5th Annual Flying Pirate Half Marathon, Kitty Hawk, NC-May 3, 2014

        

This was the 5th Annual Flying Pirate Half Marathon in the Outer Banks, NC, directed by OBX Sporting Events. There were about 1900 half marathoners, 1200 of them being female (Girl Power!). There is a 5k the day before the half. Combine the two and you've just completed the Double Dare Challenge and gained another kick butt medal! Proceeds from the race goes towards the Outer Banks Relief Foundation and the Dare Education Foundation.

I grew up in Virginia Beach where we would drive down to the Outer Banks almost every weekend religiously in the summertime. This is where my best childhood memories linger, so of course I had to jump on it!

FRIDAY

I decided to risk it and drove up after work late Friday afternoon. The 9 1/2 hour drive put me into town after 1am. It was an unusually easy drive up I95 from Florida. But it wasn't quite late enough for the hotel to give me a partial night discount!

I stayed at the John Yancey Inn ONLY because it was the cheapest pet friendly hotel available. I must warn, the Outer Banks area is not known for their hotels. If you are going to come, make sure you get a house rental. No matter where it is, it is very easy to access the beach and/or Sound. I knew this, but I could not find one budget friendly for a solo traveler.

Unfortunately, my discounted pet friendly room was a smokers room! UGH! I didnt think it would be that bad, but it was absolutely miserable. The room and hotel was disgusting. The complimentary breakfast was nonexistent. The service was not accommodating. If I knew better, I would have slept in my car. Which I may have been better off, as it seemed everyone at the hotel was waking up at 5am for the 5k, just a couple hours after I got into the room! Everyone was leaving their barking dogs behind. I think I got about 3 hours of sleep. I tried to ignore the situation and focus on making the best of the OBX and the race.

SATURDAY
It was a gorgeous day. I headed to the Expo and then did some carbo loading at Duck Donuts, which was one of the best I have ever tasted! Request the maple bacon one!

The afternoon was spent resting on the beach and watching the dolphins and playing with the pup.

I checked out the race start and finish locations, knowing it was going to be super dark in the morning.

I had an early dinner at the Outer Banks Brewing Station, which I was extremely disappointed. Besides the unfriendly pregnant bartender waiting on me, I was surprised the food was served luke warm and without utensils, after they were highly recommended by Guy Fieri and on Trip Advisor.

I grew up appreciating the sunrise on the beach and being able to basically cross the street and watch the sunset over the water as well at the Albemarle Sound. So of course I had go watch the sunset before bed! I walked around the Jockey Ridge State Park Sand Dunes, which I have only done once in my life! These miraculous dunes have to be explored if you are in town, they do go all the way over to the sound to make a perfect sunset location, but it was still plenty of time til then, so I explored the town some more.



EXPO
The Expo was held at a Recreation Center. Packet Pick up was a breeze. The shirt and bag had awesome designs and a 5 year commemorative poster was given. The race group was selling their merchandise and I picked up a really awesome tank top. I was about to buy a hat as well, but was warned we would be receiving one at the Finish!...that was a cool surprise!

They also had a great communications table set up with a layout of the course. I usually, (well, almost never) look at the course before a race. I may glance at it when chosing which races to do during the year, but after registration is paid, I tend to just let race day be a surprise. But for some reason, this table seemed like a great group of folks and they wanted to chat, so I let them explain the course. I was told the last 5k would be on trails and hilly with a brutal one at the end. Ok, thanks for the warning. Save the energy. I was also told there would be GU on course. Awesome!...save some money!


They had some other running companies and cool OBX and pirate souveniors, but being on budget, I just grabbed my free pirate tattoos and headed out.

THE COURSE
The course starts in Kitty Hawk neighborhoods, runs along the Albemarle Sound, by the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and  then through the Nags Head Woods Maritime Forest trails.
This is an A to B course with your choice of shuttle provided....either at the beginning or end of the race. This is also announced as the first half of the OBX Marathon held in November. The course is flat and on paved roads until you hit the last 5k which is on a trail and rolling hills, with a couple short brutal hills at the end.

THE GOAL
Considering I just completed the Lake Minneola half the weekend before, and drove 9 1/2 hours to NC less than 48 hours before race time, my goal for this race was to just enjoy it!

COSTUME CONTEST
There was after all, a Pirate Costume Contest! Yea, that's right! You know this girl is all about costumes! Unfortunately I missed this announcement until the week of the race, so my 'costume' wasn't as dramatic as my usuals. I was happy though and I ended up in the Finals, where the audience cheers chose the winner, which ended up being a Parrot and 2 Pirates group. The Parrot was super cute and hand made, so Im all for them winning! They received a complimentary race entry for next year. Which is fine with me not winning, because we all know, I don't have time to repeat races (except of course 26.2 with Donna!)

THE RESULT
I ran the full first 3miles, with a minute walk break between each mile. I then ran 3x1 until M6, then 2x1 until M10 and 1x1 for the last 3 miles....well, as much as I could on those progressively rolling hills.


It was a gorgeous day and you couldn't really have asked for better. It was very pretty running by the Sound, and then through the neighborhoods with the azaleas in full bloom!

It was cool to run in the Wright Brothers park with the iconic monument. I happened to glance the other way through the open field and saw a huge group of deer coming out of the woods. More and more of them kept coming, and next thing you know, they are running right along side us....at least to
The other group of trees! That was definitely one of the best racing experience ever!

The trails portion of the race was pretty cool and different, but the biting flies were kinda ridiculous! They weren't really biting, but they would circle around you, even as you ran. More of an aggravation than anything.  They warned us of bugs this time of year being in the woods and suggested bug spray. However, even if I did put on bug spray, it would have sweated off by the time we hit those last few miles. It would be a great idea to have some bug repellent wipes or spray cans to use at the hydration station as we enter the wooded area.


SHUTTLE
My hotel was about a mile from the Finish, which was also a shuttle location to get to Start. Shuttles were set to start at 530a. The first ones were a little late, but nothing worrisome. Its about a 25 minute shuttle ride to the Start.


START
Taking the first shuttle to Start, meant there was lots of time before the race time, which meant mingling with the other pirates. I was surprised there weren't as many people in costume as I thought there would be, so I was receiving lots of compliments.

There were plenty of porta potties and I never saw them have a long line, even as everyone was arriving. They had coffee, but no water nor food. My stomach was full when I left the hotel, so I took a risk and didn't eat breakfast. I was starting to wonder if this was a mistake when we lined up, but I think it was more of a hydration issue. Unfortunately the first water station wasn't until M3!


HYDRATION STATIONS/AID
The water stops were ridiculously far apart. The weather was in the upper 60s and sunny. A good portion of the course was shaded, but I still believe water shouldn't be this far apart. They did make up for it in the size of the cups, but drinking that large of a glass of Gatorade or water at a time leads to cramps as you try to continue to run. GU was provided twice on course which was perfect. Aid Bikers paced the course making sure runners were okay.

A couple of spectators had tables set up...one with Bloody Marys and Gummie Bears, another with Mimosas....but now that I think of it, I don't know if the Mimosas were being handed out, or if I just begged for one! ;)

SPECTATORS/CHEERLEADERS
There were a good amount of people cheering on the runners in the first half of the race, for this 2500 runner cap race. There are no spectators in the wooded trail portion. A lot of spectators would yell out "Pirate!" when they saw those of us dressed up! In return of course the sword had to be drawn and yell out an "Aaaarrrrrrrrhhhhh!" Some of the spectators even joined in on the dressing up!



THE FINISH
The very end of the race was a killer trail hill and then down to the line.

We received a hat at the finish line with our medal. They passed out bananas and pbj graham crackers, which I haven't seen in years, but was super excited for!

Over at the Post Party Jamboree, they handed out free egg and cheese biscuits and 2 beers. There was a pretty good band playing as we waited for the awards.

They had a kids activity area and well as corn hole area if you wanted to play


SHIRT

MEDAL

AFTER
I took a few hours to rest on the beach and then headed to VA to meet my mom for dinner. After a goods nights rest, I made the long drive back home.


OVERALL
I would highly recommend this race! They have great communication via email and Facebook, as well as on their website. This could easily be a family event with the 5k the day before! The Outer Banks are listed as one of the top beaches of the Nation and you wont be disappointed if you turn this race weekend into an extended vacation to explore this beautiful coastline! (in a house!) If you have time, make sure you go North towards Corolla to see the wild horses! Or go a little south to hang glide off the Jockey Ridge sand dunes!

STATE #16

HM #38

13.1-2:39



Lake Minneola Half Marathon-Clermont FL-April 26, 2014

This was Lake Minneola half marathon located in Clermont FL. (aka Lakes County) There are several small lakes in this part of  Central Florida and I have quickly learned, several local events including Triathlons (which I hope to one day accomplish).  This event was hosted by SommerSports.

I decided to save on the money and wake up Super early to drive the 2 and half hours before race time. It really was an easy drive…..well, it was a little scary when I hit really thick fog after I got off the interstate on the back roads in the middle of nowhere, and then seeing the Bear crossing signs! Whaaa?! 

I arrived a little after 5am. I had made myself an egg Sammie (which I never eat before a race) and ate it around 4am. I forced myself to eat the banana when I arrived. The granola bar I brought as well, had to wait.

Parking was a breeze right at the start! Packet pick up was set to start at 530a…..but we were quickly told it would be at least 30-45 more minutes. Race time was set for 7am for the half marathon, and 730a for the 10k and 5k.

Prior Communication

There seems to be very little activity with Sommer Sports in the social media world. The websites that had the race information was very minimal, and seemed there were a couple other sites advertising wrong info. I was definitely feeling a little confused being an out of towner, and not getting pumped up the days leading up to the race.

Speaking of being an out of towner, everyone I told I just drove in for the race thought I was Nuts! But I actually enjoyed myself. (and driving 5hours just to run 13 miles! HA!)

Start

The positive of being at a recreation park, is there were public bathrooms….Real toilets!  And there were a couple buildings, so really not much of a line.They had porta potties as well if needed.

The race was combined with a city health event called FitnessPalooza. All sorts of tables and trucks and canopies were being set up in the dark. Not knowing the layout of the park, it was hard to figure out where the Start actually was. I quickly found the Finish, and kept walking and walking and walking, and finally stumbled on the Starting Line. It was 5 til 7a, yet there were only about 10 of us!

Considering packet pick up was running late, the race seemed destined to be late. But they actually did ok, we were only about 5 minutes off schedule. (I don’t know if this affected anyone…if we started without them. But then again, you should be on time).

The Course

The course basically loops around Lake Minneola. To make up some distance, for the half marathon, we did about 7 miles off the lake, and actually found some pretty steep hills. I like to call this the Florida Mountains, since it is probably the largest hills I have seen in FL so far (and Ive covered a lot!) It was about 2 or 3 hills…just enough of a challenge to keep you entertained, since there were absolutely no spectators. All of this is hilarious though, because the race description claims the course is Flat…..uummm…. WRONG.    

It was a very peaceful course. We started and finished at the lake. The first 6-7 mile were on some sort of ‘pavement trail’ which also kept it shaded, which was Good!  It was over 70 degrees, humid, and no wind at all!The roads we did run on, were closed on our half so it was fine with the very minimal traffic. When we ran around the lake, there were lots of trees for the first part to keep us cool. The second part, the sun was at our back, which was better than running into it. Still, I did see the ambulance drive by. And I also passed by someone laid out on the ground. Florida races are just dangerous any time of year. (its only April people, yet already 90degrees!)

Regardless of the heat, and hills, the course is beautiful. I kept telling myself, ‘this beach girl could live at a lake!’

There were only about 400 half marathoners, so it was never crowded.

The Plan

Considering I overdid it just a couple days before the race in the weights room,  leaving my left hamstring feeling super tight,  I decided to just enjoy the race and not worry too much about time. I did afterall, wake up at 2am for this race! I would be insane to think I could PR! Especially in this heat! I did a 3x1 for the first 5 miles, a 2x1 for the next 4 miles, and a 1x1 for the last 4 miles. I actually felt pretty good at the end of the race, except for the fact that my leg never really loosened up too much.

Hydration Station

Water and Gatorade was provided and was stocked well enough for this small event. No gu or fuel was provided. The stations were about 1.5M apart. I really wish hot weather events would realize they need to have hydration at every mile. I was actually fine myself, for the most part. I ended up dumping water on my head towards the end to stay cool.

The Finish

We were handed a medal and a water, and all I could see was an Icy Station! Sweet! I walked over and realized they were selling it! Oh, so this must be part of the FitnessPalooza. I walked around to the different vendors and chatted with some. A lot of them were doing challenges to win prizes, which I giggled because who wants to do a burpee challenge after running 13 miles in the heat?

Then I quickly  realized I never saw the finish line food! It was basically hidden. I spotted the Muscle Milk and watermelon (YES!) and bananas and tubs of Pasta. Awesome, I thought, Im starving! Wrong! Absolutely nothing to eat it with! Oh how I almost just stuck my hand in the pasta dish and walked away! Luckily some of the vendors gave away some freebie samples that held me over. 

To cool myself down some more, I walked over to the lake to soak my legs. I almost wanted to jump completely in, but I refrained, basically because no one else was!

I quickly learned the bathroom had a shower as well! Perfect! I could clean up before my drive home. Oh, how little did I know it was only ice cold water!

The Shirt

The shirt is the brightest neon yellow I have ever seen. It almost hurts to look at it. But I guess it will come in hand for night training runs.

The Medal

The medal matches the shirt in design…but not yellow. Lol

Challenge

There is a challenge that includes this race and the Orange Blossom Half, if you are interested in claiming some extra bling.

Overall Thoughts

I am super please with the race because it was pretty and simple. It was an easy drive from Jacksonville. I love to support smaller events, but not have the proper food at the finish line is just unacceptable. I really hate that it ended that way, because I was super happy with everything else….well, they didn’t have beer either, but you know, I had to drive home anyways. Lol

HM #37

13.1-2:26

Coral Springs Half Marathon-March 29, 2014

This was the Coral Springs Half Marathon and 5k benefiting LisaBoccard Breast Cancer Fund. There were about 411 half marathon participants and 657 5kers.

I drove down from Jacksonville Beach to stay with friends who live in Homestead, which was about a 5 hour drive. I broke up the monotony of the drive on the way down and back with a beach pitstop! I love checking out new beach towns!

PACKET PICK UP

On the way down I stopped at the Packet Pick up which was held at a small local race store called Runners Depot in Coral Springs. This was a small race, so packet pick up was available the morning of the race as well.

We were provided a white tech shirt (which I am still unsure if the logo was supposed to be crooked. Which may be, because the medal ended up that way too....driving this type A personality a bit bonkers! lol) and the usual plastic drawstring bag with a couple goodies of some sort of energy chocolate, biofreeze, sunscreen, etc. I tried to purchase some GU, but instead was forced to take it for free because the machine wouldn’t scan. Thanks Runners Depot! :)

 

After making it to Homestead, we had a quick tour of the Everglades and the biggest and most unique fruit stand I have ever been to!-Robert is Here! It was so awesome, I went 3 times in my 2 night stay! And got to experience Gunanbana, a cancer fighting fruit from S America, as well as an awesome key lime shake!

 

A couple other Running Buddies came over and my host made us lobster mac n cheese for dinner….a Perfect SFL pre race meal! We tried to call it an early night, as the race started at 6am, and we had to be up at 330a with the hour drive!

START

Our group made it to the starting area about 530a, which was perfect time to use the Pink Ribbon porta potties (with personal bathroom attendants that cleaned after every use!....Welcome to SFL!!), snap a couple pictures and head to the starting line!

All of us were running the half, except one doing the 5k, which started an hour and half after us!

This is a small town race, and the speaker system used at the start was horrible so we couldn’t hear a thing. I think they were giving a warning about staying hydrated with the humidity. We woke up to about 100% humidity and I found myself at the starting line already sweating and thirsty. Temps were predicted to rise into the 80s.

GOAL

My plan was to just do a 'run a minute, walk a minute', as I had not run much since the 26.2 with Donna marathon last month. However, 3 of us had a nice slow and steady pace for the first 3 miles, so I held on before giving into walking.

From there I did a 1x1, but still ended up catching back up to the other 2 girls who were running a few miles at a time before walk breaks. Around M10ish one of my friends was having a rough time with the humidity and slowed down considerably, so I decided to just stay with her, as I hadn’t seen anything regarding medics or first aid at any of the stations. I was having a hard enough time hanging onto my 1x1, with me not doing any distance running in the past month, so I was happy to have a buddy to take it slow with. No need for injuries! No matter how bad you want to perform well at every race, you have to listen to your body first and foremost! There are a lot of things that can happen during a race that is out of your control, and weather is definitely one of them. The best thing to do at that point is to focus on the positive things happening around you. And be happy that you even have the opportunity to be out there running!....or walking!!

COURSE

The course was not necessarily a scenic one, mainly running by some neighborhoods and down a few major streets, but they definitely had it very organized with probably the most police officers I have ever seen in a race!...and Cute ones at that!...talk about motivation to keep running!...at least to the next intersection!

HYDRATION STATIONS

The hydration stations were properly stocked with volunteers, however I would have liked to have seen the tables every mile, not every 1 ½-2 miles, being so hot and humid SFL. And also Gatorade at each one, instead of every other station. But again, this is a small local race, so the majority of runners are probably used to running in this heat. Also a few tables were set further away from the runners, on the grass or sidewalk, and volunteers would run back and forth from the table and bring it to us on the street. Not sure why they didn’t just put the tables on the street. (?) GU was also provided at least twice on course, which I was pleasantly surprised with so I stocked up for the next race, as I already had plenty for this one. (always say Yes to the free GU!)

SPECTATORS

There weren’t many spectators for this race. Most of the cheering came from the cops or volunteers, which was nice. Except 1 bike patrol and 1 officer that told us we shouldn’t be walking! Unbelievable. Don’t worry, I asked right back if they ever ran a half marathon before! And you know the answer to that one! ;)

FINISH LINE

The finish line was not much to speak of. There were bagels, bananas, oranges, water and Muscle Milk. No beer, which is not uncommon for it being a ‘health’ event, but we came prepared with our tail gate supplies! They did have a couple local food trucks, if you wanted to purchase some food, which was unique.

 

MEDAL

The 5kers got a pink lanyard and large medal, which my friends liked better than the half marathons. Our was literally the size of my thumb! I do like the design myself, but I wish it was a bit larger and had the pink lanyard as well for the cause. The 5kers also got a colored shirt and race bib which made it all seem like the 5k was more involved with the charity. I questioned this later and found out these used to be separate events and just recently joined forces, so that could have something to do with it.




Overall, I had a fun time with my Running Buddies. If you are in the area and looking for a small local race dedicated to a cause, check this one out.

HM#36

13.1-2:37

26.2 with Donna-National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer-Feb 23, 2014

This was the 7th Annual 26.2 with Donna National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer. This is the only national marathon where 100% proceeds benefit breast cancer research (via the Mayo Clinic) and community outreach (via Donna Foundation). I have been a Streaker (repeat runner since the Inaugural) and this is the race that closes out my racing year of doing a half marathon a month checking off the 50 states, as it is the only full marathon I participate.

The race weekend consists of a 5k and Family Fun Run on Saturday, as well as a half marathon, full marathon, and 5 person marathon relay on Sunday. If that is not enough for you, there is a 110 Ultra Challenge throughout the weekend.


GOAL
This was my 5th time attempting the full marathon under 5 hours. (my first marathon finish time in 2008 was 6:03). I taught myself to run with the 1x1 run walk aka Galloway method. Over the years, I have pulled away from it and tried to just run listening to my body. This year however, I decided to jump back on board the run/walk program but with a 3x1 method instead. My goal to achieve the 5hour finish was to remain under 11:27 minute miles. Knowing I crash hard near the 20 mile mark, I planned to push my time for the first 6-13 miles. From there, I would adjust accordingly decreasing both my run and walk times. I wore a Pace Bracelet so I could constantly easily check to make sure I was making time.


My mental goal was not only to keep all negativity out of my head, but to focus on the things I Love. This years motto for the race was 'Choosing Love over Fear' which I wore on my back bib. My life's motto ever since I visited Hawaii a few years ago has been 'Live Aloha' which I wrote on my wrist as a reminder. Both mentalities focusing on the positive things in life.  I would run the entire course saying out loud the things that I love, especially every time that a negative thought would cross my mind.

This year I had the most friends participating in the race than ever before....most doing the Relay, which made it seem like I had a huge and constant support system. I also had fellow employees manning a water station at M8/18. Neighbors and a couple friends were also scattered throughout the course cheering on the runners. I felt like I was constantly running to the next friend.

DAYS LEADING TO RACE DAY
The entire week before the race, I stocked up on beets and potatoes (baked and sweet). I stuck with clean eating and juicing until Friday when I participated in the VIP party and probably indulged in one too many glasses of wine, but it was fun to meet so many other Donna Ambassadors and it helped to ease the race weekend jitters. I decided to pass on the Pasta Party the night before the race. I felt like it was a little too late for me and needed to take the time to clear my mind alone. I hear, however, it was extra fancy this year and I missed out on a great time.

EXPO

The Expo is a 2 day event held at the Prime Osborne Convention Center and is one of the biggest, most spacious expos I have experienced yet. There are all kinds of vendors, not only running related, but health related as well, and it is open to the public. They also have some great speakers to get you pumped up and/or educated on running! They have a free photographer to take some fun pictures, and motivational sign boards for you to leave messages. (these will later be put out on the course at the Memory Miles on the beach). I took the day off of work and attended the Expo on Friday to make sure I was completely at ease and rested on Saturday. (as it is an hour drive roundtrip to get from the Beaches to Downtown) I ran into Liz who was doing part of the Relay and we took some fun free pictures together.

SHIRT

The shirt this year was made out of the new performance cotton that a lot of races are jumping on board with. I, myself, do not care for it. This year it seems they had a lot of feedback to do something different than pink, and went with a teal and white color for the shirt and bag. They also wanted to incorporate Jacksonville Downtown and not just the beaches. (since the Expo is downtown). I have to say, I am definitely disappointed in this decision. I mean, this is a breast cancer event, and should remain true to the cause's color and actual location of the race.

NIGHT BEFORE
I ate lasagna and actually had a pretty good night. I slept well and woke rested. The most I was nervous about was parking and making sure Constance arrived early enough for us to be early to Start. I wanted plenty of time at the Start so I wouldn't waste extra energy on being rushed.

START
Constance and I carpooled to Start located at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, only about 10 minutes away from my house. This was the 2nd year having the start location here, making the course an A-B (different finish line location, which is at the Mayo Clinic).  Last year the traffic was pretty bad, so we made sure to arrive extra early. We left shortly after 5am, had no issues what so ever and were one of the first ones to arrive, which meant first ones to the porta potties! YEA! ...a couple times! Race time was set for 730am.

It was a little cool out, so we sat in the Warm Up Tent (yes a tent with heaters in Florida!) with our layers, ate a little bit, and then walked around and took pictures. We then stood around some portable heaters, but were quickly told they were the corrals and we were in the wrong ones. Each person registers with a planned finish time. This coordinates with your bib color, which tells you which corral to go into. Each corral is barricaded and secured by people making sure you are in the right corral. Each corral is then escorted to the Start Line. This is the most secure I have ever seen the corrals.

Unfortunately Constances time was adjusted last minute and she was in a slower corral than me. I wanted to make sure I was in a faster corral since I had such a strong goal and I know the narrow beach streets can get crowded and its hard to pass the Galloway groups if you are behind them. Since we knew she ran faster than her corral assigned, we snuck her up to my corral....was not an easy task, but it had to be!

Once we were at the Start Line, there were a couple of speakers including Donna herself giving last minute words of wisdom. It was soon after, the gun was fired, pink confetti was flying, and we were off!


M1-6-I LOVE RACING WITH FRIENDS!
Miles 1-6 went super fast! Constance and I were feeling great and the course didn't seem as crowded as I remembered. Maybe because I was running faster this year? Or at least started further forward? I was so proud of Constance as this was her first 6 miler race! We passed my friends Toni and Allison cheering us on with signs. The crowd support was already in full force! We were so motivated and excited, our first mile was definitely way faster than we predicted or trained.  Lots of tables were set up with water and aid. Sometimes you couldn't even tell if it was an official race table, or if the neighborhood was just handing out supplies! I love that about this race! The entire community is part of this race, whether they are running or not.

We saw Constances parents at the Relay Exchange Zone. (which seemed to be a bit over crowded and chaotic, as we ran right past it, before people were yelling for her to turn back around!)


M6-9-I LOVE MY BEACH!
These were the miles on the sand of Jacksonville Beach, my beach where I live. Sarah exchanged the relay stick with Constance, I patted her on the back and asked her if she was ready. (this was her first Donna) To my surprise she continued to run with me for a bit before my pace picked up and adjusted to the hard packed sand. She had planned to walk this portion, but I later learned she was so motivated not just by me, but buy seeing everyone of different ages and sizes running all around her. She continued to run as far and as much as she could. So proud of her.

The beach miles are known as Memory Miles as the boards we signed at the Expo are lined on the sand with motivating words. The beach is so peaceful and serene during this time of morning, you almost forget you are in a race. The past 2 years this portion of the race has been brutal as we have had severe cold and windy weather. This year felt just right. It was overcast and upper 50s, lower 60s. I was still doing my 3x1 and was averaging about 7 minutes ahead of my predicted 5 hour finish time!


Exiting the beach was my work's water station. Fellow employees have been volunteering for this station for the past several years. And because of this, my employer provides a grant to the charity. I am so super proud of everyone stepping up every year!


M9-13-I LOVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORT!
Up next was the Atlantic Beach Town Center which is always the start to the biggest crowd support! This was also the next Relay Exchange Zone where I got to see and hug Wynton.

The time and money put into the decorations and support in this part of the beaches community is just jaw dropping! There are huge banners and balloon arches that cross over the street. Everyone is out in their driveways, like they are having tailgating parties. Food and drinks are passed out to the runners as well as popsicles and candy.


I had noticed about this time, I had yet to see an official Pacer with a Galloway group. Which was actually good, because they usually stress me out as I try to keep up with them, or try to run faster than the one behind, instead of just focusing on my own race.


I hit my half marathon time right on track and was still feeling good. I was still about 7 minutes faster than my goal.


M13-17-I LOVE SALTY CHIPS!
The next couple miles are a lot quieter as it goes through a neighborhood. This is where my inner self starts doubting my efforts, as there is still so many more miles to go, and pains start to become noticeable. But these thoughts were minimal this year. My body was actually feeling really good. To keep myself from having any negative thoughts, I pulled out my phone. This year the race used the Race Joy app where people can 'track' you on the course and also send you 'cheers' via text with specific sounds. It was really exciting and motivating to get all of those at this time!


I approached the next Relay Exchange, but unfortunately did not see Courtney. In fact, I was so in the zone, I forgot who I was supposed to be looking for. But that was ok, my work water station was up ahead again.


I had forgotten to pack salt packets. My muscles usually start to cramp sometime during the last 10 miles of the race and salt works wonders. I was taking a GU about every 3 miles starting at M6. The course provided at least 4 GU stations. I was absolutely shocked how much GU they were passing out! I also carried chocolate covered nuts, but never needed them. Running through the water station though, I saw bags of chips sitting out. I grabbed a handful and shoved it in my mouth. It was enough to get me through for now.

M18-23-I LOVE REFOUND CONFIDENCE!
Right after I ran through the water station, I saw a familiar back of a head. (yes, you know you are a runner when...lol) I yelled out Vicki's name and she turned around with the most surprised face I have seen! Vicki started before me, but her boyfriend was meeting her at multiple spots on the course, riding his scooter, and  he even brought her a change of shoes! It was because of this and her stop at a porta potty, that actually gave me the time to catch up to her. Vicki is a much stronger and faster runner than I am, so I was absolutely dumbfounded that I caught up to her! I was super excited and all I could say was 'you have to get me to the finish!' I knew that if I could stay with her, then she would be my 'hare', get me through the brick wall, and the difficult last 6 miles. After seeing her, I felt a sense of relief. I was confident I was going to reach my 5 hour goal! And I was still 7 minutes ahead of goal!


Vicki was hurting a little bit, so she tried to do my run/walk approach, but quickly learned my super long legs makes my walk pace almost her run pace. Either way, we ended up playing leap frog for a good while. Her boyfriend came out on the course right before M20 and told us how strong both of our forms still looked. He is an Elite runner himself, so to hear words like that from him was exactly what I needed to keep my confidence high!


We approached the Brick Wall at M20 (which stands over 6 feet tall on both sides of the course!) and I was still feeling good! I could feel myself at this point not focusing on anything but straight ahead. I had a clear head, not a single thought was going to get me off track. But then I heard my name called out by Constance and Liz. I realized the Brick Wall was also the Relay Exchange Zone where Liz was waiting. I was not expecting to see Constance out there though! I was super happy to see both of them!

Next up was the block that I live, but I was so overwhelmed by the excitement of the entire race and actually having a shot of making this unbelievable PR, that I almost went right by my neighbors without seeing them or the signs they made! Quick hugs were given and then I was off to tackle the final few miles!

I had let Vicki gain some space between us, but I could always see her ahead. I told myself as long as I can see her, I will still be able to make it.

About M21 I took my usual beer chug. I love this block as they are out there every year, and it seems this is always the spot where I slam a beer. Hey, they say its the best carbohydrate!!

I LOVE BEER!

At this point the clouds were rolling in and it was definitely getting dark in the distance....near the finish line.

M23-26-I LOVE THE RAIN!
These are the miles on JTB...aka, a highway, which has inclines and slants and of course a bridge over the intercoastal!

At this point it was sprinkling and before we even hit the bridge (the last mile) it was raining pretty hard. All I could do was Laugh Out Loud! I mean, I have run over 40 races and have not once ran in real rain....and I have been joking about it for a while, as there have been a couple of close calls. I thought it was great! That was until I heard thunder in the distance. It was a real far distance, so I still didn't think much of it. I was still happy and enjoying the run. I just kept saying its better than being hot or cold, and its better that its happening now at the end, than at the beginning!

Vicky and I continued to play leap frog, but I pulled away from her towards the end, even despite my increasingly slowing pace. I was able to make it up the bridge ok, but was barely running a full minute at a time at this point. I was still going to make it under 5 hours, so I allowed my mental self to take over my aching body and gave into the walking, even in the approach to the final stretch.
At that very moment, I felt a slap on the ass and saw Vicky taking off towards the finish! I grabbed her and said "Noooooo! You cant beat me now!!" lol. But it was Okay. I was happy and I was going to have my 5 hour finish time. No, I was going to have my BETTER THAN 5 hour finish time!!

FINISH-I LOVE DRY CLOTHES!
I crossed the line at 4:55 and let out a sob in the rain. At this point the rain was light enough for us to grab a couple pictures.

We were both freezing and sore so we headed straight to the massage tent as Vicki was cramping up. We thankfully were able to change into some dry clothes as we waited. The rain started coming own hard. I was supposed to meet Constance at the finish so I could drive her home, but her phone was not working. There was no way she was hanging out in the rain, right?!

Just as we were about to get on the empty massage tables, we were told the Finish Line Village was being evacuated because of the weather!

WHAT!? I never even imagined that that could have happened! They said the thunder was getting worse. Later I learned there was a tornado warning nearby. Thankfully I spotted Constance in the distance and we were able to get on the shuttle together. Luckily they had the foil blankets so we were able to stay dry and somewhat warm as we went to the shuttles.

We left the Finish Party without food or beer. It was so sad. We heard that the runners were being told the course was closed and they had to seek shelter. That was even more sad to hear. I couldn't imagine training for a full marathon and being told you couldn't finish. I don't think I could have handled that.

Yes, the shuttle back was a bit of a mess and I know a lot of people have been complaining about the cancelling of the race and the chaos of closing the Finish area and getting back to our cars. For those that were still coming across the Finish, they opened the Mayo Clinic and had a bit of food and blankets and I heard scrubs to change into.

Our bus driver and a couple others I guess were confused on the information to get back to Start. I would blame them if this was a regular finish, but it wasn't. I am sure there was mass confusion on what to do in this emergency situation. However, we thankfully were able to direct our driver down JTB and get us to our cars. Just as we were leaving, we saw Donna come to the Finish.

Yes, I was upset about not getting my celebration at the Finish, but I was still on cloud nine! I did it!

MEDAL-I LOVE SURPRISES!
The medal keeps the same theme every year, which I love. It is a stained glass medal with waves and dolphin and the pink ribbon. The lanyard is what changes every year.

The past few years, the race has also been doing something special for the Streakers. It has been a different lanyard the past couple years, but this year we got a sterling silver necklace charm. I think it is just perfect to commemorate such a huge accomplishment in my life!

(the blue lanyard was for the Relayers. I thought this pic was appropriate with the rain)

AFTER-I LOVE MY FRIENDS!
We were starving, and thankfully I have the best friend who not only made a slew of pasta and meats for us, but also snacks and a ton of booze....as well as clean dry socks....one thing I did not pack in my gear back.

It was great to sit around with friends and celebrate in a friends home and reminisce of what just took place.....I just had a 34 minute PR!! :)

It still seems unbelievable to me!

OVERALL
I did step up my training this year to include more back to back long distances as well as back to back races and increased my weekly mileage. I read somewhere, it didnt matter if you did just one long run a week, or your weekly mileage equaled that. That it is actually better for recovery to split it up. Either way, you had a 30 mile week or not.  So I went by that theory. I maintained my short distances in the week, but for my long distances, I would split them up at least 2 ways. (say on a 20 mile day, I would do 10 in the AM and 10 in the PM). And the recovery was really amazing.

Next year I want my marathon training to start a month earlier (October instead of November) and see if I can PR again keeping the same philosophy (I have PRd on this race every year!). I have been warned, now that I am below 5 hours, it will be very hard, but I am determined, even if it is only a couple minutes!

I also believe in living positive. Running truly tests your limits on positive thinking. I believe that saying out loud the things that I love during the entire race worked wonders! Even if it was the smallest thing (yes, I said i loved the pot hole cover! or i loved the seagull on the beach! or i loved the little kid giving me a high five) it all adds up. You think positive about one thing, it moves on to the next, and then your mind and body is only feeling positive energy. I have never felt so happy during a full marathon before!

I absolutely love this race! Yes, I may be a weeee bit biased because it is a home town race, but once again, 100% proceeds benefit breast cancer research and care! Who else can say that? But besides that, honestly, the support (race wise and neighborhood wise) is absolutely amazing! They are what makes this race. And I am proud to be part of this beach community!

I LOVE JACKSONVILLE BEACH!
I LOVE 26.2 WITH DONNA!