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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3rd Annual Shipyard Old Port Half-July 14, 2013

 

 

The 3^rd Annual Shipyard Old Port Half was set to be one of the best races on my calendar of the year!  I was super excited and was itching to run a good race, expecting to PR as I had been working on speed the past month and hills the month before….so I was bound to improve on this nice, cool, flat course! Right?  It had been brutally hot in Florida and I was ready for a nice cool escape in one of the Northernmost states! Little did I know…

Registration

The low cost and small town race (limit 3,000) was a definite factor of signing up early! They provided a promo code as an incentive as well. There were also options during registration to keep the cost down….such as ‘opting out’ of receiving a shirt. If you wanted the shirt, you paid an additional $15. The race entry already included a complimentary water bottle with logo at the finish line, and I hardly ever wear race tsirts, and of course im all about saving money, so I opted out. (later, I did find myself a little jealous not picking one up with my bib, but they had options to buy after the race as well). Besides the free water bottle at finish, the low cost registration came with some more awesome perks!...an After Party with a live band… 2 free local Shipyard beers....free pizza, as well as free sampling from local vendors with ice cream, yogurt, ice tea/soda pop…free massages at the finish line…a scenic course that ran along the water the majority of the race….a small sized race capped at 3,000 runners, free race pictures….I mean, what wasn’t there to Love?! Sounded perfect!

Communication

The website was full of all the information needed for race day. Facebook page was utilized, but I would have liked to have seen more participation getting the runners involved. Answers were also quickly answered on the site. Emails were sent with updates as the date drew closer.

Packet Pick Up

I flew into Portland the day before the race, arriving about 1p. I had been a little sick the week before with a 3 day sinus headache and sore throat. I had been taking all kinds of meds trying to kick it in the butt ASAP, so apparently it left my brain a little hazy. After checking into the hotel, I headed straight to pick up my ‘race packet’, which was a mile and half walk away. Well, apparently I read the info wrong and they stopped pick up at 2p. I arrived by 222p. They had offered Friday pick up, and Race Day pick up as well, so I wasn’t stranded. There was no Expo, but Fri and Sat were held at the local race store if you had the urge to buy. Frustrated, tired, hot (it was almost 80) and already getting blisters from the 3 mile walk (Converse flip flops are not made for walking!), I stumbled around the Waterfront to find an early dinner….Dimilios (a restaurant on a boat) lobster roll it was!

The Start

The race wasn’t set to start until 730a, despite the very (I mean VERY) early sunrise of 5am! I found this a little strange as most races start with the sunrise.

The race had both a half marathon and 5k, both starting at different times, and on different courses, but had the same finish line. There was a cut off of 3,000 runners, yet only about 2,400 runners participated, with a large part dropping down to the 5k. About 1,800 completed the half.

Because I did not receive my bib the day before, I had to make sure I arrived early enough to get it before the race. I majority miscalculated the time, leaving the Holiday Inn a little before 6 to walk about a mile to the Ocean Gateway Terminal (not to be confused with the Casco Bay Ferry Terminal as some of us out of towners were!) It was a breeze to get my bib and beer bracelet, and I still had over an hour to wait. I walked around and used the porta potties (which was pretty quick despite the awkward positioning of the lines at a fence).

The race used an open corralling system…meaning they had Pace Signs up and you used the honest system to place yourself with your anticipated pace. There was a cut off time limit of 3.5 hours, yet no pace signage passed 11minutes.

They held a Zumba warm up which was a bit fun and unique, but not many participated. The lineup was on the pier which is neat, but was extremely crowed. People had to push their way through the crowd to get to the back. There was a delay in the start keeping us claustrophobic for entirely too long. There was no National Anthem like most big races. I quickly learned my Ipod had a dead battery despite my efforts to charge it through my tablet the night before. The sides of my calves were tight from walking around in flip flops the day before. The start was completely in the shade, which made it hard to tell what was yet to come.

 

The Course

The course ran down Commercial St at the downtown Waterfront towards the West Promenade and then back towards the East Promenade, each with a hefty sized hill, and then around Back Cove and back to the Pier where we started. Right away you were thrown into the stench of the ‘working waterfront’ (lots of piers/wharfs with fishing/lobster boats). The second half we got to run by, view and smell a water treatment plant! Both of these we got to experience twice!

There was an amazingly steep hill right about M2.5-3, and I had flash backs of San Francisco! Although the entire race is practically next to the water, you really only get a view of the water around Back Cove….which seems like a lake, but I guess it’s a bay? The majority of the race is in the sun with little shade. Sidewalks and trails are used for a good portion of the race….which leads to tight quarters. The trails in the parks were open to public use as well, which included bikers, dog walkers, and baby strollers….all pace killers.

 

There were several points in the race where I found myself at a complete stand still waiting to get around people. The first mile was a complete laugh fest with the herding system. They roped us in the middle of Commercial St leaving both sides of the road open to traffic. There was not enough space for every to run the pace they wanted. The ‘steep hill’ they warned us about was also laughable as it had the smallest sidewalk and everyone was walking. I, liking to run the hills to get them over with, was finding myself frustrated pushing through.

Going into the race, I knew it was going to be warmer than expected. July always is. But it was Maine. So there was no worries. ….Right?! Wrong!!  I did not realize just HOW hot it would be until we hit about M2 with no wind and humidity over 70%. I had forgotten sunscreen and my racing glasses (I hate wearing them anyways). Thankfully I had my visor because the sun was glaring! Temps rose into the 80s very quickly. Within the first few miles I knew this was going to be a brutal race.

Hydration Stations

Water was spaced out entirely too far for a midsummer race. However, the race did warn of exactly where they would be placed on their website. I hate running with a water bottle. Its uncomfortable and is wasted energy. My theory on races is, “I paid for the water. There should be enough of it!” (Especially when a sponsor is a water company!)

By M3 after the hill, I was already looking for extra water. Fortunately there were water fountains on the course (1 in the West Promenade, the others around the trail of Back Cove). I utilized each one of them as well as the stations. I started getting chills early on, which only meant one thing….I was over heated and dehydrated. Each stop I took an extra water and dumped it over my head and face to try to cool down.

Although it did not impact me, I did hear that stations had ran out of water. The race director said he did not plan to have so many people dump it on themselves. (Really?!)

At M9, I arrived at a station that had ran out of cups. The good thing was a new supply had just arrived. Flash backs of 2011 Rock n Sole came to mind, and so I held onto my cup for the rest of the race, just in case. From here on out the rest of the stations were out of Gatorade. There was no GU offered on the course.  (I always bring 2 of my own so I was fine.)

All in all, there were lots of runners impacted by the heat. Lots of stories of runners collapsing during and after the race. I had never seen so many runners walking. And walking a LOT! Five runners were hospitalized and the race made national news.

Volunteers/Sideline Support

Each station was properly manned with enthusiastic and helpful volunteers. There were plenty of medical and fire volunteers, however, I was disappointed, as each time I passed them, I asked what the temperature was and no one knew. It was well above 80, and any other race I have participated in, warnings are put in place once temps reach this high.

Finish Line

Approaching the Finish was a joke. After a couple of hours of just ‘wanting to finish already and get out of the sun/heat’ I finally saw the 13M sign. That would be .1 to go. However, after .1 or more, I came across the 3M sign. Say WHAT!?? That meant another .1 to go. Not really a huge distance, but the sun not only physically drains you, but mentally as well.

I crossed the finish line and was handed a very ‘light’ water bottle……because there was NO WATER in it!! I had to fight the crowd to make my way over to a ‘water tub’ and wait in line to receive Water! All I wanted to do was drown myself in the water, which is practically what I did. (Sorry for ‘wasting’ water Mr Race Director!)

They gave wet towels at finish line but didn’t make it noticeable, so I had to track one down. They had a medic tent right at the finish line and were giving runners IVs.

The Medal

The medal is original. Very nice! Does not have the date though…may be a way for them to use again.

The Race Directors comments

A few days after the race, the race director sent out an email addressing all the situations that arose race day. I found it more appropriate than trying to address each concern that people were posting on FB.

Shirts-apparently they ran 2 sizes too small, and they allowed you to get a new one

Medals-apparently a couple boxes went missing and a few runners walked away without a medal. The boxes were found shortly later and if someone didn’t get a medal, they will get one

Water bottles-apparently they ran out at the finish line. If you didn’t get one, you will receive one.

All in all, with them addressing each concern, I know that the race director will take everything as a learning experience and better the future races. With that said, its already been announced that walkers will not be accepted.

There is a survey they are encouraging racers to fill out.

Over All Thoughts

I finished the race about 20 minutes slower than normal. I absolutely do not love running in the heat to begin with, but I also do not think that any race is worth putting your health into jeopardy. You must listen to your body at all times. Know your body. Know your limits. Accept your limits when under dangerous conditions. I could not have done anything different. I was prepared for a good run….but under good conditions (weather and race supply wise) But you cannot control the weather…and sometimes you cannot control the race. When I was dripping wet at M3 and getting the chills in the blaring sun, I knew I had to give in. It was a matter of survival, not a matter of a PR at that point. Know your warning signs of heat related illnesses!

All in all Portland is a cool (but HOT) city. It is full of Amazing restaurants!  I had an Amazing lobster benedict for brunch after the race at 555. There are some really eclectic shops to explore as well! 

 I haven’t decided yet if I would recommend this race.

 

13.37-2:43

Wipro San Francisco 1st Half-Jun 16, 2003

The Wipro San Francisco Marathon, also known as the ‘Race that Marathoners Fear’ is comprised of a full marathon, 2 half marathons (each running the two halves of the full) and a 5k. And if any of those are not enough for you, you can join the ‘Worth the Hurt’ 52.4 Double Marathon, in which you run the course in reverse the day before the official race day. There were about 20,000 runners for all events. The race is usually held in July, but due to a conflicting event this year, it was moved to June. Next year is already scheduled for the end of July.

I arrived in California a few days early to adjust to the time zone difference. One would think to rest the days leading up to a race, but not this traveling fool! I spent the time exploring Napa and hiking the Sonoma Coast! I actually unexpectedly overdid it a bit and hiked 13 miles 2 days before race day! But that scenery was worth every step!

 

 

The Expo was ‘A’wesome!

 I arrived into the city with only 24 hours to spend in town, so I hit the Expo and then quickly explored all the tourist attractions before calling it an early night. The Expo had a good variety of vendors and plenty of space to navigate without feeling so crowded. Packet and shirt pick up was a breeze. ID bands for alcohol after the race were provided. I loved how the local university was handing out take home cards full of Mantras and Race Strategies to help you overcoming your obstacle during the race! There were even a couple charity tables set up selling ‘everything for $1’ including GU and other fuel! (wish I knew ahead of time!) With this being a downtown race, we were warned of paying for parking at the Expo. However, there were two options provided to shuttle in, one from the host hotel, the Hyatt, the other from a local sports store! After a few circles around the building, I was able to find FREE street parking just a couple blocks from the Expo! SCORE! If you had to pay metered parking, I noticed on meters, you don’t use cash or card, you use your phone…LOVE this idea!  

 

Communication is Top Notch!

There were constant updates on Facebook and via email regarding the race, any changes from previous years (due to Boston) and just mainly keeping us pumped up for the countdown! They stayed consistent with lots of posts and pictures. Their website is ridiculously packed with information, which can be good and bad. But, if for some reason you couldn’t find your answer on their webpage, then they were quick to answer questions on FB! There is also good community communication between runners on the FB page.  

 

The Training Plan

This is the first race where I actually analyzed the course and elevation charts, as well as video ahead of time.  This Florida gal was going to need some help to ‘survive’ this race! The only hill I had was a bridge over the intracoastal. So that is what I tackled, at least twice a week for a month. Sure, I could have done a lot more, and I knew the elevation was nothing compared to what was to be expected in San Fran, but it definitely helped which made the race more enjoyable, than just tolerable!  

 

The Goal

I didn’t really have a goal going into the race, besides just enjoying the scenery because I knew the hills would prevent me from a PR. However, once I started running, I quickly realized that was not enough for this competitive spirit! It was going to be hard for me to ‘own’ a slower time purposefully. I had to have more of a challenge. So on hill #1 I decided that I would run the inclines on every single hill, including the bridge (which yes is on a slight incline). And that is exactly what I did!  

 

Starting the Day-A OK!

This is the first race in which I participated where each corral had a set time, all about 10 minutes apart. The full and 1^st half were set to start at 530a….my corral 612a. This made it a little mentally challenging on figuring out when to arrive to the starting area….do I arrive before the very beginning, to enjoy all the festivities? Or since I know my start time, do I arrive with just enough time for my corral?

Start was at the Embarcadero, about a mile and half away from my hotel, the Westin at Union Square. The BART wasn’t running, so I didn’t have much of a choice than to walk. Thankfully it was flat the entire way. I decided to leave the hotel at o dark 5am.

They warned of extra security with the gear check (due to Boston). They provided gear bags that were to be the only ones used, which I don’t really know why, since they were solid black. They also restricted the size of water/fuel belts. This didn’t affect me since I rely on the hydration stations (that is what we paid for, right?).

The first security check was a bit chaotic, but thankfully they were organized and had another one a little further down, which only led to a couple minute delay. Bag drop was seamless.

This left me with plenty of time to explore the start area, take pictures, do a shirt exchange (thankfully they allowed this, as ALL the sizes of the womens shirt sleeves were too short. I was able to exchange for a Mens), hit the porta potty (I actually found one without a line! SCORE!), do some stretching, and enjoy an awesome sunrise over the Bay Bridge!

It was a gorgeous morning, about 50 degrees. I had my warm up suit, but was able to shed that early before getting into the corral.

 

 

The Course-‘A’ Hilly One!

The course started at the Embarcadero and quickly ran through all the famous sites…Pier 39, Cannery Row, Ghirardelli Square…and then headed along the waterfront passed a couple parks, all the while the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance, getting closer and closer, until you are finally running over it. It is then a small loop on the other side of the bridge and then you are running back over the bridge, through neighborhoods on rolling hills, finishing up at the Rose Garden of Golden Gate Park.

 

There were a few congested areas and lots of sidewalks were used by runners. The bridge wasn’t that bad, as most of it was blocked off for the runners. (yes, there were still cars, as this is a busy city!) However, its still a race where it would be hard to PR if you are an average/slow runner, trying to weave around people. My Garmin read a total distance of 13.38. (however, there were several picture stops)

 

The race had mentioned entertainment on the course and afterwards. However, for the 1^st Half Marathon, there were only 2 entertainers and nothing at the Finish Line. (I believe this had something to do with noise ordinances) But with all the scenery, and the hype of saying you ran over the bridge, I could go without and still be happy!

The first half the race was ridiculously blue skies! From the very first curve from the Embarcadero, you could see the Golden Gate Bridge clearly. (this was jaw dropping, as the day before I could barely see anything because of all the fog!) I almost had to keep pinching myself as I couldn’t believe how lucky we were for it to be so clear! I must have stopped and taken about 20 photos of that bridge! The second half of the race, the fog came rolling in quickly as soon as I left the bridge. It was beautiful to look back and see the fog lingering over the GGB, as the way it is known to be. Without the sun, it became chilly quickly, but the constant hills for the next few miles kept you warm enough until the Finish.

 

The 1^st half marathon is known to have more elevation, but it is ‘worth the hurt’ being able to run the Golden Gate, not once, but twice. Such an iconic landmark, not many people can say they have crossed it, and for those that have, not many can say that they have raced it! This is a challenging course and has a serious cut off time limit. There were several people that were passed the cut off time, but continued to walk on the sidewalks.

 

 

Couldn’t do without the Supporters/Cheerleaders/Spectators!

There were only a few areas that had supporters lining the course, but the ones that were there where awesome!  We even had a couple stalkers (supporters with signs that you would keep seeing over and over, as they follow you along the course). There were lots of good poster slogans.  And there was a first for me seeing a homeless man holding a sign and giving high fives!

The water/aid stations were also up to par! They had a white electrolyte drink, which I am still trying to figure out what it as. And it was placed properly, before the water. They also provided GU on course. The volunteers were great, and they had separate course directors manage the flow of traffic and runners. These were all manned by Harley Bikers! I don’t know why, but it made me smile. Probably because the Bikers always helped out with the Breast Cancer 3 Day that I used to walk.  Also on the bridge were bridge workers at the ‘gaps’. I am not sure if it was the race directors, or city folk, but it was interesting to see them hang over the railing giving high fives to all of us, all while warning us to watch our step!

 

A ‘Meh’ Finish

It was a nice touch to end in the Rose Garden at the Golden Gate Park. The refreshments were good and unique….a whole small bag of Hawaiian rolls, Panera pastries, bananas, Blue Monkey Coconut Water (which I cannot comment on because my tab broke, leaving me unable to open it) and an Irish Coffee (I guess since most of us were finishing before 9?) I still would have preferred my carbed up beer! I even asked if I could use my drink coupon at the 2^nd half party, but was told no. Everyone received a foil blanket to stay warm (how I kicked myself later, that I didn’t take one).

There was no entertainment at the finish line. There were people sitting around, but with it being cold and just wanting to get out of my clothes, I basically just got my food and got in line for the shuttle.

They provided a shuttle for the 1^st half back to start. It was a long wait to get on a bus, and then a long ride to get back. And then I had a long walk to get back to my hotel. All of that took me about an hour from the time I crossed the finish line. Although it was seamless, and I had great conversation with some people that ran behind me most of the course (I only know this because he told me I was motivating him!), it seems more buses could have been provided to speed things up instead of us waiting in the cold, soaking wet.

 

The Medal has Character

The medal is unique, having different designs on each side. However, it seems a little cheap, being made from a lightweight ‘medal’ and the etching being faded on most of the letters.

 

Thoughts

This is definitely a landmark race that everyone should run at some point in their running career. San Francisco is a perfect Race-cation destination! With the endless opportunities from the big city to engulfing yourself in nature in the surrounding areas of Napa, the Sonoma Coast or Monterey and Big Sur!

I stayed busy hiking exploring the few days leading up to the race which left me being a little sore starting the race. (Ok, actually my calves were killing me and I was scared!) The motivation of knowing this was going to be a different challenge (hills) kept me moving! But yes, I did stop and take about 20 pictures along the way! I mean, I had to! It was after all, the Golden Gate Bridge! I took it easy on the flats, and pushed it on the hills. I couldn’t help but be reminded of life’s daily struggles of ‘hills!’ These hills in life can be your friend or your enemy. It is up to you on how you look at things in life. If you go in with a positive attitude, preparing yourself for that uphill you know that is ahead, you can coast along the way and even enjoy the ride! I took those hills one step at a time, never stopping to walk, even if my slow run looked like I was barely moving! I was still doing it and I was still enjoying the amazing beauty that I was surrounded by and realizing how lucky I have been in this life to be a part of such great opportunities!

 

 

 13.38-2:40

New Jersey Long Branch Half Marathon-May 5, 2013

 

 

The New Jersey Marathon had about 11,000 runners with both full and half (Long Branch Half) options with a 2 man half relay option. The half and relay started about 2hours ahead of the full. It was an A to B course that started at Monmouth Race Track and ended ocean side at Pier Village in Long Branch. From what I gather, the course had changed slightly due to boardwalks still being damaged from Super Storm Sandy six months ago. The mottos for this race were ‘Run, Restore, Rebuild’ and ‘Up and Running’, which took on an even greater meaning with the Boston Marathon attack happening less than a month before race day! It was a mix of emotions for everyone, but there was a definite pride, passion, and strength in just about every one of the runners, as well as spectators!

My weekend started with flying in the day before the race. As we came in for a landing at Newark, I caught a glimpse of not only the cool NYC skyline, but the Statue of Liberty in the distance. What perfect symbolism for the weekend!

I headed straight to the Expo which was held at the same location of start, Monmouth Race Track. With it being Kentucky Derby weekend, the place was packed inside and out. Mint juleps, hot dogs, big hats, bet placing, tv watching… it was a whirlwind inside and out and nothing nor no one was guiding the runners to the right area. After finally stumbling upon the Expo, I found myself even more overwhelmed. It was too crammed packed to even get in the right mindset to shop. Maybe it was the early morning flight and getting lost on the way that soured my attitude, but all I really wanted to do was grab my packet, shirt, and GU and get out.

With making a last minute hotel change from only 2miles from start to now 30 minutes away (all the hotels near start were ridiculously overpriced for what and where they were …ie LaQuinta and Holiday Inn Express wanted over $200 even for a travel agent rate!) and running late after getting lost, I decided to head straight to Pier Village and have a very early dinner because I had a feeling once I got to the hotel, all I would want to do is pass out! A Lobster BLT is what I decided on at Mcloones outdoor patio. I then took a stroll on the boardwalk and came across the finish line and medals. It was interesting to see all the chain link fences put up around the last quarter mile of the race. Even condos were being fenced out. They had a security eagles nest set up as well. Oh, how things are changing for the racing industry!

I finally made it to my hotel by about 630p, laid out my running gear, and was in bed by 7, planning for eyes shut at 8….but that didn’t come until after 9. Race start was set for 640 (sun rise 550a) yet, several warnings about traffic advised to get there between 430 and 5. A bit ridiculous for a non morning person! But I was hoping to be up by 430, out by 5, arrive by 530 latest. I made good time and was in the parking spot by quarter after 5. No problems with traffic. I think the majority of the problems (what I gather from all the bickering) is from the early marathoners who have to come in mixed with the late comers of the half. There were still several half marathoners that were running from the parking lot to get to the start, after the gun went off. I hear there are several entrances to Monmouth, but I36 is the most popular. I also hear that street parking is legal (and free…as the race charged $5 to park). Future runners should do some research on that.

The parking lot was huge and there were several porta potties in the lots, as well as in the starting area. No worry for long lines there. They also had the race track clubhouse open so the majority of the people were crammed inside trying to stay warm. They did announce there would be food/coffee/water, yet I never found it and the people I asked had no idea either. ??

I sat in my car for a good while staying warm with my car rentals heated seats! YES! I stood outside for a bit and realized I was under dressed. I decided to add pants and gloves…good thing I brought them! By the time I got to the gear check (btw, they only allowed clear bags), I decided I didn’t want to forgo my jacket I was wearing and was also to wear as my dry clothes at the finish.  I really didn’t think I was going to sweat with the wind! It was a bit brutal. Little did I know I would be taking it off at M4. I didn’t want to part with it (hey, this traveling runner is one broke runner too!), so I tied it around my waist. The gloves stayed on until about M6. The jacket was put back on at M12 at the boardwalk!

The corrals and start of the race were pretty organized. In fact everything about the race is very well organized and well communicated! Probably the best I have had yet. There are several updates on Facebook. Questions are all answered. And Race Director weekly emails are sent out as well as posted on the website. They also did an excellent job of handling and communicating all new security features after the Boston Marathon attack.

The race ran a little late, about 5-10 minutes…no explanation, but that’s Ok. There were bomb sniffing dogs, lots of checking of bib numbers, lots of officers, and lots of checking to make sure you did not have a bag except the clear one provided. There’s still some things that were a little off….as in a police officer told a man he could not bring in a fanny pack, so the man said he would just leave it in the bushes and the cop said that was fine, but he was not responsible. Really?!

There was also lots of Blue and Yellow, lots of Boston Strong, lots of Jersey Strong, and even to my surprise lots of Pink in the neighborhoods! I found out later May 1-31 is Paint the Town Pink Month for breast cancer awareness in Jersey. I even ran with a man wearing a lot of pink for the majority of the race.  There also were gorgeous Cherry blossom trees everywhere you looked! The neighborhoods were in full bloom for Spring!

They didn’t let anyone line up until about 10 minutes before start. The bag drop was literally right next to the corrals. Helicopters were flying over head (was this the usual news/photographers, or was this security?) Spectators were not allowed at start….but instead were allowed right outside the Race Track…literally yards away…I find this strange too. Same went for the finish line….spectators not allowed at the line, but just a short distance over they were permitted. Spectators were not allowed bags in either location.

A moment of silence for 26 seconds was done for Boston followed by the sing a long of Sweet Caroline. The National Anthem was sang, and we were off.

I placed myself ahead of the 2:20 pace group. Going into the race, my goal was to take it easy, as Ive had a behind the left knee pain the past month and half, which meant there was very little running since the last race.  It was a lot colder than anticipated, about 45, windy, and cloudy. Even completely dressed, I was too cold for a start. I didn’t do a warm up besides walk nor did I stretch other than the little bouncing around in the corral. I knew my muscles were tight from the cold.

 I did try to start out slow but still early on got a pain from my butt, knee, to calf…I believe this is a sciatic nerve issue which I haven’t felt in several months now. Thankfully it quickly went away in the next couple miles. I never felt a real ‘pain’ behind the left knee. I thank my brace and my strength to hold back on training for that. I did however get a pain in the front of the right knee about M6 or so. But looking back at my times, M6 was my fastest mile, so that could be a reason.

That mile I found myself completely in a zone I have never felt before. There were lots of people loudly cheering us on. I had my IPOD pumped up (this is the first time I have ran with music in several months). I was staring straight ahead, yet staring at nothing. As I checked people off one by one (passing) I couldn’t even feel my feet hitting the ground. I felt nothing. I thought nothing. It felt good. When I realized I was doing it, it stopped. I tried to get mad, as emotion helps with speed work...and I wanted that zone back!

I got mad at the Boston Marathon attackers who, whether we admit it or not, have officially changed racing forever. Its not fair! I got mad for the dementia my mom is currently battling at such a young age and whether I admit it or not, things will never be the same. Its not fair! I got mad that although early detection, better drugs, and gene testing has all helped to increase survivorhood for breast cancer victims, we still do not have a cure! It is not fair!  

It felt good to run and to run fast. It had been too long. It didn’t last long, as I mentioned above my right knee started acting up. So much so, I rounded a corner and my body just stopped. As I walked a couple steps, weirdly the pain completely subsided. Other than that I made it 8 miles without walking. My endurance just wasn’t there with all the time off, but I was still amazed  at what my body was able to accomplish!

I took in 2 GUs for the race…about M8 and 11….the race did not provide any, except for the full marathon. The hydration stations were properly stocked though. Plenty of volunteers, and they had the Gatorade before the Water…and in different cups. BIG Kudoos! They even had someone on a loud speaker as you approached each station to announce what was ahead. There was also good signage for the separation of the marathon as well as the relay.

There were a lot of spectators/supporters cheering us on the entire race, which is always nice, but this time it had even more meaning as they too were not going to be stopped from continuing life and supporting the running community! Someone even made about 10 signs with awesome quotes on both sides of the road.

My biggest crash was about M11 in which I struggled for the last couple miles. The last mile was on the boardwalk, which was nice and scenic but VERY windy. You could see a little of the destruction from Sandy, but not much. For some reason the boardwalk was barricaded to only access half of it, which made it very difficult to pass anyone, and/or walk. It probably kept me running a little bit more than usual however. As we approached Pier Village, they had a band, and even more State Troopers lined up. There were still a ton of spectators.  

The finish line and after party were good, but has much potential. They did serve soft pretzels which I have never had a race, but is probably the BEST thing I have eaten at a finish line! I don’t know what it was, even being cold, the salt and bread combination was Great! They gave a bag with a banana, granola bar, and a couple pieces of salt water taffy. There was real food, but for sale only unfortunately. There also wasnt any beer or recovery drinks. They did have a changing tent which was great to get out of the wet clothes.

The shuttles were delayed due to street closures of the full marathon. We all were warned of this, so I just made my way to a restaurant next door for food and beer! Beware with the shuttle system, there is quite a hike to get to the bus and then get back to your car.

The super early arrival, race, and then timing for the shuttles made for an extremely long day for a half marathon. I was so beat when I got to my hotel, I soaked in the hot tub and then napped til dinner.

My total distance on the Garmin was 13.23. At 13.1, I had a PR of 2:23…yet crossing the finish line meets my best at 2:24.  :/

All in all, I would recommend this race because of its flat, scenic course, excellent communication and organization skills, and community support. Also, keep your eye out of extremely cheap early bird rates!