. If (when) I do another one of these, I need to take MORE FOOD. Peanut butter sandwiches just won't cut it and Clif bars don't taste so great after you had 3. Or even just half of one...
But anyway back to my foot. I went to the medical tent and had them wrap my ankle (they were nice enough to tell me that 16 miles was impressive. I knew the truth. Nothing short of 50 is impressive). And then I bounded out onto the trail again, complete with ankle and knee brace. But...they wrapped it too tight. So after the first mile, I once again sat down on the grass (this time not doubled over). I yanked my shoe off and started to tear at the tape but man, they were good. After a few minutes two volunteers on bikes stopped by to assist me. However, being the good citizens that they were, they were not carrying a pocket knife. Nor did they have a pair of scissors. However, they both offered keys so there I sat, tearing away at my bandages with my entourage and their housekeys. But that didn't really do too much good and after another few minutes, the medic truck stopped by. Now these guys had some serious scissors. So by this point, I had 4 people standing over me, watching my undo my bandages. I felt a strange sense of importance and humiliation. There's really no feeling quite like it. But they didn't make me stop running and they even took my sweaty, gross bandages to throw away. This race has absolutely, hands down, THE BEST volunteers on the planet.
So I kept running/running walking and finally started pacing with an older guy. He had done 60+ ultramarathons. I was blown away. How does someone even make the time to do that many?? It definitely helped to have someone to chat with for a while and I finished my second 16 in pretty good time. At this point, boyfriend had arrived and was able to convince me to eat a little bit more.
The final lap was amazing. My mom and my boyfriend went out and paced with me, thank goodness. Philly was a dark place in the middle of the night and I was so happy not to be alone. Of course you wouldn't know that because I might have been whining most of the time (the first 40+ miles were awfully lonely without anyone to complain to). Eventually we met up with another lone ranger who was attempting 50 miles. I was one lap ahead of him and we were all shuffling together for the last few miles. I was happy that we were with him because he was all alone and it seemed unsafe. A lot of lights were out on the path and we were told that someone was mugged along the race course (yay urban running)! I felt bad that I had only to reach the finish line to finish while he would have to plow ahead...but not bad enough to go out for another jaunt with him.
When we got to the last few hundred meters, I was able to run to the finish line. I kept expecting to feel exhilirated or overjoyed or to cry from relief. But mostly I just wanted to sit down. Maybe I am not as an emotional runner as I thought. In any case, I was so happy to be done!!
Initially, I was disappointed in the medal. It's not a medal, but more of a plaque. I had really wanted something to hang around my neck, but it was not to be. However, now I'm really happy to have something unique for my 50 miles. It's sitting proudly in my apartment with a place of honor next to some cat toys. It's a nice reminder of the day, but the memories are much dearer to me. It was an insane, painful, and fun day that I never could have done without the support of my family and friends. I am excited to run 50 miles again and look forward to doing another ultra in the near futue :)
Who wants in?
Haha just kidding. This was definitely a challenge. But I am happy to report that I pushed through and completed my goal of 50 miles!
I arrived on Friday and went to have my vitals checked. They do this just in case you run into any major problems during the 24 hour race (not that anyone ever has any problems in a situation like this). Oddly enough, the same man who checked my vitals this year was the one who did it last year. Even weirder, we remembered each other. Boy did we get a good laugh out of that. *awkward pause.*
Then my mom and I walked around Philly and got a burrito for dinner. Now before you all go nuts here, let me tell you something. I sincerely believe that a Chipotle burrito, when properly assembled, will give you far more and far superior energy than a plate of pasta. Yes. Correct. Burrito>pasta for a marathon, ultramarathon, or triathlon. Of course, I get a vegetarian one and I do not put sour cream on it. But I do include lots of beans, rice, and veggies. Combine the power of beans with the carbs of a HUGE tortilla and rice and it's a no brainer. Also, let's not be too graphic here, but it goes out easy the next morning...
I could NOT sleep the night before the race. I was going insane - I had two horrible dreams about the race. In one, I dreamed that part of the race was flooded and we had to swim it. In another, I dreamed that I had only gone 16 miles in the first 12 hours.
After finally waking up and convincing myself that the race hadn't started yet, I couldn't bring myself to eat very much. Nerves and lack of sleep put an achy rock in my stomach and no food wanted to enter. And no, this has nothing to do with my burrito. Stop it with the burrito-hating, guys. Burritos are our friends.
And then...we were off! I found my mom a shady spot to park and after she spent enough time worrying over me, I started the race in full force! I wore my spiffy camelback and a new outfit picked out just for me by my mommy. There was nothing more to want. A full day of running fun awaited me.
Except it sucked. The first lap left me hungry and tired but I knew that if I took a break already, I would want to give up. So I told the nice folks keeping time that I was heading out for another one. I waved to my mom and pressed on. And then promptly rolled my ankle. In mid stride. There was no catalyst. I just landed on my foot wrong and collapsed onto the lawn by the Rocky statue.
Overweight tourists looked at me with concern. What was this strange woman doing lying on the sidewalk with a number pinned to her chest? What was up with the backpack? Runners passed me with a quick, "are you ok?" Sure. I'm fine. I'm really having a great time here, SUCH a great time in fact, that I decided to just lie on the grass for a few minutes doubled over. I'm just PRETENDING to be in pain.
But I really wasn't interested in stopping or in a side of pity, so after the pain subsided, I kept going. Which was vaguely stupid because then my knee started to hurt, but there was nothing else to do. I could walk the half mile back to the start and take a break, but I knew that if I stopped, I'd want to go home.
After a grueling, limpy gimpy lap, I told the nice people keeping track of time that I was going to take a break. I went over to my mom and promptly, maturely started to bawl. It was a really grown up crying that consisted of, "blwarwhg washse sniffle Wanna go home!!!"
So guys, this is where it gets really deep. My mom had insisted on coming and so did my boyfriend (who smartly missed the cryfest by driving up on Saturday instead of Friday). They were both convinced that I would die if they did not come. And you know what? I would have given up if my mom hadn't been there to console me and get me to snap out of it. She told me to go get my foot wrapped (I did). She told me that I could do it (I did. Eventually). She told me I wanted it (I did). And I got back out there and I ran another two laps.
I only took two breaks - one initial break of 2 hours and then a second 1 hour break to eat. The entire race I was hungry but not hungry enough to eat. It was painful and kept my energy low. If (when) I do another one of these, I need to take MORE FOOD. Peanut butter sandwiches just won't cut it and Clif bars don't taste so great after you had 3. Or even just half of one...
But anyway back to my foot. I went to the medical tent and had them wrap my ankle (they were nice enough to tell me that 16 miles was impressive. I knew the truth. Nothing short of 50 is impressive). And then I bounded out onto the trail again, complete with ankle and knee brace. But...they wrapped it too tight. So after the first mile, I once again sat down on the grass (this time not doubled over). I yanked my shoe off and started to tear at the tape but man, they were good. After a few minutes two volunteers on bikes stopped by to assist me. However, being the good citizens that they were, they were not carrying a pocket knife. Nor did they have a pair of scissors. However, they both offered keys so there I sat, tearing away at my bandages with my entourage and their housekeys. But that didn't really do too much good and after another few minutes, the medic truck stopped by. Now these guys had some serious scissors. So by this point, I had 4 people standing over me, watching my undo my bandages. I felt a strange sense of importance and humiliation. There's really no feeling quite like it. But they didn't make me stop running and they even took my sweaty, gross bandages to throw away. This race has absolutely, hands down, THE BEST volunteers on the planet.
So I kept running/running walking and finally started pacing with an older guy. He had done 60+ ultramarathons. I was blown away. How does someone even make the time to do that many?? It definitely helped to have someone to chat with for a while and I finished my second 16 in pretty good time. At this point, boyfriend had arrived and was able to convince me to eat a little bit more.
The final lap was amazing. My mom and my boyfriend went out and paced with me, thank goodness. Philly was a dark place in the middle of the night and I was so happy not to be alone. Of course you wouldn't know that because I might have been whining most of the time (the first 40+ miles were awfully lonely without anyone to complain to). Eventually we met up with another lone ranger who was attempting 50 miles. I was one lap ahead of him and we were all shuffling together for the last few miles. I was happy that we were with him because he was all alone and it seemed unsafe. A lot of lights were out on the path and we were told that someone was mugged along the race course (yay urban running)! I felt bad that I had only to reach the finish line to finish while he would have to plow ahead...but not bad enough to go out for another jaunt with him.
When we got to the last few hundred meters, I was able to run to the finish line. I kept expecting to feel exhilirated or overjoyed or to cry from relief. But mostly I just wanted to sit down. Maybe I am not as an emotional runner as I thought. In any case, I was so happy to be done!!
Initially, I was disappointed in the medal. It's not a medal, but more of a plaque. I had really wanted something to hang around my neck, but it was not to be. However, now I'm really happy to have something unique for my 50 miles. It's sitting proudly in my apartment with a place of honor next to some cat toys. It's a nice reminder of the day, but the memories are much dearer to me. It was an insane, painful, and fun day that I never could have done without the support of my family and friends. I am excited to run 50 miles again and look forward to doing another ultra in the near futue :)
Who wants in?
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
No fall marathon?!?!?!
I made a foolish choice this year and hedged my bets on the New York Marathon. And I did not get in. Unfortunately, in the time it took for them to let me know, I missed registration for the Marine Corps and the Chicago marathons. Now I find that I'm somewhat uninterested in trying to find a replacement one. It seems very strange not to have one looming in the future (of course, it would be overshadowed anyway by the ultramarathon approaching this July).
So instead, I am signing up for half marathons. So far, I have one in September and one in October. One with my mom (Philly Rock N Roll) and one in Hershey, PA - chocolate AND running!!!! I am pretty pumped and I am hoping that I can improve my speed by doing a few shorter races.
This past weekend, I did a 10 mile race in Baltimore. It was a lot more hilly than expected, but I finished in 1:28:08. I am at the point where I am in the top 100 for my age/gender group and sometimes even better (placing 22nd out of 745 with a pace of 7:07/mile for a 5k). I am pretty proud of that. If I could work on my speed AND my distance, I think I could really step it up in my marathons.
The thing about that, however, is that if you want to improve your marathon time you have to actually DO a marathon...
So instead, I am signing up for half marathons. So far, I have one in September and one in October. One with my mom (Philly Rock N Roll) and one in Hershey, PA - chocolate AND running!!!! I am pretty pumped and I am hoping that I can improve my speed by doing a few shorter races.
This past weekend, I did a 10 mile race in Baltimore. It was a lot more hilly than expected, but I finished in 1:28:08. I am at the point where I am in the top 100 for my age/gender group and sometimes even better (placing 22nd out of 745 with a pace of 7:07/mile for a 5k). I am pretty proud of that. If I could work on my speed AND my distance, I think I could really step it up in my marathons.
The thing about that, however, is that if you want to improve your marathon time you have to actually DO a marathon...
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Every little thing
This morning, I went for an 8 mile run before work. It was beautiful - last night, it rained and the paths by my house were empty for the most part. Only a few other brave souls woke up and convinced themselves that it would be a good idea to go out and seize the day. I am always so glad when I do make it out in the morning, but it can definitely be a challenge.
My mom came to visit me this past weekend, therefore I was wearing a new pair of shoes (I actually got TWO new pairs of running sneakers but this isn't about bragging). The pair I was wearing this morning are amazing - they are a bright baby blue and just look so cool (since we're bragging, did I mention that my mom is the best?*). But as I was rolling along, I realized that my foot hurt. I was really in pain. I considered turning around. I saw my running life flash before my eyes. Then I remembered that when I had tied my shoes this morning, I had tied my left shoe a little bit too snugly. At the time, I didn't consider that this would cause me serious pain in the arch of my foot. But it did!! As soon as I stopped and retied the shoe a bit looser, I was fine. And finished my 8 miles.
It just goes to show how important training is. You have to learn your body's needs, you have to learn how to adapt to different situations and crises. One little thing goes wrong and suddenly you think you have to quit. It's finding a way around quitting that seperates the marathoners from the rest of the world. Come my friends. Join me.
*While we're on the subject of MamaMennone....she is going to do a half marathon with me this fall!!!
My mom came to visit me this past weekend, therefore I was wearing a new pair of shoes (I actually got TWO new pairs of running sneakers but this isn't about bragging). The pair I was wearing this morning are amazing - they are a bright baby blue and just look so cool (since we're bragging, did I mention that my mom is the best?*). But as I was rolling along, I realized that my foot hurt. I was really in pain. I considered turning around. I saw my running life flash before my eyes. Then I remembered that when I had tied my shoes this morning, I had tied my left shoe a little bit too snugly. At the time, I didn't consider that this would cause me serious pain in the arch of my foot. But it did!! As soon as I stopped and retied the shoe a bit looser, I was fine. And finished my 8 miles.
It just goes to show how important training is. You have to learn your body's needs, you have to learn how to adapt to different situations and crises. One little thing goes wrong and suddenly you think you have to quit. It's finding a way around quitting that seperates the marathoners from the rest of the world. Come my friends. Join me.
*While we're on the subject of MamaMennone....she is going to do a half marathon with me this fall!!!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Ramblings
I like to do stuff just to do it. I planned a trip to China not particularly because I had a huge yearning to go to China, but because I really wanted to check it off my life list. I like to do stuff. I wanted to go, but I wanted to go just to go. I think life is too short to leave off anything just because it seems hard, or far away. There are some problems to my approach though. It can mean that if something doesn't interest me, it means I don't want to do it. I drag my feet. I avoid it like the plague. But that's not really the best solution. It also means that I often do something, like a triathlon, just to the point of surviving it. Sure, I finished a triathlon, but I didn't really do very well. I trained just enough to squeeze by, but not enough to triumph. And the biggest problem that I usually encounter is that once I finally finish it, I discard it. I cross it off my list and wipe my hands off (or take a shower, if it's dirty enough).
Marathons though, I've stuck with. I've done five now and I'm going to keep doing them. Maybe I won't always do them incredibly fast (fastly?), but I'm going to continue to do marathons until my knees have to be replaced and even then I'll do some more.
AND MORE RAMBLINGS.
5ks. I've never been a fan. 3.1 miles? Why bother? But I signed up for a series of 5ks on Fridays in April by my new apartment. And it was SO MUCH FUN. My goal was just to improve my time every week. I did meet this goal (ok I skipped one week, but I did do 4) and I did much better than I expected to. I ended up coming in 22nd out of 745 women in the last race, clocking in at 22:20. TWENTY TWO MINUTES. That is 7 minute miles!
Maybe now I will do more 5ks. I would really like to get faster overall. Maybe if I keep doing fast 5ks, my marathon time will improve!
WHO KNOWS??? THE WORLD IS NOT READY FOR ME TO CONTINUE DOING STUFF!
Marathons though, I've stuck with. I've done five now and I'm going to keep doing them. Maybe I won't always do them incredibly fast (fastly?), but I'm going to continue to do marathons until my knees have to be replaced and even then I'll do some more.
AND MORE RAMBLINGS.
5ks. I've never been a fan. 3.1 miles? Why bother? But I signed up for a series of 5ks on Fridays in April by my new apartment. And it was SO MUCH FUN. My goal was just to improve my time every week. I did meet this goal (ok I skipped one week, but I did do 4) and I did much better than I expected to. I ended up coming in 22nd out of 745 women in the last race, clocking in at 22:20. TWENTY TWO MINUTES. That is 7 minute miles!
Maybe now I will do more 5ks. I would really like to get faster overall. Maybe if I keep doing fast 5ks, my marathon time will improve!
WHO KNOWS??? THE WORLD IS NOT READY FOR ME TO CONTINUE DOING STUFF!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Who needs New York?
New York. What a stupid, ugly, crowded city. Who would want to do a marathon there anyway?
....me....
Sadly, I did not win the lottery to run in the NY Marathon this year. And because I had to wait until yesterday to find out, I missed registration for the Marine Corps Marathon and the Chicago Marathon, neither of which require a lottery system. I could have a guaranteed spot in either, but instead I have to consider options like Philly, Baltimore, or Richmond. Or I could do the Nike Women's again and lose my ankles to the hills. But I probably won't do that.
Now, do I hold a grudge against both London and NY and never apply to their lotteries again? Decisions, decisions...guess I better go visit each city to see if it's worth it. London in June. Maybe NYC in July?
....me....
Sadly, I did not win the lottery to run in the NY Marathon this year. And because I had to wait until yesterday to find out, I missed registration for the Marine Corps Marathon and the Chicago Marathon, neither of which require a lottery system. I could have a guaranteed spot in either, but instead I have to consider options like Philly, Baltimore, or Richmond. Or I could do the Nike Women's again and lose my ankles to the hills. But I probably won't do that.
Now, do I hold a grudge against both London and NY and never apply to their lotteries again? Decisions, decisions...guess I better go visit each city to see if it's worth it. London in June. Maybe NYC in July?
Thursday, March 31, 2011
DC Marathon, 2011
Last year, I PR'ed in the DC marathon. This year was not quite as fast. However, I really wasn't properly trained, so I was happy to finish at all.
DC Marathons really beat me up though. Last year I had to go to the medic tent at the end for anti-nausea medicine. This year I had to go to one during the race and have them wrap my knee. I've never had knee issues, so it was painful and worrying to suddenly develop one. I've also never stopped at a medic station during a race, so I was worried they would tell me I couldn't keep running. No fear though! The girl who wrapped my knee was incredibly nice. I told her, "you're my hero!" which maybe weirded her out a little, but there is no way I could have finished the race without having the knee wrapped!
Currently, I am experiencing no knee pain, so don't worry about little old me.
This weekend is the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile run. I can't wait to run with my mom again! We had so much fun last year and I'm really looking forward to doing it again. Also, I moved from the hood of DC to Pentagon City (yes, I can see Macy's from my apartment) and therefore I could sign up for the Crystal City 5k Friday races in April...so now I have 3 races in the course of 8 days. I'm positive that this will help me kick start my running, prep me for the 24 hour race in July, and in general make me a better person.
High hopes.
DC Marathons really beat me up though. Last year I had to go to the medic tent at the end for anti-nausea medicine. This year I had to go to one during the race and have them wrap my knee. I've never had knee issues, so it was painful and worrying to suddenly develop one. I've also never stopped at a medic station during a race, so I was worried they would tell me I couldn't keep running. No fear though! The girl who wrapped my knee was incredibly nice. I told her, "you're my hero!" which maybe weirded her out a little, but there is no way I could have finished the race without having the knee wrapped!
Currently, I am experiencing no knee pain, so don't worry about little old me.
This weekend is the Cherry Blossom 10 Mile run. I can't wait to run with my mom again! We had so much fun last year and I'm really looking forward to doing it again. Also, I moved from the hood of DC to Pentagon City (yes, I can see Macy's from my apartment) and therefore I could sign up for the Crystal City 5k Friday races in April...so now I have 3 races in the course of 8 days. I'm positive that this will help me kick start my running, prep me for the 24 hour race in July, and in general make me a better person.
High hopes.
Friday, March 11, 2011
What women want (are you overcompensating for something here?)
There is a great scene in the terrible movie "What Women Want" where Helen Hunt's character is thinking of a pitch for Nike's women's division. In her head she's describing a woman running: "She's running. It's early, it's quiet. Just the sound of her feet on the asphalt. She likes to run alone. No pressure, no stress. This is the one place she can be herself. Look any way she wants, dress, think any way she wants. No game playing, no rules."
This is how I feel about running. You can be yourself. No one is judging you. That is running. You're not the person who didn't get into grad school, or the person who messed something up at home or at work. You're the runner.
Sometimes, the only reason why I continue to run is because I feel like it's the only thing I'm capable of doing. Sometimes every other part of my life feels like I'm failing or stupid or incompetent. Running saves me from that. When I tell people that I run marathons or that I'm training for an ultramarathon, then they listen to me. Then they think I'm important. The truth is that I'm not even that good at running, but at least when you're running all that matters is that you reach the finish line.
This is how I feel about running. You can be yourself. No one is judging you. That is running. You're not the person who didn't get into grad school, or the person who messed something up at home or at work. You're the runner.
Sometimes, the only reason why I continue to run is because I feel like it's the only thing I'm capable of doing. Sometimes every other part of my life feels like I'm failing or stupid or incompetent. Running saves me from that. When I tell people that I run marathons or that I'm training for an ultramarathon, then they listen to me. Then they think I'm important. The truth is that I'm not even that good at running, but at least when you're running all that matters is that you reach the finish line.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Feeling old
I have been seriously sore lately. My feet hurt. My hips hurt. I was moping around thinking about all the serious, irreparable damage I've probably done to my body when suddenly it hit me:
I'm probably just getting old.
I mean, let's face it. The body of a 22 year old is unfortunately much younger than a body of a 25 year old. Especially a 25 year old with insomnia. Now, I know I'm being slightly melodramatic here, but isn't part of it just that my body is wearing down slightly with age and the running aggrevates this?
I've been an incredibly lucky runner. I have not sustained any serious injuries and I still have ALL of my toenails. I've never even lost one. Although my feet hurt, they have not become all scummy and ugly like some runners that you see. I've learned how quickly you can heal from minor cuts/rubs that you might get while wearing a sports bra or slightly too short socks (usually less than a week). After 42 miles in 24 hours last year, I walked right out of the hotel. I didn't shuffle. I walked. (ok I didn't run either, but let's give me SOME credit).
Sometimes I feel like I'm really missing out on part of the running experience by not having these horrible stories to tell (I lost my toenail in the middle of a date and he found it in is salad!). But as I grow sore, I'm more than thankful that I have had almost 3 great years of running pain free.
Now that I am finally starting to feel the effects, I am trying to be more careful. Instead of skipping the stretching completely, I've been trying to throw some in there (not too much though). I'm trying to focus on eating better meals instead of going with "I can eat whatever I want because I'll run it off," because ultimately, running will feel better if I have the right nutrition in me. I'm trying to sleep more and be gentler on my body.
But let's face it - there will just be sore days. I've never been one of those people who would push through an injury if I got one. I don't eat complete garbage all the time (although there are and probably always will be the occasional dinner of ice cream sandwiches) and in general I eat pretty healthy foods. I do recreational yoga on a more regular basis than I'd prefer to admit (at LEAST once every 3 months). So why don't I just cut myself a break, take a bubble bath, and continue my running?
Why, I think I will do just that.
I'm probably just getting old.
I mean, let's face it. The body of a 22 year old is unfortunately much younger than a body of a 25 year old. Especially a 25 year old with insomnia. Now, I know I'm being slightly melodramatic here, but isn't part of it just that my body is wearing down slightly with age and the running aggrevates this?
I've been an incredibly lucky runner. I have not sustained any serious injuries and I still have ALL of my toenails. I've never even lost one. Although my feet hurt, they have not become all scummy and ugly like some runners that you see. I've learned how quickly you can heal from minor cuts/rubs that you might get while wearing a sports bra or slightly too short socks (usually less than a week). After 42 miles in 24 hours last year, I walked right out of the hotel. I didn't shuffle. I walked. (ok I didn't run either, but let's give me SOME credit).
Sometimes I feel like I'm really missing out on part of the running experience by not having these horrible stories to tell (I lost my toenail in the middle of a date and he found it in is salad!). But as I grow sore, I'm more than thankful that I have had almost 3 great years of running pain free.
Now that I am finally starting to feel the effects, I am trying to be more careful. Instead of skipping the stretching completely, I've been trying to throw some in there (not too much though). I'm trying to focus on eating better meals instead of going with "I can eat whatever I want because I'll run it off," because ultimately, running will feel better if I have the right nutrition in me. I'm trying to sleep more and be gentler on my body.
But let's face it - there will just be sore days. I've never been one of those people who would push through an injury if I got one. I don't eat complete garbage all the time (although there are and probably always will be the occasional dinner of ice cream sandwiches) and in general I eat pretty healthy foods. I do recreational yoga on a more regular basis than I'd prefer to admit (at LEAST once every 3 months). So why don't I just cut myself a break, take a bubble bath, and continue my running?
Why, I think I will do just that.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Let's get some stuff straight
Ok, let's get it straight.
I'm not going to bow out of the DC marathon next month.
I'm not going to stop running.
I am not going to stop running.
It's been kind of a tough winter. I've been tired and sore and fat. But I refuse to give up on running marathons or more. This is going to be my 5th marathon! I love running in DC. I love RUNNING.
And let's get some more straight while we're on a roll.
Listen up, friends, enemies, and strangers: if you ride out the elliptical at the gym for 45 minutes, do NOT say that you just ran 5 miles. You did NOT run. You ellipticalled. Good job. I'm sorry, but that machine practically runs itself. You are not running. It DOES NOT COUNT. People keep telling me that they ran 5 miles in 40 minutes and I'm just in awe - wow, there's nothing wrong with America! We're not obese! We're doing great! NO. We ARE obese and I'm sorry but you cannot claim that you ran. Yes. You went to the gym. Good job. It's a step. But it's not running.
I have to say that even though I haven't been running as much as I should be, I'm still super defensive against people acting like they ran when just WENT ON the elliptical. I do that on a rest day.
Boo to everyone. I just had 2 ice cream sandwiches. I also had green beans. So it balances out, right?
Darn it, I didn't think so either.
I'm not going to bow out of the DC marathon next month.
I'm not going to stop running.
I am not going to stop running.
It's been kind of a tough winter. I've been tired and sore and fat. But I refuse to give up on running marathons or more. This is going to be my 5th marathon! I love running in DC. I love RUNNING.
And let's get some more straight while we're on a roll.
Listen up, friends, enemies, and strangers: if you ride out the elliptical at the gym for 45 minutes, do NOT say that you just ran 5 miles. You did NOT run. You ellipticalled. Good job. I'm sorry, but that machine practically runs itself. You are not running. It DOES NOT COUNT. People keep telling me that they ran 5 miles in 40 minutes and I'm just in awe - wow, there's nothing wrong with America! We're not obese! We're doing great! NO. We ARE obese and I'm sorry but you cannot claim that you ran. Yes. You went to the gym. Good job. It's a step. But it's not running.
I have to say that even though I haven't been running as much as I should be, I'm still super defensive against people acting like they ran when just WENT ON the elliptical. I do that on a rest day.
Boo to everyone. I just had 2 ice cream sandwiches. I also had green beans. So it balances out, right?
Darn it, I didn't think so either.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
What if I stopped running?
I'm tired. It's cold outside. My job is keeping me too busy. 26.2 miles is SO MANY MILES.
Why the heck did I sign up for a marathon next month?
I am really considering bowing out of this one. I'm still signed up for the 24 hour race, so it's not like I would just STOP running. But what if I did? What if suddenly, I no longer did marathons or 5ks or 10 mile races? What if MarathonMennone turned into just...Mennone?
It's a tempting thought sometimes, but it's also terrifying. Running has become a huge part of my identity. It keeps me focused and gives me a hobby other than "watching reruns of the Real Housewives." It is a much more remarkable hobby and it makes me feel special when I tell people "I run marathons." But I'm also just really tired...maybe 3 marathons a year is just too much for me. But at the same time...maybe it's not enough?
I know that I probably will not skip this marathon. But I need something to motivate me and I haven't been able to find it yet. Any suggestions?
Why the heck did I sign up for a marathon next month?
I am really considering bowing out of this one. I'm still signed up for the 24 hour race, so it's not like I would just STOP running. But what if I did? What if suddenly, I no longer did marathons or 5ks or 10 mile races? What if MarathonMennone turned into just...Mennone?
It's a tempting thought sometimes, but it's also terrifying. Running has become a huge part of my identity. It keeps me focused and gives me a hobby other than "watching reruns of the Real Housewives." It is a much more remarkable hobby and it makes me feel special when I tell people "I run marathons." But I'm also just really tired...maybe 3 marathons a year is just too much for me. But at the same time...maybe it's not enough?
I know that I probably will not skip this marathon. But I need something to motivate me and I haven't been able to find it yet. Any suggestions?
Monday, January 31, 2011
Needed: more bang. less buck.
Have you noticed that I hate winter?
I am completed unmotivated to run. There. I said it. I don't want to run. I want to sit inside and eat ice cream.
EXCEPT I DON'T. I just want the snow to melt so that I can go outside and not worry about breaking my hip. So naturally, to motivate myself to run, my thought is "better buy some cool stuff." Like a new GPS/tracking system to see how far I go. Like new shoes. Like a new running outfit. Like a new hat. Like a new Kate Spade purse...oh so pretty...wait, wait focus, FOCUS.
But unfortunately, I know that the only thing that will get me to run is to start running already. Just get out there on a regular basis and move my feet one step at a time. Sure it's nice to have the cool accessories. But if you don't train, you'll just be the dofus who makes it to mile 8 of a marathon and bows out. And you'll have a useless, albeit beautiful, Kate Spade bag full of GU.
Let's move it, move it!
I am completed unmotivated to run. There. I said it. I don't want to run. I want to sit inside and eat ice cream.
EXCEPT I DON'T. I just want the snow to melt so that I can go outside and not worry about breaking my hip. So naturally, to motivate myself to run, my thought is "better buy some cool stuff." Like a new GPS/tracking system to see how far I go. Like new shoes. Like a new running outfit. Like a new hat. Like a new Kate Spade purse...oh so pretty...wait, wait focus, FOCUS.
But unfortunately, I know that the only thing that will get me to run is to start running already. Just get out there on a regular basis and move my feet one step at a time. Sure it's nice to have the cool accessories. But if you don't train, you'll just be the dofus who makes it to mile 8 of a marathon and bows out. And you'll have a useless, albeit beautiful, Kate Spade bag full of GU.
Let's move it, move it!
Friday, January 21, 2011
This is NOT a democracy.
So you remember how I made you all vote for which race I should do this spring?
And how NONE of you voted for the DC marathon?
Well friends...this is not a democracy. This is a Mennocracy. I'm doing the DC marathon!
Holy crap, I better get serious about training!!!!!!
And how NONE of you voted for the DC marathon?
Well friends...this is not a democracy. This is a Mennocracy. I'm doing the DC marathon!
Holy crap, I better get serious about training!!!!!!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
So much for gung ho...
It's cooold. I don't LIKE being cold.
Feeling whiney and unmotivated. Will signing up for a marathon help? I haven't decided yet, but I have become the proud new owner of a pair of Nike Free bright pink sneakers. They are pretty awesome, but using new minimalist shoes means that I'm doing shorter runs and using the excuse that I'm "adjusting." I really don't think it's that hard. I haven't felt incredible pain in my calves. So I really need to step it up.
I have chickened out as of now in buying the Vibram 5 fingers, but I am going to go with the Bilka when I do finally decide to take the plunge.
Marathon in March? Anyone? Chime in here?
Feeling whiney and unmotivated. Will signing up for a marathon help? I haven't decided yet, but I have become the proud new owner of a pair of Nike Free bright pink sneakers. They are pretty awesome, but using new minimalist shoes means that I'm doing shorter runs and using the excuse that I'm "adjusting." I really don't think it's that hard. I haven't felt incredible pain in my calves. So I really need to step it up.
I have chickened out as of now in buying the Vibram 5 fingers, but I am going to go with the Bilka when I do finally decide to take the plunge.
Marathon in March? Anyone? Chime in here?
Monday, January 3, 2011
Ringing in the new year...barefoot.
Hello, my name is Sarah and I haven't blogged in 2 months.
Welcome back and happy 2011! What a fun and wonderful year this will be! So far, I have already decided that this will be the year of barefoot running. Yesterday, I went and tried on my first pair of Vibram 5 Fingers. First of all, the name "Vibram" is quite sexy. Kind of sounds like vibrator. Amazing. Then it really is like "5 fingers" - there is a spot for each of your toes. Which sounds weird and personally made me think it would be super uncomfortable because I happen to not be a huge toe person. BUT they are surprisingly comfortable and felt AMAZING for the 8 foot jog I took them around the store. I'm perfectly aware that they will be an adjustment...but I WILL be buying a pair of PINK VIBRAM FIVE FINGERS TO START MY NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT!!!!
How are you starting YOUR 2011? Can you please start it off in an awesome, new, insane way?
Let's sign up for some races folks...so far all I have on my calendar is the 24 hour race in July.
Welcome back and happy 2011! What a fun and wonderful year this will be! So far, I have already decided that this will be the year of barefoot running. Yesterday, I went and tried on my first pair of Vibram 5 Fingers. First of all, the name "Vibram" is quite sexy. Kind of sounds like vibrator. Amazing. Then it really is like "5 fingers" - there is a spot for each of your toes. Which sounds weird and personally made me think it would be super uncomfortable because I happen to not be a huge toe person. BUT they are surprisingly comfortable and felt AMAZING for the 8 foot jog I took them around the store. I'm perfectly aware that they will be an adjustment...but I WILL be buying a pair of PINK VIBRAM FIVE FINGERS TO START MY NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT!!!!
How are you starting YOUR 2011? Can you please start it off in an awesome, new, insane way?
Let's sign up for some races folks...so far all I have on my calendar is the 24 hour race in July.
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