10th Annual Palm Beaches Half Marathon-Dec 8, 2013

This was the 10th Annual Palm Beaches Marathon Run Fest which included a 5k, 10k, half marathon, marathon, and relay. There were about 2500 half marathoners, 866 marathoners with additional 964 relayers.

I had planned the race as a back to back with the Savannah River Bridge Double Pump (15k) as I am training for the 26.2 with Donna and have done some reading on training plans that doing back to backs help your body and mind prepare to run on tired legs. I had to make the 6 hour drive from Savannah in barely enough time to catch the end of the Expo at the Harriet Himmel Theater at City Place at 6p. The Expo was of a small size and had minimal fueling supplies. What was the worst part is you had to pay for parking to get to it! (Valet or Parking Garage)

Being on a tight budget, I opted to stay about 10 minutes outside of town at a Residence Inn which had a full kitchen where I could not only save money but time with eating in. After dinner, the soreness was kicking in after the bridge run combined with long drive, so I took an Epsom bath and covered my legs in icy hot and made it an early night.


It was an early morning, but it was good to have a hot breakfast as well as homemade coffee. The race did a great job of pre race communications via email and Facebook and let us know of all the parking options, which included several parking garages....a couple free, and some you had to pay, even if they were right next to each other. No sense.  I made sure I was there early enough to get the best FREE spot!


The race had a super early start time of 630a. Well, supposedly. We had about a 20 minute delay. I later learned its because the cops would not let us start until the entire course was barricaded, yet the directors had planned to do the last few miles as we ran the first few miles. Think again.


We woke with temps already at 75 degrees and they were predicted to climb well into the 80s. The Start Line already had the Yellow Caution Flags flying. I later learned the marathoners were put under Red Warning Flags.


Arriving early meant no lines for the porta potties!...at least the first time around. The 2nd time was very short as it seemed there were plenty and in different locations.


This race is technically not 'at' the beach. It is officially in West Palm Beach, which is on the other side of the intracoastal waterway, but it is still a very scenic race.

The course is an up and back and then down and back....meaning we ran right by the finish line....which is never acceptable when you are a slow runner and you are seeing people celebrating their finish already and all you can think is 'how much more do I have to go?!'


My goal was to 'wog' 3/1 (jog 3 min/walk 1 min) as this was the plan for the full marathon in February. The first half was easy peasy and I felt strong. It was definitely hot, but the majority of it was in the shade and we had a nice breeze going on. The last few miles though were in pure sun and the temps definitely took its toll on my body and there was a lot more walking. I grabbed 3 cups at each station (which were properly stocked! Kudos for plenty of supplies during such a hot race!) a water, a Gatorade, and another water to dump on my head. I was drenched by the time I hit the Finish Line! I later learned about 50 people were treated for heat related illnesses. Out of the 10 years, this was only the 2nd hottest race for this series. The medal makes it kind of ironic, as it is a huge sun! But what can you expect for a Finish Line hosting a Christmas tree sculpted out of sand!?

The finish line was stocked with lots of packaged snacks provided by Publix. I walked away literally barely able to carry it all! We ended in a park, so there was plenty of area of stretch out and rest for a bit. However, the 2 free beers were outside the park, and inside a bar (World of Bar). It was a bit of a wait in line, but not the worst, probably because I was able to chat with some people.


All in all, I would recommend this race. Its a great scenic (and flat) course and is a great location to have a beach vacation. Its also perfect location for tons of restaurants, bars, and shopping, so plan to spend some time for this race weekend to celebrate!


I unfortunately had to hurry back home after the race. The weather had a couple stray showers coming thru (which probably helped the marathoners cool off) so it was probably for the best. I took the scenic route home up A1A and stopped at a few beaches along the way to rest the tootsies!

HM #33
2:32


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Savannah River Bridge Run-Dec 7, 2013

So I have to warn, I am a bit partial to this run, as it was my very first race 7 years ago. The race morning consists of a 5k, 10, and 15k aka Double Pump, going over the bridge either once, twice, or GASP three times! This is definitely known as the Toughest Bridge Run of the South with a 5.5% grade over the .7mile climb!

 

Every year since 2008 (my 2nd) I have run the 5k in Costume. The race has a costume contest with 3 winners receiving a cash prize! The past couple of years they have also included a team costume contest as well. I have been a pink ribbon, pink Converse sneaker, Ms Pacman, a flamingo, and 'Call Me Maybe' telephone!  Any cash winnings I ever received I always donated to the 26.2 with Donna organization. However, Ive always secretly envied the runners who tackled the Double Pump.

After 7 years of focusing on fundraising I decided I was going to go into 2013 and try to put some more focus on myself and improving my running. Still contemplating designs for the contest in the Fall, the race announced this would be the first year they would give a medal for the Double Pump....decision made! I forwent the contest and was going to give it my all on the bridge...3 times!

 I drove up the day before the race and stayed at the Andaz which has a perfect location to the Riverwalk as well as the Expo at the Civic Center.  Hint for those new to town....the street metered parking is free on the weekends, so there is no need to pay for valet or over priced self parking at the hotels! The hotel welcomed me with a glass of wine, as well as fully stocked Free mini bar of snacks and nonalcoholic drinks. Yes, that's right, Free! How'd they know I was the Broke Traveling Runner Girl!?

The Expo is a nice touch, as usually 5k/10k races don't have much of an expo. Most of the vendors are advertising other local races, but there also running clothes and supplies to buy. The Enmark (a local convenient store) gave out free coffee and granola bars. The shirts are pretty unique as they hold a contest for the design each year. And the fabric they use feels like cotton but is performance wear. So soft!

I spent the rest of the evening doing the following...
watched the sunset on top of the Bohemian Hotel
window shopped the eclectic shops of the RiverWalk
explored the Christmas crafts/art market on the RiverWalk
got lost in the Christmas decorations, listened to live music, and explored the art walk in the Village Market...with free wine and snacks!

 

This specific weekend in Savannah is a great time to kick off the Holiday season! Just a short water ferry ride away, there is a drive thru Christmas light display next to the Westin. Speaking of the Westin, they have a huge lit up tree outside and inside, as well as a gingerbread competition in the lobby! Back on the Riverwalk side, they have an art/craft market, a outside movie on the jumbotron, carolers and dancers on stage, and fireworks on Friday night. On Saturday they have a parade that runs down the cobble street! So if you are coming for the race, make sure to stay for all the festivities!

 

The race started at 8am so I had to make my way to the ferry at 630a to get to the Convention Center next to the Westin where the 5k and Double Pump starts. (The 10K starts at the Civic Center at 9a.) I was early and the line wasn't bad at all....in fact, I think it was the first one to cross! It was a chilly morning but the day was going to be perfect running conditions....not too cold, not too hot. Most people wait inside the Convention Center and the lines for the 2 bathrooms start backing up quickly. From experience of staying at the Westin the year before, I knew exactly where everything was, so I just acted like a guest, utilized their bathrooms, took some pics of the gingerbread houses and trees, and stayed warm away from the runners chaos.

This race is very family and walker friendly, which is really great, but if you are looking for a PR, this is something you should know to line up appropriately. The director has done wonders the past couple years and has the runners on one road at the starting area and the walkers on the other road, which start a couple minutes after the runners. It still can be pretty congested. The bridge does stay open, only 1 lane is closed for us crazies to tackle the steep piece of medal. The bridge doesn't have sidewalks, so this is the only opportunity people have to go up it all year! The 10k is not nearly as crowded.

The entire Double Pump I felt pretty good. Actually, my times were really good for a bridge run. The first incline of the 10K is the steepest and just about everyone in my pace were walking. The turn around point before the last incline, I ran out of steam for a couple minutes, but was able to muster through. The several people dressed as bulls and torros as well as Wonder Women kept me entertained the entire course. However, I was disappointed I didn't see more costumes....well, more disappointed that I didn't do a costume because it seemed my chance to win would have been high. But I was super excited and proud to finish the Double Pump!

The After party for the race is one of the best out of all races I have been to. Endless beer...well, until the kegs run out, and endless Brunswick stew! YUM! There is always a live band for entertainment as well. Age group awards are handed out and then they do the costume contest, winners based on crowd support.

Unfortunately because I had to make my way down to the Palm Beaches Half packet pick up before 6p, which was a 6 hour drive away, I couldn't stay and party, or even see all the costumes :/ Maybe its for the better. I will be back in costume again....just wait! But I can always say I am a Double Pumper!!!....and Ive got my medal to prove it!

Inaugural Fort Myers Beach Half Marathon-Nov 10, 2014

This was the Inaugural Fort Myers Beach Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5k where roughly 1,500 runners took on the challenge, the first of its kind in the area. The directors also set up a beach obstacle course the day before called Survival Beach, in which roughly 500 participants took part, making it a full weekend family race destination!

The race was originally set for Nov 17 and I jumped on board with a super early, super inexpensive registration. A few months into the year, we received an email stating the date needed to be changed due to a conflict of interest with another city event. The organizers were kind enough to let us make a decision on refunding or accepting the new date. Unfortunately I did not realize the new date was the same as the Bike Donna event (which I have been wanting to participate in the past couple years now!) and I accepted the new date. Nothing could be done once I realized it.

DAY BEFORE
Due to money constraints, I drove the 5 1/2 hours down from Jacksonville the day before the race. To make the best of time, I was on the road by 430am, where I planned to spend the day resting on the beach. However, the overcast, windy day had a different plan for me.

I stayed the 'Host' hotel, the Pink Shell Resort. Which was probably the best thing about this race weekend. As they provided 2 complimentary drink coupons and offered a day pass with access to the Marina shower, if the late check out was not available. They also provided a full kitchen, free bottled water, and a beach bag to keep! However it was a good mile away from Start/Finish. My room included a full kitchen, so I had brought my own food and just had a relaxing afternoon/evening.  I got to watch the end of the Survival Beach right from my room!

 

 

EXPO
I would hardly call this Expo an 'Expo'. Besides the bib/shirt pick up and the race selling more race name shirts, there was about 3 other tables with minimal items. But I wont complain too much, because I did score a $5 New Balance running tank, a free lightweight lunch cooler and bag, and a free towel from Publix. What I was disappointed about was there was absolutely no type of fuel or GU for sale. I asked on Facebook, since I didn't see anything listed about it on the website, and I was told there would be some on the course. The closest running store was a half an hour away so I decided I would be fine.

THE START
The race started at 7a. I was up by 515 to make my walk by 6. I had a nice warm breakfast (which is rare traveling because I don't usually have a kitchen) of oatmeal, banana, and walnuts with coffee.

There were lots of warnings regarding parking. There was only to be limited parking at Start and the city would still be charging. Once the course was set, they added trolleys to take people from the city to the beach. I decided I would just walk the mile. I later found out there was a city Trolley stop right in front of the hotel.

I started my walk to start and suddenly a black cat ran across my path. Worries struck, even though I did get a full 8hours of sleep, and I felt good. The only thing I was worried about was the temps were already at 70 degrees and they were calling for it to be 80 by finish time.

Even being early, the porta potty lines were already backed up. From exploring the day before, I knew where the city public restrooms were and walked back about a tenth of a mile where there was no line at all. The start was on the Intracoastal side and we got a small glimpse of the sunrise over the bridge before race time.

However, when exactly was race time going to be?! There were no corrals. The start was on a turn in the road and people were lined up going into a parking lot and also going along the road. There was no one on the loud speaker to direct us. We waited as the starting time passed and still nothing. Finally we heard a women wrapping up the National Anthem. So apparently they had technical difficulties.

During all of this, I quickly learned my IPOD did not charge. One day I will learn that my tablet does not charge my IPOD for some strange reason. So once again, no music. I knew this was going to be a quiet race.

THE COURSE
With the race including 'Beach' in the title and not just Ft Myers, most of us assumed (which you know what they say about assuming!) that the course would take place at the beach, and hopefully be scenic. Well, unfortunately we were all surprised when the course map finally came out very close to race day and none of it was at the beach! The race organizers once again had issues with the city, this time construction plans, in which they were led to believe the main beach road, Estero, would be under construction. So instead, we started and finished at Nervous Nellies in the Times Square area of the Beach, but within the first .1 of a mile, we were headed straight over the bridge into town.

Yes, that's right, only a tenth of a mile warm up before going up a pretty good sized bridge. And this was an out and back course, so yes, that meant with .5 to go, we were going back over that bridge!

For the most part, we ran along the same stretch of open highway, breathing lots of exhaust all day. The 5k and marathon were on the same route, which led to confusion at turn around points....as in which side were they supposed to run on....the open traffic side or the sidewalk side?...so they did both, leaving people dodging people.

It stayed cloudy for the majority of the race, which was great, because it could have felt a lot hotter. Within the first mile I knew my timing was just not right. I felt like I was going fast, but my Garmin was saying otherwise. Why did I feel like I was using so much more energy? Within the first few miles I had already given up on a PR. I just wasn't feeling right. By M6 I already knew I needed a GU, but there was none until M10! Which was pretty funny because that is when I looked up and saw a rainbow!

The water stations were properly stocked and well staffed. There was very few people cheering on the streets....mainly at intersections....my favorite being a girl twerking at 7-11...and yes, she was still going when I passed back through 2 hours later!

It was really hot the last few miles when the sun came out but fortunately there was a tall mangrove area that provided shade.

THE FINISH
I was expecting a fun finish since it was in partnership with Nervous Nellies, a popular bar! However, I was surprised to walk up to the runners food of your choice of bagels, bananas, and whole oranges and then a bar set up right next to it SELLING the alcohol. I had to ask twice to make sure I wasn't missing something. I was told by race organizers, they wouldn't have had a starting/finish line if they didn't utilize Nervous Nellies. Disappointing the restaurant didn't want to sponsor a celebratory drink.

It was okay though, I had saved my drink coupons from the hotel! I walked back to the hotel and jumped into the refreshing pool (after finding out only certain rooms have hot tubs and there is not one for the whole hotel). After my drinks, the clouds had rolled back in and it seemed it wasn't going to be a beach day, so I packed up my things, had breakfast at Tuckaways, and drove back home.

THE SHIRT
The shirt was unisex. I like the slogan, yet Ive been seeing other cities utilize this as well. They provided other colors for the full, and 5k.

THE MEDAL

The Full and Half both got a medal, with different color ribbons.

OVERALL THOUGHTS
Fort Myers Beach is a perfect destination race weekend location! And it doesnt seem there are a lot of races in the area. There is great potential for this race once the Course logistics, and Start/Finish line and Expo kinks are worked out.

When I was heading back home, I was driving the race course and saw the last few marathoners coming over the bridge to the finish line. The truck was picking up the cones right behind them. It is awesome to see marathoners determined faces/bodies continue on their mission no matter how many hours they had been at it. (this was going on 6hours later). As I drove along, I came across another runner, and then another. The course was technically closed, yet they continued on. I felt proud for them and it brought a smile as I know I will be tackling my full marathon in just a few short months

A few moments later there was another runner. She was in a slow walk and there were 2 medical bikers walking with her and talking to her. Yet they continued on. I couldn't even imagine the words that were being spoken to her at that point. Hopefully they were words of support and encouragement. It really hit home at that very point. It doesn't matter what the course may be like. It doesn't matter how exciting the start or finish line are. It doesn't matter whether there are extra perks or not. All that matters is you had the courage to sign up for a marathon. You had the courage to get out there and train. You had the courage to show up to the starting line. And you had the courage to finish this marathon no matter what! That process.... that feeling...it is life changing. And it is a feeling you will never forget! Congratulations to all the marathoners!

HM #32
2:27

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DIVAS Long Island-Oct 6, 2013

 

 

 

 

This was the 3rd Annual Long Island DIVAS Half Marathon and 5k. The DIVAS hosts a series of events in multiple locations across the nation including Puerto Rico. As you can imagine with just the name alone, this is a fun filled weekend celebrating womanhood. Of course men race too and they do, many of them participating in the fun by dressing up either in drag, a tutu, or just join in the sea of pink!

 

The DIVAS races include a slew of benefits and goodies throughout the weekend, all keeping the girly theme. This race included a Host hotel (Marriott Uniondale) in walking distance (but also included shuttle for a fee), a welcome specialty drink (for fee), a pre race pasta party at the hotel restaurant (for fee), Celebrity guest Ali Vincent  from the Biggest Loser at the Expo and Race, boa and tiara on course (last mile), a Finish Line will roses, champagne, and shirtless men, a dance DJ at the Finish area, and an After Party at the Host hotel that evening (no comment on this, as we had to depart before party time).

 

There were 1,898 half marathoners and 1,200 5kers at this years DIVAS Long Island event.

 

This race was a last minute surprise for myself. As I was paid for, registered, and ready to take on the Smuttynose RockFest Half in Hampton Beach, NH in a few weeks when I was approached by The  DONNA group to represent them at the Divas Long Island Expo and Race! Despite the refusal of Smuttynose to refund or defer my registration, I still took the opportunity as this has pretty much my sole purpose of the last 3 years of running a half per month!....to benefit breast cancer awareness via The DONNA!   

 

I was partnered up with The DONNA' s Social Media Butterfly,' Marcia blogger of 'Travel, Run, Eat' and I don't think it could have been more perfect! Our personalities meshed well and we had a blast! We flew nonstop to JFK on my new favorite airline, Jet Blue! At check in, they even had a donation jar for The Donna! There wasn't much time after the excursion to pick up the rental car, driving into Uniondale, and checking into the Marriott before we had to be down the street at the Expo! (and yes, we were still late).

 

 

It was a two day Expo at the Mitchell Field Complex in Uniondale. The expo was of a good size and had some very unique vendors.  The Donna race had just announced their brand new Virtual option for the half and full marathon. We were super excited to help spread the word at the Expo! We met a lot of interesting and friendly people during the 2 days.

 

 

It was a quick day and we were both famished after not eating all day so we headed to Vincents Clam Bar for dinner and had some of the best and Biggest Italian food!

 

 

 Saturday was another long and busy day spent at the Expo, but there were lots of people interested in The Donna and we left super proud! We then had dinner at Grimaldis, arriving just 2 minutes before the wrap up of happy hour (pizza pie included!!) We then arrived back at the hotel to tail gate city!...apparently our room faced the Hockey Stadium! The windows were definitely thin as we could hear them in our room. Luckily they ended early enough, or we were too tired to notice and our sleep wasn't disturbed!

 

Working the two day Expo was definitely exhausting and I woke up not as well rested as I wanted to be (and definitely overly stuffed from all the carbs the past 2 days, and beers!)

 

We tried to sleep in as much as possible, knowing we were close to start, but still had a good mile walk (we drove it out the night before).

 

It was a cold, overcast, and drizzly morning. I still ran in my skirt and DONNA tank and convinced Marcia to do the same, although I think she later regretted it. We picked up a couple 5kers for the walk to start, as they were trying to get on the sold out shuttle without luck. Little did they, or we, know the 'only 1 mile' walk would be more like 2 (they didn't let us do our cut thru the park we had planned). Those poor 5k girls did a 10k by the end of the day!

 

The 5k was set to start in waves before the half marathon. We were just approaching start when the 5k first waves were starting. We had to scurry to take a couple pictures, get myself in the porta potty (plenty of them, and short lines, Thank God!) and line us up in our corral. The race had an honest system on the corrals. I convinced Marcia to start off in a faster pace of about 9min. Ali Vincent made a few words and then we were off!

 

 

 

 

One would think that a race in Long Island would showcase some part of the beach area. However, this race is held in Uniondale NY and the course itself looped around a business area and Eisenhower Park. It is not a scenic race at all. But just as scenic as you can get for a city race! We later learned as we explored Long Island Beaches after the race, there probably isnt a route that would make the race scenic with the beaches. So all in all, it was still a good destination to be central to some great areas to make a long race destination weekend! There are great day trip opportunities in both directions...NYC and the Hamptons. Of course, there is never enough time for everything and it was a quick in and out race for us.

 

The race started off quick. Its fun to have a friend in the same race, as it feels like there is more of a competition than just with yourself. Especially since Marcia and I are just about in the same pace and both have a goal for a 5 hour full marathon finish this February. Marcia was doing the Galloway method and I was just going to 'wog,' (walk/jog) listening to my body, knowing I needed to keep it at a 10:31 pace to make a PR.

 

We were leap frogging each other for the first couple miles, so I decided to give her method a try. However, I quickly learned her runs are faster than mine and I couldn't hang on for even a mile so I let her go. I was hurtin early. I wasn't feeling it at all and I had serious doubts. But having the average per mile goal and keeping Marcia in my sight kept me on track. Midway through I got some motivation back when I finally was able to catch up to and pass Marcia. I knew at that point it was going to be close call for me to PR.

 

The course was pretty flat with a few slight inclines. For me it was an almost perfect Fall day. The leaves were starting to change color and there were even a few moments where the wind blew and the colored leaves were falling down over us as we passed by. It was a peaceful and gorgeous sight!

 

 The last mile was a difficult one. I had to put some serious effort into it to make up a little bit of time. I grabbed the tiara and boa and threw it around my fuel belt. No time to be a prissy runner now! I ran and I ran hard. I ran fast. I probably ran my fastest I have ever ran. I could feel every muscle of my body engaging. I could feel my lungs working to the max. And it felt good. It was going to be close, but I was not going to give up being this close!

 

I crossed the finish line grunting and probably making the ugliest face at any race, but I made my 1 minute PR!

 

 

 

The Finish had the usual running food and the champagne?...a swallows worth. :/  It was too cold in wet clothes to hang out with the 'Dance DJ', so we quickly took some pictures and did our walk back to the hotel (this time finding the cut through we wanted!)

 

 

The medal is big and unique, but unfortunately not unique to each city, besides the name. (This years Long Island DIVAS medal looks almost identical to my Myrtle Beach DIVAS from 2 years ago!) But they do feature a tiara and a spinning part where you can put your picture on one side. The shirts also keep the same kind of theme.

 

I would highly recommend this event to anyone looking for a fun race, welcoming of every type of runner! Everything is very well organized and thought of ahead of time. I have participated in two DIVAS locations now without any snafus. And of course anything with Pink and that celebrates Womanhood, I am a fan of!

 

13.1-2:17

HM #31

 

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ZOOMA Cape Cod-Sept 28, 2013

About

This was the 3^rd Annual ZOOMA Cape Cod held in Falmouth Mass. It is a women’s focused race, but men are always allowed to run. Some of them even make it fun and dress as women! There is a half marathon and a 10k option. There were 398 female and 7 male half marathoners and 264 female and 7 male 10k runners. The charity beneficiary was Every Mother Counts.

Day Before

I was up at 4am Friday to fly into Boston and drive the hour and half to the Cape. I stopped in at the Expo along the way which was held inside the host hotel, the Sea Crest Resort. This put me at my hotel in Chatham (an hour away) at 4p. It made for a long exhausting day, but hey, the perks of being a travel agent includes free hotels! Which unfortunately are rare these days, so you take them when you can! (The host hotel was charging $200/night!) I found myself in bed by 7p, but not before a nice bubble bath in the Jacuzzi tub and a lounge by the fireplace!

Expo/Packet Pick Up

There are many perks involved in signing up with ZOOMA…the swag bag includes a yoga mat, water bottle, and race shirt! Also, early registration gets you a ‘training’ package in the mail (included samples and coupons and motivational quotes).  At the Finish Line you receive a necklace and the After Party included all you can drink Wine and Champagne!

Packet Pick up was a breeze.... In and out with no lines. The Expo had just a few stands, but the vendors that were there had some serious discounted items. Being a broke travelling runner this month, I just grabbed my needed supplies and headed off.

Speaking of being broke (I planned 3 races/vacations back to back without realizing it).
This is how a 'Broke Travelling Runner' functions during race weekend….

• Scores a free hotel for the weekend which came with a welcome plate of cheese, crackers, olives, nuts  and wine ( can we say free dinner!?!)
• Stocks up on the free samples at the Expo...powerbars and Muscle Milk for breakfast!
• Stocks up on the free samples at the Finish Line and After Party for snacks for the remainder of the stay.
• Packs premade pb sammies, bananas, granola, oatmeal (make oatmeal with coffee maker!)
• Packs a chicken and veggie wrap and cucumber slices for the plane ride.
• Brings an old race water bottle for the plane ride...and stocks up on pretzels/peanuts (always ask for extras!)
• Grabs the free fruit in the hotel gym
• Utilizes any free gift card/coupon received in the mail recently (aka Thanks TGIFridays, Starbucks, and Chilis!)

Ok, back to the race....

The Start

The Start and Finish were at the beautiful Sea Crest Resort, so I had the hour drive again. I was up by 4am (second day in a row) and at the start by a little after 6am which gave me the best parking of right next to the hotel. (The Race stated at 730a.) On the drive over in the pitch dark, I had a wild wolf run across the road in front of me! Was pretty amazing. I had never seen one in the wild before!

We really couldn’t have asked for a better location or better weather! We woke up to a chilly 46 degrees, but as soon as that sun rose in the cloudless sky, it quickly warmed up. (in the 50s for the race and 60s afterwards).  By the time most of us had crossed the Finish Line and were celebrating on the beach at the After Party, it was warm enough for a few brave souls to lounge in bikinis and even a couple took a dip in the cold water!

The perks of starting/finishing at a hotel?....REAL bathrooms!! There were still plenty of 'Fancy' porta potties with flushers and sinks, which I utilized when the hotel line got long.  

They had a few pacers (with balloons on their backs??). But I mainly only saw the really fast ones and there were about 3 of them for 1:50...Y?? I put myself slightly behind 2:10 thinking I just cant let the 2:15 pacer beat me (if there was one, because no one with a balloon passed me and I finished at 2:19! oops...spoiler alert!)

The Plan
My original plan was to run/walk a pace that would get me to beat my PR of 2:24. However, I quickly learned my Garmin doesn't have 2 alerts (I need a run 3, walk 1) and my new Galaxy 4 phone doesn't fit in my IFitness belt. ARGH. Doing the calculation, I knew I had to maintain a 10:40 to PR. So the new goal? Just do what I could to stay under 10:40. Sounds simple right? LOL I was amazed it almost was!

PR Challenge
Why the need for a PR? Well, 1, its fun to PR. But also, I hadn't ran a really good race in a while. But ALSO, because this race gave away Necklaces at the Finish Line, not Medals! SAY WHAT?!...But wait, I knew I registered for a reason! If you proved a PR and then beat it, then you received a Zooma PR Medal!! YEA!! Must. P.R.!!

Course

The course was pretty amazing! The gorgeous day added to the already picturesque seaside communities! There were lots of water views during the first half. We also ran along the peaceful Shining Sea bike path for a good portion. My Ipod had died by M5 (I really need to learn to charge that thing!), but it was nice to listen to the such calmness of the woods. At one point we ran by galloping horses. It really was jaw dropping to unexpectedly see them running along with us!

The second half was through some charming cottage neighborhoods. But it also had some busy (and open to traffic), unruly sidewalks (which most of us skipped and went for the open road). There were also a lot of hills on the back half of this race. Not too steep, but definitely constant. It made it a good challenge though, especially the last one right at the finish being the biggest and longest!

Water Stations/Volunteers

The water stations were all properly manned and stocked. Cytomax was the fuel. Gu was passed out on the course. The volunteers were friendly. There were few spectators/cheerleaders on the sidelines along the course, but for me, I honestly didn't seem to miss them on this course.

Finish Line/After Party
Location....location...location! This race stepped it up in partnering with Sea Crest Resort! Located on Old Silver Beach, it is one of the prettiest!....white sands, aqua water! After crossing the Finish Line (which the announcer did excellent on calling out the names), we received our necklaces, a water and banana, and were sent over to the Beach! Steel drums drew you in and relaxed our tired bodies! All the vendors that were at the Expo were there again in case you forgot anything at the Expo. The PR medal tent was set up with photo opportunity.

Tables and chairs were set up on the sand, as well as loungers for anyone to use. The pool was open for those staying at the hotel. I soaked my tired legs in the ice cold water of the Bay. A few people braved it for a full swim!

Barefoot Wine and Champagne endlessly flowed until about 12p. There were foam rollers and yoga matts set out to stretch or you could wait for a free massage! They held a yoga session as well, but I never saw it.

The food option was a chicken or hummus wrap, pasta, and fruit. Muscle Milk and Honest Tea were available as well.

After a good hour or so resting and chatting with some fellow runners, I almost was dreading the drive back. Never have I ever stayed til the end of a race After Party! Good Job Zooma!

Medal/Necklace

This years race focused on giving away necklaces at the finish line instead of medals. I don’t know why. Maybe because its girly and this is a womens race? Maybe because they are trying to stand out and be different. I don’t know. But I want a medal when I go the distance! And not having a medal will keep me from registering for a race. I mean, I am trying to check off all 50 states. I need a medal to represent each one! Luckily this race offered a Personal Best Challenge. Register with your current PR (provide a race name, location, year, and your time) and you had to beat that time at this race and you received a medal! Challenge Accepted!

It’s funny because I went into this week reading an article about an older runner disappointed in the younger generation of runners attitudes on races. He was basically disqualifying the theory of running a half marathon 'just to finish.' He was saying there is no longer any competition. It really hit home because I do find myself in that moment of ‘hitting the wall’ telling myself, 'oh its ok, lets just make this fun. Lets just finish.'

This race there was no way I was NOT going to get a medal! I had to do a lot of cursing at myself. I had to keep reminding myself that ‘this was a RACE’. This was not a walk in the park. If im not feeling exhausted, im not working hard enough! And it was funny because as I amazed myself in the first 3 miles (completing my fastest 3miles under 30 min!) and as the miles kept flying by, I thought to myself, 'wow, races really do go by fast when you run fast!' LOL

Overall Thoughts
I finished with a 5 min PR and got my medal for MA, State #13!! I honestly believe the extra 'challenge' did it for me. This race is definitely one I would highly suggest! There is not a single thing that went 'wrong.' Sure there are always things that could be 'better,' but that is only my opinion, and you know everyone has one. It was a seamless race weekend and FUN and BEAUTIFUL!
I get asked all the time what my favorite race has been so far on this journey of completing all 50 states. I haven't really had one were I can say absolutely this one (besides 26.2 with Donna of course!) until now! Kudos Zooma Cape Cod!!

13.1-2:19

Half Marathon #30

State #13

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Roswell, GA Area 13.1-August 17, 2013

 

This was the 2nd Annual Roswell Area 13.1 Half Marathon. This fun night time Alien invasion themed race is held in the small town of Roswell GA right outside of Atlanta. There were about 1700 runners that escaped the invasion and a good portion of the proceeds went to charities.  

 

 I was scheduled to run the Pittsburgh Rock n Roll for August, when at the end of April they decided to cancel due to city officials and security reasonings (this was to be the Inaugural and they made this decision right after the Boston attack). I had to scurry to find a replacement in one of the worst race months of the year(because its so hot, there are minimal to chose from). I decided to stick with a 'local'  (anything within driving distance) instead of having to figure out airfare AGAIN with short notice.

 

The cute alien medal convinced my friend Vicki to join me for this race, which I really appreciated the company on the long 6 hour drive....in the pouring down rain!!

 

The forecast was predicted to be almost perfect...65 degrees...but a 60% chance of rain. As we got into town, the rain kept coming and going.

 

We arrived at the Alpharetta hotel around noon and had lunch at Jasons Deli. We then decided we might need some layering for the race since the rain was keeping it cool...so we created our own Expo and went shopping! (it was convenient our hotel was near a mall!)

 

We then came back to the room in time for a 2 hour nap....I think I slept 20 minutes. I bought a 5 hour energy, knowing I would be going into the race exhausted. Driving by itself is tiring, add in the stress from hydroplaning=not fun!

 

Packet Pick Up

We prepped in the room and headed over to the race, where we could also pick up our 'packets'....except someones registration couldn't be found! Yep, that's right.  Apparently 'Ms Organization' wasn't so organized this time around! I still dont know how that happened. Luckily, the lady in charge handled it very professionally and provided me a bib and tshirt. (donation check is in the mail!!)

 

They offered packet pick up the days before the race at a sports store for those already in town.

 

There were a couple vending tables at the start, including Moms Run This Town, which handed out cool alien tattoos and car stickers! They had a food stand selling burgers/dogs, as well as an icy stand, which was funny as the race was so prepared for a Hot August race (cold wet towels provided too) and we had nice cool temps!

 

It was starting to rain again, so we sat in the car and waited it out....for over an hour. Good thing we had LOTS of glow stick bracelets and necklaces to play with!

 

As the rain wasn't lightening up, I decided that I had to do away with my pink colored bangs and wear a hat (Thanks to Vicki for giving it to me on this trip as I left mine at home!) After a wardrobe change and contemplating wearing the Garmins, Ipods, jackets, we finally had to get in the rain and use the porta potties for the last time. The race had a pretty good amount of outlets, so no long wait.

 

Starting Line

It wasn't clear on where exactly the starting are was. Everyone was lingering at the Huge Alien Finish Line when a voice over the loud speaker directed us to the main street.  

 

As we lined up, we realized the rain had stopped. There was not to be another drop the entire race!Can you say LUCKY?! I was a little disappointed I didn't have my Garmin to keep my pace and Vicki's rain jacket she decided to wear went straight to being tied around her waist! Too late to run back to the car!

 

Vicki convinced me to line up with the 2:15 pace group. (my fastest is 2:24) My plan was to stick with her as long as a could, but I knew that wouldn't last long. (It ended up being less than 3 miles.)

She kept waiting for me and I finally convinced her to go ahead and PR this race! Shes been working super hard at her running and eating habits and has lost over 30lbs. I knew she had this one in the bag!

 

The Course

I quickly realized this race that claimed to be 'super flat' was super NOT! It felt like we were on a constant incline for most of the race with the second half having at least 3 good sized hills. It was not a hilly course, don't get me wrong. But it was not flat. Maybe 'Georgia Flat.' But definitely not "Florida Flat!"

 

The course was basically two 'out and back' loops and ran on a nice trail system along the Chattahoochee River. Some of it was muddy, but the majority of it was paved. About half way, the course went right by the finish line, which is never a fun thing to see when you are a slow runner! By the time I hit the second half, it was starting to get dark with the overcast skies. We headed into a woodsy area with glow sticks hanging from the trees, lighted bags lining a bridge, and a dark alien infested tunnel! It was all very fun!

 

It started to get super dark quickly. The course had huge spot lights which lit up the road for a long ways, but was also very blinding as you approached. Then you had the spots that did not have any light. Those were blindingly dark. So dark at points I was relying on other runners with head lamps. (why did I leave mine in the car?!) And when they weren't around, I was praying I would not twist my ankle on a cracked sidewalk or tree root (but the sidewalks seemed in really good condition).

 

There was an 'infamous hill,' which I knew nothing about until the people turning the corner coming off of it, where yelling "don't go up there! That's where all the aliens are!" It was quick, but it was Steep!

 

From there it was a few more hills and then a turn around at M10. It was pretty much coasting downhill from there into the Finish Line.

  

The Plan

I kept going back and forth with my game plan on my usual wog (run/jog) or try to once again run the full 13 (this would be my 2nd time). I was feeling good going fast in the beginning, but I knew I wouldn't be able to maintain that pace. I quickly slowed my pace and decided I was going to go for it all, no matter what my time....I wasn't wearing my Garmin anyways! About M4 I let the 2:15 group go and decided I just wouldn't let 2:30 catch me. But at M10, I was rubbing shoulders with the 2:30 pacer! I quickly cursed at him for catching up. But I wasn't going to let him deter me. Nonstop no matter what!

 

I met a couple people on the course. A girl named Jill that runs the 26.2 with Donna and a guy that agreed with me on the nonflatness (yes, I just made up that word). It felt good to spread the word about the Donna!

 

Water Stations and Volunteers

The hydration/fuel stations were almost excellent. They were spaced properly (a couple too close together, but I think its because they did a table for each out and back). However, only a couple stations had Gatorade and I must have missed the first one. They handed out some sort of GU twice (which was NOT GU and tasted like crap), which is more than usual on a half.

 

All of the volunteers at the stations were SUPER excited and happy to be there! It really does make a world of difference when they are loud and enthusiastically yelling out motivational words!

 

M10 my knee was hurting abnormally more than usual which had me scared and made me walk the complete water station, instead of just enough to swallow. But just that little bit helped and the pain subsided. Weird. My quad on the other leg, however, would be the enemy for the remainder of the race. It threatened to pull a few times, so much so I had to slow my running, just so I wouldn't have to walk. I was thinking I needed salt. I had taken 2 GU packets and tried the one they handed out, but it tasted like crap, which almost made me spew. I started licking my hands and arms to try to get to some salt. One of these days I will learn to carry salt packets!

 

Finish Area

I hobbled all the way up to the Finish, but managed to pick up some speed in the home stretch. I had no idea what my time was, but I knew it probably wasn't as good as I wanted it to be. Vicki cheered me in at the finish line and I found out she set a huge PR! I am so Proud of her! As for me, I am happy that I proved to myself that I can tackle the full 13 without wogging. However, I am still a bit confused and have mixed feelings on why my time was so much slower than usual....by a full 10 minutes! I can analyze it over and over, but really does it matter? Probably not. The important thing is I gave it my all. The importance in life is always giving it your all and supporting those around you to be the best that they can be as well.

 

The finish area was pretty lame. No beer (don't they know that is the best carbs?). And the food boxes were EMPTY! I mean, I know im slow, but they were allowing for another HOUR worth of runners...and no food? It looked like all they had was bread and some sort of pastries. For the price they charge, they could strongly improve pre/post festivities. I did get a Muscle Milk which held me fine until we hit the hotel bar and then TGIFridays!

 

The Medal 

The medal is cute and I LOVE the runners in the Aliens eyes. Apparently each year is supposed to sport a different color.

Overall Thoughts

All in all if you are looking for a fun themed mid summer race, but one that doesn't necessarily have all the bells and whistles, then this small town night time race course is suggested!  Both Vicki and I walked away enjoying ourselves and said the course is worth repeating! The Area 13.1 also hosts in other cities across the US.

 Finish Time-2:34