Newsflash - Still pregnant. Still ready to not be. If he's anything like me, this kid is going to wait until his actual due date on Sunday to complete his first race. In order to take my mind off it, let's talk about why I am excited to get my body back.
This year especially, I am very motivated to get back to racing. Having a 6 mo. break will do that for you. When I originally thought about what I'd like my 2016 racing calendar to look like, I had three goals:
1. Get myself back to marathon shape by the end of 2016 (10 months post baby)
2. Run multiple half marathons, maybe some 10K's and only 1 marathon (as to not burnout a'la 2014)
3. To run more races in California. Although my co-workers kindly (I think) refer to me as a true Califoregonian, it's time to embrace the CA side of the equation. I've lived in the bay area for almost four years now and I love it. Northern CA has so much to offer, especially in terms of amazing races so I don't need to spend every extra $ I have flying up to OR to get my endurance fix on.
With those three goals in mind, The San Francisco Marathon was my first stop. I've been wanting to run this race for all three years I've been in the city but it's always conflicted with previous trips. This year was going to be different. I made the commitment in November and blocked it on my calendar. Tritreats and I have been talking about doing the Half It All Challenge for years so 2016 is gonna be the year I kicked it off. Because I am type-A, naturally I'll run the first half in 2016 and the second in 2017. I'd love to do the full but 5 months post baby seemed a bit aggressive. I've heard nothing but amazing things about this race from the November Project crew and everyone else I know who's ran it. I can personally vouch for how amazing the city is, something those attending the Superbowl festivities this week are finding out first hand. 70+ degrees in February and crystal clear? Yes please!
With CIM in mind as my end of year marathon, I knew I wanted one more local half to work into training. In December MFR and I made a VERY rash/last min decision to buy a house and move to Berkeley - all of which happened in 14 days. Could we be more of a cliche? They say not to make big life decisions in your third trimester - whoops! Pregnancy can cause you to do crazy things. Without even realizing it was happening, as of January 2nd I became an East Bay'er. When I came to, my first course of action was to immediately start researching local running groups and races. Childcare and all that boring stuff can wait.
I found the Berkeley Half on November 20th. What better way to ingrain myself in a community? Plus it starts less than a mile from my new home and works with the CIM training schedule. And any race that is the Sunday before Thanksgiving - the week where I inhale ALL the food and drinks - has my vote. Since I've lived in Berkeley for over four whole weeks now, I am pretty much an expert and can tell you that this is an awesome running town. There are runners EVERYWHERE. The course looks like it covers the best parts of Berkeley plus some added views of the Bay so it was a done deal. After that decision was already made, this magical unicorn appeared:
I love challenges, whether it's completing all 12 legs of Hood To Coast, drinking all the top IPA's, or traveling to all 50 states. Like most endurance addicts, the bigger the challenge the better. Anything to make me run further and faster. It starts with an innocent sprint triathlon and before you know it you've spent thousands on gear and have an Ironman on your calendar. I do better when I have a carrot to chase so add some checkpoints and some extra bling and I am there. I ve run many a races because of they are part of a challenge and I've never been disappointed. I've done the Beach Cities Challenge, multiple Rock N' Roll challenges and all the ones I make up myself.
If you live in the Bay Area or are looking for an excuse to visit, I highly recommend signing up for the SF/Berkeley challenge. Two great cities, two great courses, three great medals and you can pick your poison for running lengths. If you're an avid runner, join me in the half marathon distance, if you're just getting started there is a 5K option at both races or mix and match as you see fit. Put those resolutions to work before they fall apart on Sunday with Superbowl snacks. Need added incentive?You can use the below discount codes to sign up for the SF Marathon to get you started;
Add in a December marathon to round it all out, and I've got one hell of a California race year to look forward to. Now I just need to make it through this labor thing:)
This years review is a little different. I had a great year but unlike others, I didn't race, I didn't travel the world, I didn't blog and I didn't have race goals. I did reset. Although I've spent over 7 months of this year pregnant, I feel relaxed, refreshed and ready to start-up again. I am content where I am at with my life and very excited for the next chapter. Professionally my career is challenging and engaging. Personally I am excited to have moved into a new house in Berkeley in January and welcome our son in February. And athletically I am excited to race again and find out what this new-runner looks like post baby. I am sure it will be completely different, 100% more challenging both physically and mentally, but I am looking forward to it. I've always had the most success when my life is packed to the brim and I don't have a moment to second guess anything. I think an infant, new (very old) house + a full time job should do the trick.
2015 was a different year of goals and experiences. I created a human..congrats I am a mammal. I did some serious US travel, mostly for work but some for fun. Here it is broken down in numbers: 2015 Travel Numbers:
107 - # of flights
125 - # of nights I spent on the road
15 - # of states I traveled to
27 - # of cities I traveled to
3 - # of new states (Montana, North Carolina & Wisconsin)
7 - # of new cities/locations (Austin, TX, Deer Valley, UT, Sequoia National Park, CA, Aspen, CO, Three Lakes, WI, Asheville, NC and Whitefish, MT)
I am sure it's not surprising to learn that my type A personality would like to travel to all 50 states by the time I am 50. I am currently at 23 + D.C. and so I need to average 2 new ones every year. 2016 I am looking forward to Vermont, New Mexico and potentially Iowa and/or Virginia. Besides going home to Oregon, my favorite trips this year were to Austin, Chicago, New York, Deer Valley, Three Lakes and Whitefish. A healthy mix of big cities and beautiful outdoors.
Looking now to 2016, I don't have any conventional resolutions except trying to establish a routine of waking up at the same time every day. I do much better when I am on a routine schedule and working from home gives me the luxury of waking up at all different times, so I'd like to fix that before it gets out of control. Otherwise they all relate to scheduling and making sure my son is happy and healthy when he arrives. Side note - saying "my son" still seems incredibly surreal and freaks me out even though he could be here at any point. Still crossing my fingers and legs that he holds off until February.
For my 2016 goals, it's hard to put much down on paper, since I have no idea what my life will be like post baby but here goes:
Run 3x a week, Classpass 3x a week (post maternity leave)
Monday: Rest or Barre
Tuesday: Speed work or Barry's Bootcamp
Wednesday: Spin/Barre/Yoga
Thursday: Mid-Length Run
Friday: Spin/Barre/Yoga
Saturday: Spin/Barre/Yoga
Sunday: Long Run
10,000 steps on non-workout days, at least 5,000 on days when I workout
Train for and feel good running one half and one marathon (SF Half* on July 31st & NYM or CIM)
Diet - low carbs and no sweets or juices
I am not going to hold a PR over my head but instead run a few halves and one full with one target race in each category. I've decided CIM will be my backup choice for NYM if the lottery doesn't work out. It's not ideal but I spend so much time in Sacramento anyway and know tons of people running, I think it just makes sense for my accountability and wallet. I've already added another race to the calendar - Berkeley Half Marathon on 11/20. Both because I live here now and because of this. You know I can't say no to extra medals especially when they can be claimed less than a mile from our new house! I love me a fresh start and I am hoping 2016 will be a good one. *I just received notice that I've been chosen as an ambassador for the 2016 SF Marathon so much more to come on this race!
Alright I have plan for 2016. I am sure it will go straight to hell when I have a baby in February and realize that making plans is a thing of the past but here goes. I want to run New York again because it's New York. I know I can run a faster pace and that race is just the best. I am going to enter the lottery for the NYM 16, which is taking place on 11/6/16. Chances are pretty slim I'll get a spot that way; considering it took me 5 years to get in last time. Therefore backups are very necessary. I would L-O-V-E love to do Chicago on 10/9 but I am trying to be realistic with the fact that I am going to feel very different next year and getting back into marathon shape with a newborn will not be easy. New York is probably even pushing it but 10 months seems doable. If NYM is a bust, my alternatives are:
1st choice - Santa Barbara Marathon 11/12/16
2nd choice - California International Marathon 12/4/16*
3rd choice - Austin Marathon 2/12/17*
*dates not confirmed
These are all bucket list races for me so I'll use the letdown as an opportunity if I don't get into New York. 2016 Race Schedule will look something like this:
4/3 - Rock N' Roll San Francisco - Registered for this one last year before I knew I was pregnant. Highly doubt I am going to be wanting to even walk a half 9 weeks after having a baby but we'll see. Most likely I'll be cheering on MFR and my dad from the sidelines.
6/4 - Bend Beer Chase
7/31 - San Francisco Marathon Half (1st Half)
10/1 - Levi's Gran Fondo (30 or 60 Miler)
11/6 - New York Marathon or alternative
2017 - New York Marathon or Chicago Marathon
Just looking at this makes me happy. I miss racing and I look forward to toeing the line again. In the meantime I am still doing lots of Barre and Spin classes. Each day it gets harder but I feel much better when I workout during the day. Trying to breath through some back pain and bruised ribs (darn kid) but otherwise feeling good. I look massive but I feel good so I am taking it as a win:)
Despite being dangerously under-trained, under-prepared, exhausted and injured, on November 2nd I ran the New York City Marathon. I did my best to suicide the mission by going out way too hard on Halloween night (I blame NY for being so fun), not sleeping more than 3 hours the night before the race and running in shoes that should have been thrown away months ago. Despite all my best efforts to sabotage, I crossed the finish line in 4:38:11, my second fastest marathon to date (by two seconds.)
As it should be in that city, the 4:38 did not come easy. New York makes you work for it. 30 mph winds, 40 degrees and a mini-marathon just to get to the start line. Usually when I cross the finish-line of a marathon, my first thought is: I am never running again and I want to collapse. This one was different. I had a huge smile on my face, I felt energized and I would have run it again the next day if someone had offered.
I am not a talented enough writer to put into eloquent words what it's like to run the New York Marathon. Nor can I explain what makes it so different than every other marathon. All I can say is if you have running a marathon on your bucket list, then New York should be it. It's not only the worlds biggest marathon, 50,000+ runners, the entire city shuts down and comes to cheer you on. It's a runners high I've never experienced. It's truly indescribable and something everyone should witness in one form or another.
I'll spare you every little detail of my trip but here's a few of the highlights leading up to the race:
Wed. night the Giants won the world series, we got covered in champagne and then I had to get on a 7am flight to NY.
I arrived late afternoon on Thursday, went to dinner with some great friends and then promptly fell asleep on their couch after watching Scandal.
Friday morning was a 3 mile shakeout run with Nuun in Central Park followed by coffee and bagels. Then we hit up the expo and the Nuun booth to pick up individualized goodie bags for all the ambassadors. Have I mentioned how much I heart Nuun? Such an awesome company, filled with the coolest of cool employees. In fact this is a good reminder that I need to restock, my stash is getting dangerously low. We checked into our Airbnb which we definitely scored with. Very nice two bedroom apartment blocks from the finish line and way more affordable then a hotel! I'd definitely use Airbnb, or even the same apartment next time I am in New York.
Expo
New York in the fall is hideous
I have no idea what is wrong with me in this picture but I am posting it anyway b/c I love the Nuunies so much!
The evening then kicked into high gear with some Top Gun costumes and getting rowdy in the village. Should I have done this two nights before a marathon? Absolutely not! But you only live once and how often am I going to be in New York with great friends on Halloween on a Friday night? Exactly.
Mav & Charlie
Saturday we brunched at took it easy which actually worked out since it was raining most of the day. We had a great pre-race dinner at OTTO, watched the Duck game and set up for the next morning. There were some last minute outfit changes since I had not come prepared for 40 degree weather with 30 mph winds.
Being the idiot that I am, I had a shot of espresso at dinner because I wanted to stay up for the whole Duck game. Mission accomplished and then some. I think I only slept 2-3 hours on Saturday night. I woke up feeling anxious and exhausted on Sunday morning. The first thing I read on my phone was the wind warning:
Just adding to the anxiety at this point
We had no choice but to put on ALL the layers on and get out there. AT 6:45 AM we navigated our way to Starbucks, on multiple subways (with some help from the locals) and on to the Staten Island Ferry. As soon as we stepped foot onto the island, the wind picked up and you could feel the chill in your bones. One long shuttle ride later, we were at the start line. I thought that we'd be sitting out there forever but the commute to the start line is no joke; all of sudden it was 10:30 AM and time to run.
It was really nice of New York to let these two homeless people run in their marathon.
After some mis-communication about where we were supposed to line up and frantic dash to strip off layers, tritreats and I toed the line ran frantically across the start line. Because I didn't really have a time goal for this race, I purposely ran without a watch so I don't have any splits or data. On top of that the entire race was a blur so I don't have tons to report but I'll breakdown what I do remember.
The two mile Varrazono-Narrows Bridge was brutal. It was so windy I was worried about blowing right off the top deck. Once we survived death by wind, I looked up and we were in Brooklyn! I was so distracted by the crowd, the music and the energy that the next 10 miles flew by. Brooklyn's got marathon cheering locked down! All of a sudden there is a one mile stretch through a Hasidic Jewish neighborhood that is so quiet it's almost eerie. You go from thousands cheering you on, to nobody on the sidewalks. It's only a mile and luckily the crowds come back once you hit Queens.
It was right around this time that I started to realize something was wrong with my left ankle/shin. I had started to feel it as early as mile 5 but I thought my foot was just numb/tight and it would loosen up. Around Mile 11 I discovered that wasn't the case and this was a pain I had never felt before. It felt like a really bad shin split in only the lower half of my shin that was shooting pain down into the top of my ankle and foot. I had taken Advil before the race and it had started to wear off at this point and the pain was getting worse. I was frustrated since the rest of my body was feeling good.
Apparently cold weather running is my jam. I hydrated at every aid station like I normally would but since it was freezing, I wasn't sweating nearly as much. The entire race, I never felt dehydrated or had any stomach issues, even post race. For me that's a huge win and very uncommon. However, this ankle thing wasn't going to allow for an easy race. I kept thinking I should tell Leslie but realized that wasn't going to help anything. I knew that once I started talking about it, then it would be on my mind, I'd wallow in my misery and start to get defeated. So I ignored it as much as I could and just kept running through the pain. Not the healthiest approach but it worked for me. Don't tell my PT.
The crowds
Around Mile 16 you go over the Queensboro Bridge and into Manhattan for the first time and the crowds are electric! We saw our cheering squad, who nailed it with the signs and high-fives. I concentrated on that and getting to mile 20. Even with the pain, I just kept thinking, this is the most amazing race I've ever experienced.
Happy faces despite the pain.
The energy boost I needed at this point
At mile 20, a lone man stood on the bridge with a boombox blasting Jay-Z over his head, Say Anything style. We had made it to the Bronx. I asked Leslie how we were on time? My plan had been that if we were not on pace for her to PR, I'd let her know I was hurting and start walking. If we were on pace, I didn't want anything to bring that down. When she said 3:33, I knew I just needed to suck it up for 6 more miles. I had taken more Advil at 18 which helped. Turns out this was a blessing in disguise because post-race I realized it hurt way more to walk then to keep running.
Miles 21-26 are a total blur. The crowds were unbelievable, Central Park was beautiful and I felt a surge of energy knowing I was going to finish the NYM in a time that I could be proud of given my current conditions. I felt like we sprinted (we didn't) the last few miles as we were dodging around a bunch of walkers. I tried to soak in the entire experience. We passed our cheering section one last time and all of sudden we crossed the finish line (5 min PR for Leslie). I had a huge smile on my face and despite immediately limping, I felt like I had run a good solid race and had the experience of a lifetime. We waddled our way through the finishers chute and got our ponchos, snacks and medals before heading back to the apartment where our support crew was waiting with a six pack of IPA and a giant bag of cookies. Told you they were the best. After showering, we went immediately to Shake Shack which tasted like heaven in burger form.
Worlds best cheer crew, including MFR taking the photo and not including the dude in the green hood, he might be great I just don't know him
I flew home Monday and by the time we landed, I could barely put weight on my left foot. I've since self diagnosed myself with Extensor Tendonitis, which you get from overuse or poorly fitting shoes....ding, ding, ding. I've taken almost two weeks off from running and instead I am focusing on spin, barre and yoga classes. I think it's getting better but for now every night is spent like this:
Someone needs a pedicure
It was totally worth it to experience the wonder that is the New York Marathon! I can only hope that I get to do it again some day.
Best signs and my new favorite medal.
And if I still don't have you convinced, just watch this.....
July Stats: Weights/Core/Nov. Project: 80 min Running: 54 Miles Spin: 24 Miles Yoga: 50 Min Tennis: 2 Hours Total: 78 Miles + 4 hours 10 min August Stats: Weights/Core/Nov. Project: 65 min Running: 64 Miles Spin: 14 Miles Total: 78 Miles + 65 min
Everything was down from June except Core/Nov Project and Tennis because it's never been on there. Mileage wise these are the lowest months all year. I need to start "really" training for New York. Nothing like starting your 16 week training plan at week 9. I am not starting from zero but I've been VERY unmotivated since Hood To Coast. There are just other things I'd rather be doing then running - tennis, golf, watching football, traveling, drinking beer, eating food, drinking wine, watching more football, hanging out with friends and watching football. I keep saying this is my retirement marathon (for awhile) so I'd like to run it well. But if you add my lack of motivation to the fact that I've been traveling 4 weekends in a row and I am about to leave for Europe for 2+ weeks, the Sub 4 dream has come and gone. I still have a very small amount of hope for a PR to end my marathon-ing on a high note IF I can get my ass in gear this week today.
Also I suck at blogging lately. I just don't seem to have the inspiration or energy to put in to it. I'am not even interested in reading other running blogs lately. Clearly I am in full burnout mode but I need to woman up for one last race before I start pursuing other interests. I've waited 4 years for this race so it would be so stupid to waste this opportunity.
I keep planning on writing something interesting and giving this blog a refresh but it's just not happening. I am literally boring myself while typing this sentence. So to keep with the craptastic content that's been on here lately, I present 10 things you could care less about need to know about my life right now:
In Week 4 of not NY training, I had a minor scare with a popped SIJ . Turns out that all my right leg issues (knee, ankle, SIJ) are all stemming from a horribly weak right glute.
I am now in physical therapy 1-2 times a week. I had never been to a PT before but so far I am a fan. Luckily my PT is willing to work with my (non) training and made a deal that I have to do these daily exercises before I am allowed to run. She's no nonsense and says thing like "typical fucking runner" in response to my comments of, "no I didn't see anyone, I just took Advil." Also, PT is hard. I leave sweating and I am always sore for multiple days after.
MFR and I ate healthy the month of August which meant: no cheese, no beer (exception of 2 cheat days - HTC & Bend Brewfest), low carbs, minimal sweets and portion control. I did pretty good but I am glad it's over.
It's FINALLY sunny in SF and that makes me happy.
Football season is here which means Sat, Sun, Mon and sometimes Thurs I am booked
Besides one other weekend in the beginning of August, this will be my first full weekend in San Francisco in over 14 weeks
After Tour de Europe we made a deal not to travel for a few months (other than work trips, holidays and the NY Marathon...but other than that)
We ran Hood to Coast and per usual it was a great time. Leslie has a good recap. In summary, I not only survived Leg 5 but ran the best I've ever ran HTC. It was a great feeling to finally run a good even relay and know I put everything into each leg.
Entire team at the finish line!
I blame the high of HTC for my lack of excitement for New York.
June Totals:
Running: 55 Miles
Cycling: 37 Miles
Spin: 65 Miles
Cross/Core/Abs: 45 Min
Weights: 35 Min Yoga: 2 Hours
Total: 157 Miles
June was big month for me! I felt strong and like I got a good mix of activities in. Highest mileage month in 2014 so far.
When I originally signed up for 3 half marathons (Zooma, N2S & Eugene) in 4 weeks my goal was to sub 2 all of them. That didn't happen. I came in at 2:04 for both Zooma & N2S and I am expecting something similar for Eugene this weekend. The problem is not that I am out of shape or under-trained. The problem is Hood To Coast! What the what you say? Sounds crazy but let me explain.
I am so terrified of that Runner 5 slot in HTC that I refuse to let myself taper or rest up for any of these races. I have this nagging voice in the back of my head saying "running a half on tired legs will be the best training, think about how you'll feel climbing the mountain on your third leg."
Leg 3 - After having already run 14 miles (photocred/stolenfrom: OuaL)
I ran on tired legs for Zooma and then had a bad two weeks as far as training goes (selling a house, sinus infection etc...). On Thursday, I considered just not working out and saving my legs for N2S but that voice came back. So on Friday I ran lots-o-hills with November Project (Hills = Leg 5 Training), played 2 hours of tennis with MFR on Sat and then ran 13.1 on Sunday. It's not ideal but it just makes sense to me right now so don't question.
Lyon St. Steps - The "Hill" we ran over and over again on Friday.
How can you say no to tennis with views like that?
This weeks plan consists of two Nov. Project workouts (hills & stairs), yoga, three short runs and a spin class all before taking on Eugene on Sunday. Although I would still LOVE to Sub-2, I am not putting the pressure on. My legs will be very tired once again, plus 95 degree weather is predicted. Sub 2:05 is just fine by me. I am looking forward to the race and my mini family run-union. I haven't run Eugene since 2009; it will be good to be back in town for something other than football.
Last week was the official kick off of New York Marathon training, which is crazy to think about. I have so much going on before November 2nd, that I can't comprehend it's only 15 weeks away. I have seven trips (yes, seven) and three races before I get to NY. Once I get passed HTC, my plan is to stay 100% focused on NY. I've got a big goal and it's going to take a lot to accomplish it, especially considering the amount of travel I have. Since it took me 4 years just do get into this race, I don't want to waste this opportunity.
I am using a similar training plan as Napa Valley Marathon. Since I had N2S this past weekend and I have Eugene Half Marathon this weekend, I haven't followed the plan exactly but starting next week (week 3) I'll be on track + yoga, spin, core and hills (until HTC). New York I am coming for you - Sub 4 or bust!
I've been MIA for a few weeks and instead of making excuses, I'll just say that I've been busy and the blog has not been a priority. I don't want to word vomit every day missed so here's the gist.
I ran Big Sur Marathon. It was an incredible experience and so much more then running a "normal" marathon. It was also really hard. The last six miles were some of the most difficult and painful miles I've ever ran but it was so worth it. TriTreats did an awesome recap that I am going to try to duplicate so check it out for the full play by play and pictures. If you get a chance to run Big Sur, do it! Remember they sold out in 57 minutes last year, I have a feeling a lottery for registration is in the not too distant future.
Other non-sweaty highlights of the past few weeks:
Watching these guys in the playoffs - every other night!
Kentucky Derby party in Portland
Vegas for MFR's birthday where I treated myself to a little Britney action.
And saw my brother, sister-in-law and adorable nephews
More country concerts: Tim McGraw & Kip Moore
18 holes of golf in Half Moon Bay - I golf now because the views look like this.
It's been a fun couple of weeks. I am looking forward to a few weekends at home before it picks back up in June. On tap this weekend is running Bay To Breakers with 100,000 other crazies. I haven't done this race since I was in high school. Looking forward to the all the madness.
Happy Marathon Monday to all! I woke up at 5:30 am in order to caffeinate properly before the Boston feed went live at 6:30 am. This was especially tough after going to bed very late due to the Blazer playoff game going into overtime. Way tougher than actually running 26.2. I am all hopped up on sports and emotions. I just want to run around and talk with whoever will listen about Shalane, Meb, Team Hoyt, the runners who carried the man across the finish, the beauty that is the Boston Marathon and taking back the finish.
Today's outfit (thanks So Cal travel, my skin is no longer translucent)
Instead of creeping everyone out by doing that, I've instead decided to take a look at my week ahead. I am finally back in town (until Sat) and need to log some miles on the spin bike and hours on the yoga mat if I am going to beat my March totals. I should also be tapering since I am running Big Sur Marathon on Sunday. No big deal. It just sorta snuck up on me. I've had a very lazy relaxed approach to this marathon, only doing two double digit runs since Napa and not mentally preparing at all. It hit me this morning while watching others cross the finish line that I am also running a marathon this week and that is in fact a big deal.
The good news is every person I mention the race to has the exact same response: "don't push for a PR on this course, just take your time and soak in the scenery." So that's my plan. I am going to let Leslie set the pace and I'll try and stay steady and have fun. And maybe even take a picture or two; first time for everything. The weather is predicted to be low 60's, cloudy and a 20% chance of rain. Should make for great conditions if that holds true.
Excited to see these views
I am not going to "taper" since I don't have anything to taper down from. I'll do a few very short runs this week + yoga and spin. This lackadaisical approach will be coming to an end soon. I've got some ambitious goals for my running over the next few months. Many of which were spurred by watching Boston this morning. I always find it mind-blowing when runners say, "even if I qualified I wouldn't want to do Boston." I just don't understand that mindset. How could you not want to experience THE race and be part of that community? I may not get there until I am in my 50's but I know someday I'll be there and I will look forward to and strive for that moment with every step I run.
A huge CONGRATULATIONS to my Nuun Hood To Coast teammates: Jenny, Meghan B. and Megan H. who ran some seriously speedy marathons. These girls are legit runners and people who inspire me daily. Congrats to all three of you and everyone else who ran Boston today.
I was supposed to be in San Diego today and tomorrow but a VERY last minute meeting cancellation left me standing on the BART platform this morning and instead of boarding, I turned around and headed back home. Side note: House of Cards (spoiler alert) has forever ruined subway platforms for me. I've had nightmares and I now stand right in the middle and constantly look over my shoulder for Frank Underwood looking figures.
I'll be heading down to SoCal wine country in April now instead but I was especially sad this trip got cancelled since I'll be missing out on this evenings festivities at the Lorna Jane North County store. This is the second LJ store opening I've missed due to work travel plans. Rumor has it they offer some great swag, discounts and do a fun group workout. Doesn't it suck when your real life gets in the way of your internet life? Sadly I won't be there but if anyone else is in the Escondido area, you should check out the preview party tonight or enjoy the 20% off they are offering all weekend. Post workout I would recommend hitting up Stone Brewing Co., you will not be sorry.
To make myself feel better I am going to try and get to Roga (not the shorts) tomorrow morning. 5AM wake up calls can be a little rough, especially after today's to catch my non-flight, but I am sure I'll be happy I did it. I think I can, I think I can...
I am coming to the realization that I may be enjoying my NVM recovery a little too much. I did get in a longer run this past weekend but the altitude in Tahoe was killing me. I didn't put in a lot of effort and it turned into a nice long run/walk. I have a 15 on tap for Sunday that is going to be rough, followed by RNR Half next weekend. I've REALLY enjoyed the break the last few weeks but it's time to put down the wine glass and pick up the Garmin. Big Sur isn't going to run itself.
Confirmed Races for 2014:
Kaiser Half Marathon - 2/2
Napa Valley Marathon - 3/2
Rock N' Roll SF Half Marathon - 4/6
Big Sur Marathon - 4/27
Zooma Napa Valley Half Marathon - 6/28
Eugene Half Marathon - 7/27
Hood To Coast - 8/22-8/23 (the dreaded leg 5)
New York Marathon - 11/2
Now that I am looking at my race calendar for the year, it's kind of light. I did 12 races last year, including three relays. I would really like to run one more relay this year, maybe even another
Ultra. If anyone is planning on doing Reach The Beach or The Bourban Chase and you need another average runner with above average sarcasm, who will inhale more than her fair share of beer and peanut butter pretzels; I am your girl.
I apologize for the brief interruption to the previous scheduled programming here on Karadise. For a hot minute, due to my inability to understand domain hosting and publishing, I thought I needed to get a new URL and hosting site. It was the perfect storm of an expired credit card, an e-mail address I didn't know I had, my blog disappearing and a frantic search to replace it since I thought Karadise would now be costing me lots o' $ to host.
Rest assured I have been given back my hijacked Karadise but not before I freaked out and purchased Run Bird Legs Run, which I thought was a pretty good find in rage filled panic search. So now I own both RBLR, which goes to nowhere for the time being, and Karadise is back in the hands of its rightful "owner." At some point I may switch over, but for now we'll remain here. Turns out it's a little more tricky than you I may think. And with that back to your regularly scheduled programming.
Life/Running Update:
Things have been busy per usual. Having the weather be sunny and 70 here in NorCal has only added to the activities on my "must do" list. I've actually been home every weekend since the race which is a big change. They have been filled with trips to the beach, not running, beers with friends (IRL and blogger kind alike), hikes, brunches and not running some more. I am continuing my tour-de-CA with four trips this week. Two day trips for work, a trip to Tahoe this weekend for fun/work and a two day trip to San Diego at the end of next week. All that plus LOTS O BASKETBALL this week. Go Ducks!
I have been keeping up on yoga, Abs challenge and getting in a few short runs here and there but this weekend will kick off the re-training for Big Sur. with my first double digit run. I am going to take this training cycle a littler easier then Napa Valley. I am planning to run Big Sur with Tritreats at a conversational pace and just take in the beauty of the course. Then I'll gear back up the speed for New York! That still means long runs but I am only planning on one 20 miler and not as much pressure on hitting certain times for training runs. MFR and I have decided not to do Wildflower this year. I am really loving running this year and don't want the pressure of "having to tri train." And also this:
The California drought is not a joke people
In other news, This! Kara Goucher with Oiselle. I've loved me some Kara for so many years and was a tad bit heartbroken when I heard she was leaving Portland. But to hear that she is now with my favorite running apparel company, (possibly just favorite company) is like peanut butter wine and chocolate finding each other for the first time. You can read more about Kara's announcement and Sally's side - spoiler alert, both women are full of awesomeness. To say I am excited about this partnership would be the understatement of the century. See you in New York Kara.
With that I am off to hike the hills of Tahoe and buy ALL the Oiselle threads.
I did it! After 3+ years of talking about it, I finally ran another marathon and met my goal of a sub 4:30. In fact I killed my goal and ran a 4:12, which I didn't think I was capable of. I love when I surprise myself. I thought a sub 4:30 was possible and maybe a little better but not a 26 min PR - 1 min for every mile ran. The race itself is already a blur and I am having a hard time believing it happened. This post race loss of memory only seems to happen when I run a really good race. If I have a bad race, I can recall each disappointing mile in detail.
Here's what I do remember. It was hard, I had really sore/tight muscles after mile 7ish, it rained (which is why I have NO photos), the last 8 miles were tough, I need a better sports bra (race pics confirmed this), it went by really fast, it was a beautiful course and I made a lot of mental deals with myself (i.e. run to the next milepost and you can walk for 30 sec) to get to the finish in under 4:15.
After walking over 5 miles on Saturday (don't ask) I started to question if I really could run a 4:30. My muscles were sore and tight from the sports massage and the stupidly long walk. As I was packing, I opened a new box of my favorite Salted Carmel Gu and found the Golden Yeti (which means I won a free 24 back of more SC Gu + a chance to win a weekend trip to San Francisco, oh wait...).
Salty for the win.
We finally got out to Napa around 6:00pm on Saturday night, the expo was over but packet pickup was still open. This is where finally started to get excited for the race and mentally engage. I got checked in and then they handed me my gear bag. Woah, woah, woah....what is this? Apparently I had missed all the hype about how great the swag bags were. To be clear the swag was nice, your normal samples, chips, bars etc... but the actual bag was what had me questioning if there was a mistake.
It's the little things.
Not too shabby for a gear bag.
After check-in we headed back to Sonoma for the night where a comedy of errors took place which included jumping my car 3 seperate times, getting stuck out in the rain and ending up at a restaurant with no real "carbs" on the menu besides beer. I ended up with a quinoa salad and a fish taco. After 4 days of no booze I gave in and had half a beer on race eve. Before you say a word, it was Pliny The Elder ON TAP, exceptions had to be made. For you non-beer drinkers, this is like stumbling across a race entry to Boston.
On race day, I woke up at 3:45am and began the ritual. Coffee, bagel, Justins, Nuun, Bodyglide, triple check everything and out the door. After a 20 min drive to Napa, I parked at the high school no problem, grabbed my bag and headed over to the shuttles. In this race everyone takes buses up to Calistoga since there is no parking. I grabbed a seat next to a guy from Monterey who had turned 60 the day before and to celebrate he was running his first marathon in hopes of qualifying for Boston where he was originally from. I love this sport!
After a 30 min drive or so 25+ school buses rolled up in the middle of surrounding vineyards. It was just about this point when I realized just how well organized this race was. A volunteer got on the bus and said portas are this way (and there was no line) and that the buses would all be staying until the 7AM race start so were welcome to stretch, hang out and stay warm until minutes before. I ate two fruit leathers, finished my nuun and stretched out. As I am writing this I am realizing just how much fiber I ate in that 24 hours pre-race. Probably a good reason my stomach did not feel great after the race. Noted.
At 6:55 I checked my bag and lined up and right on time we were off. As soon as I crossed the start line I told myself to slow down. My biggest fear was going out too fast. I tried to just shuffle along with the pack and take it easy. This course was perfect since the first 7 miles are rollers so it just kept me going a good steady pace. I told myself to get to 7 and then I could pick it up. Obviously I ran miles 4 and 5 faster than I intended but still felt good about containing my pace.
Mile 1- 9:48
Miel 2- 9:30
Mile 3- 9:18
Mile 4- 8:53
Mile 5- 8:54
Mile 6- 9:08
Mile 7- 9:28
Pre-Rain
I was told at 7 that the majority of the hills would be over so that was where my speed up plan would go into action. At this point two things happened. It started raining misting and I realized just how sore my muscles were already. Every step was a reminder of the tightness; I felt strong but like I could be snapped in half. I questioned if I could keep it up so I made a deal with myself. Just get to 20 and then we'll see what's what. Don't walk or slow down. You did 20 twice in training; you can do it now.
Mile 8- 8:46
Mile 9- 8:55
Mile 10- 9:04
Mile 11- 9:04
Mile 12- 9:05
Mile 13- 9:11
Mile 14- 9:11
Mile 15- 9:11
Mile 16- 9:28
Mile 17- 9:21
Mile 18- 9:01
At 18.5 or so I saw MFR and stopped to say hi eat a handful of chocolate covered pretzels. I started up again and saw a hill straight ahead. I still had 20 in my head but that was the first official time I walked (besides aid stations). It was maybe only 30 seconds but it set the tone for the next few miles and they were rough. Mentally 19-23 were the worst miles. I was still checked in but I was wet, chaffing and knew I was slowing way down. Once I got to 20 I took another walk break and started to do the math. I figured even if I walked the last 10K I'd break 4:30. I knew a sub 4:15 was possible but I didn't let myself think about it I hit 23. It's amazing what gets you through at this point. I'd tell myself to run to "that tree" and then walk or run 1.5 miles and regardless of the target I could usually do it.
Mile 19- 9:53
Mile 20- 9:37
Mile 21- 11:29
Mile 22- 10:35
Mile 23- 10:35
At mile 23 ish a group of locals were handing out little cups of homemade sorbet. I took 3. Even though it was raining and cold, those flavored icy treats were the best things I had ever tasted. I looked at my watch one last time at 23 and knew I could potentially get sub 4:15. I was already celebrating that I would accomplish my goal. Obviously being close to the finish pumped me up. Once I slow down I have a very hard time ever getting my pace back up. Looking at my splits, I am more proud of miles 25 & 26 then any others. I sprinted through the finish with my hands over my head, feeling like i left it all out there.
Mile 24- 11:23
Mile 25- 9:54
Mile 26- 9:59
.4 - 3:50
I once again ran a positive split which is not ideal but knowing how hard the last 10K of a marathon is, I feel like I ran the best I could. There is definite room for improvement but for now I'am just going to bask in the glow of my 4:12.
What it looked like when others crossed the finish line:)
Race Review: I can't say enough good things about this race. It should be on every runners race bucket list. The scenery can not be beat; rolling hills, surrounded by vineyards and oak trees the entire time. For anyone who has done Hood To Coast, a lot of the course reminded of being out past Mist on the narrow coastal highway. For a lot of the time we were running single file which also felt like HTC.
The organization was the best I've seen and I really enjoyed the small 2700 person field. Aid stations were every two miles and had gatorade and water at each. They had actual catchers (a la Ironman) at the finish line to take care of each runner individually as they crossed. I had the nicest man congratulate me, get me a heat sheet, a water and medal and verify I didn't need medical before he want on to the next person. The only downside was not being able to use headphones - though I didn't even notice and the course is not very spectator friendly. The Silverado trail is closed to traffic and there are not a lot of access points but it made the areas that did have crossroads fun to run through because hundreds of spectators would be gathered there cheering, it gave you little bursts of energy.
If you're even kind of considering this race, just do it! I promise you won't be sorry. This is hands down my favorite marathon I've ever seen or participated in. I love that it's just a marathon too, no half option. Through May 31st, it's only $100 to register (includes your shuttle to Calistoga) which these days is unheard of. Especially considering the sweet race bag. I believe it sold out around October last year. Mark your calendars, race day is March 1st, 2015. Most likely I'll see you there.
This is officially the worlds longest week and I think it has something to do with the fact that I am running a marathon on Sunday. It's no big deal, it's just another run. At least that's what it looks like to an outsider this week. Besides obsessive hydrating and a painful sports massage (that had me in tears and begging for mercy), I've done absolutely nothing as far as preparation goes. Each day I am thinking about the race but my stream of consciousness reads something like this:
Wow it's Wednesday I should probably start changing my eating habits for the race...is that an open bag of oreos...oh well that's what taper is for right...I wonder what my pace has to be to run a sub 4:30...I should probably look that up...what am I am going to do with no music...when does packet pickup end on Sat...I should probably look that up....marathons are too far, that last bit is going to suck....look at me drinking water and taking vitamins....yes I would like to go to In-N-Out with you for lunch...hope my knee holds up...that massage was so painful...is it good to get a massage like that so close to race day....I probably should have looked that up....where should we stay Sat night....maybe Sonoma at Grandmas...I should probably call her....god I hope I run a sub 4:30....what should I wear...maybe I should check the weather...I bet we have to be on the shuttle really early...I should probably look that up.
You get the idea. For a type-A planner on most things, races seem to bring out the type-Z in me. Yet my best races have been the ones I don't think about at all over think so you gotta stick with what works.
I have been foam rolling daily and hydrating like a pro. Today through race day is no booze and an attempt at healthy carbs and proteins. Lunch was a great start. The chocolate chip cookie it came with was not.
Dino kale salad w/tofu from The Plant. My favorite $14 salad out there.
Taper week really does make you feel off. I am tired, starving and antsy which are all signs of a good taper. I had planned on a few more workouts this week but after an awesome 7 mile #runch on Monday with the SweatGuru team my knee felt a little off. I immediately scheduled a massage for Tuesday night and although it feels way better I thought it best not to push it. I am going to do an EASY 4 miler on the treadmill tonight and then call it good. Stretching - rolling - hydrating - walking will be my mantra for the next 48 hours.
This will be my third marathon overall. My last one was in 2010, in the pouring rain and I managed a 4:38 (35 min faster than my 1st marathon). I am a much better runner now so that 8 min doesn't seem like it should be that tough but in my pledge to respect the distance, I know I it will be. It's a marathon and they are hard but I am ready to run a smart race and enjoy the miles. As long as I can contain my speed for the first few miles and keep a consistent pace, I don't see any reason I shouldn't be able to accomplish my goal. I just have to remember to breathe and maybe check to see what time I should be on the shuttle. See you on the other side - with a glass of wine in hand.
After a minor distraction with a potentially horrible but really fun idea to go run an ultra in AZ this weekend, I am re-focused on the marathon:
@SarahOUaL@jcbonn yeah let me know. I'am intrigued enough to see if it's possible. Last min plane tix = why I ll never have savings.
— Kara Ruecker (@2tix2karadise) February 19, 2014
They ended up filling the spot, which was definitely for the best but it would have been fun. T minus 11 days until the Napa Valley Marathon. I am trying not to think about it too much or let the pressure get to me. It's safe to say I've achieved that since I was wiling to forgo taper to run 30 miles the weekend before the race.
I seem to do my best in races when I don't overthink it and just run. I don't want to stress too much about plans and the time. My only real goal is go out slow and hope that when I cross that finish line, my Garmin says < 4:29:59. Honestly my biggest concern is that we can't wear headphones. You'd think my biggest concern would be running that last 6 miles but I am VERY used to running with music or someone to talk with. I apologize in advance to whomever I run stalk and convince them to casually chat with me for 26 miles.
With a smaller field than most—organizers accept only 2,300 racers annually—the Napa Valley Marathon allows runners some elbowroom. The route runs along the Silverado Trail on the east side of the valley, and winds south from Calistoga down to Napa. The scenery? It’s simply stunning, with views of the valley, fruit trees and dormant vineyards flanked with gold-colored mustard flowers. Except for the last stretch into Napa, this is a rural race—just you, the road and Wine Country. It’s a great race for beginners, as the majority of the course is downhill (with the exception of the oh-so-beautiful rolling hills in the first six miles). Keep in mind that you can’t use headphones, but the picturesque surroundings make up for the lack of tunes. Though this year is sold out, registration for the 2015 race opens on March 3.
Pretty awesome right? It's been on my race bucket list for a few years and the time has finally come. Big Sur is on the Forbes list as well so I am knocking out 2 of the 10 this year. This race will also be a good chance to preview the course for the Zooma Half. Which speaking of, our ambassador bios are up on the Zooma site, makes it official. And don't forget, 10% off registration fees, for either distance when you use the code: NAMB10.
To keep my mind distracted we're heading to Tahoe this weekend to enjoy some snow, skiing-and-hopefully-not-breaking-anything. One more 10 miler on Sunday, a few short runs next week and then it's go time.
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