Wednesday, March 30, 2005
My Life Was Guarded
Finally!
The lifeguard was actually on-duty last night, and I was able to slip back into the pool to work on drowning that monster.
Things went pretty well. Don't be fooled. I won't be challenging Amanda Beard to a race any time soon. But I feel a little more confident about being able to complete a 1/2 mile swim.
My sister Tamieka was there with me, which made being in the pool a zillion times more fun than if I had gone by myself. We had the place entirely to ourselves. We even raced one length with our kickboards, giggling wildly and sputtering all at the same time.
Our best estimate is that the pool is 25 yards long. My goal last night was to swim 40 lengths=20 laps. With lots of resting, I was able to get through it all in about 30-35 minutes.
Encouraging, I thought.
However, I know race day will have a lot more obstacles for me to face - including colder water temps, lots of bodies with flailing arms and legs (mine included) and choppier water. For now, I'd like to work on eliminating the need to stop every lap or two.
And a big THANKS to Jank for the chin-to-shoulder trick. It was a ginormous help - although I still need to focus on getting my head all the way out of the water before inhaling. I think I just need to rotate my body a little more. Practice, practice, practice.
I also need to review my training schedule and get ready to kick it up a notch next week. I've also contacted a race director and offered to volunteer at a sprint distance tri in early July. Might as well help out and watch/learn all at the same time! (Sounds like a great tri for next year maybe...http://www.patgriskustri.com/).
In running news, I managed to get out for 7 miles on Sunday even with my tired post-race legs. It was slow going, and the four miles in the mud insured that I didn't push the pace at all. This afternoon is going to be gorgeous and I may even have the opportunity to bare my white legs to the world in shorts (I pity those who witness said legs). We'll have to wait and see what the rest of the week holds for me!
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The lifeguard was actually on-duty last night, and I was able to slip back into the pool to work on drowning that monster.
Things went pretty well. Don't be fooled. I won't be challenging Amanda Beard to a race any time soon. But I feel a little more confident about being able to complete a 1/2 mile swim.
My sister Tamieka was there with me, which made being in the pool a zillion times more fun than if I had gone by myself. We had the place entirely to ourselves. We even raced one length with our kickboards, giggling wildly and sputtering all at the same time.
Our best estimate is that the pool is 25 yards long. My goal last night was to swim 40 lengths=20 laps. With lots of resting, I was able to get through it all in about 30-35 minutes.
Encouraging, I thought.
However, I know race day will have a lot more obstacles for me to face - including colder water temps, lots of bodies with flailing arms and legs (mine included) and choppier water. For now, I'd like to work on eliminating the need to stop every lap or two.
And a big THANKS to Jank for the chin-to-shoulder trick. It was a ginormous help - although I still need to focus on getting my head all the way out of the water before inhaling. I think I just need to rotate my body a little more. Practice, practice, practice.
I also need to review my training schedule and get ready to kick it up a notch next week. I've also contacted a race director and offered to volunteer at a sprint distance tri in early July. Might as well help out and watch/learn all at the same time! (Sounds like a great tri for next year maybe...http://www.patgriskustri.com/).
In running news, I managed to get out for 7 miles on Sunday even with my tired post-race legs. It was slow going, and the four miles in the mud insured that I didn't push the pace at all. This afternoon is going to be gorgeous and I may even have the opportunity to bare my white legs to the world in shorts (I pity those who witness said legs). We'll have to wait and see what the rest of the week holds for me!
Monday, March 28, 2005
Willimantic Easter 5K Race Report
There were a few technicalities in this particular race.
The first technicality was the fact that the race was not actually held on Easter, but rather the day before, which just happened to be my birthday. In other words, the race was on Saturday not Sunday.
It was a little chilly in the morning, but by the time we were lining up for the race, the sun had warmed things up and I was able to shed my jacket, leaving me in my tights, long-sleeved shirt and orange hat.
As a matter of fact, I took off the jacket seconds before the GO! horn sounded, tossing it to Tamieka - my 'race crew' for the event - just as I was getting over the start line.
When will I learn to start closer to the front of the pack?! As usual, I got stuck behind some 8 year old boy that had that fast-slow pace that most kids have...you know the one - speed up, slow down, speed up, slow down. After I almost tripped over him twice, I worked my way around him and started passing people. I was trying hard to not lose too much energy by crowd-weaving but I needed to find my pace.
Right around .25 miles starts the ascent up The Hill. It was hard. It sucked. But I made it (and went back later to take pictures to share!). Crossed the First Mile marker at the top of the hill and heard "8:08" being called out. I muttered a "Crap!" to myself and heard a "That Hill!" in response from the man next to me. No other words needed to be exchanged - there was an unspoken hatred for The Hill and what it had managed to do to our first mile.
I was going a little slower than I wanted and I knew it would be hard to make up the time. I picked up the pace and came across Mile Two in 7:49 (15:57). Somewhere around this point, I noticed that one of the 'Grand Master' women passed me. I've used her as motivation before, trying to stick close to her, as her pace is usually just where I want to be. I made that my new objective - don't lose Sharon!
I focused on her yellow-green shirt and pushed hard. Tried to work on my form, but I was so tired that I found it difficult to remember to do all the right things. Breathing and not stopping were about all I could handle.
Passed by my step-sister-in-law right around Mile Three - and it was great to hear someone calling my name!
One of the guys behind me was coughing/gagging as we approached the final tenth of a mile. And all I could think was: 'Is he going to throw up? Did he just throw up?' This made ME want to throw up and all I could focus on was the sound of his cough-gag every 20 seconds or so. My stomach was flip-flopping like crazy.
Regardless, I was all set for the sprint to the finish - my favorite part - when the second technicality reared it's ugly head. The course had been changed this year to avoid having a steep downhill prior to the finish (which I LOVED last year). So when I turned the corner for what I thought was going to be a straight shot to the finish, I was confused to see the runners head up onto the sidewalk, instead of staying in the road...then I noticed that the orange cones went around the corner of the building.
Oh, OK - the finish is around the corner. Sprint, slow down to take the corner...no finish line...more cones around the next corner of the building....sprint again, slow down again to take the corner...and the finish line is all the way at the end of the parking lot.
'Jesus Christ!' I exclaimed. The guy right behind me responds with 'No kidding!'
I kick up what little I have left and cross the line in 23:47. No PR today. Except for the third technicality - new course automatically gives me a course PR right?
I stopped to catch my breath and try to keep my breakfast from surfacing (I was successful at keeping it down). I was dying of thirst, and since there was no water at the finish (my pet peeve by the way) Tamieka and I went inside to get some. We teamed up with some other runners and hauled some cases outside to hand out at the finish.
During the post-race feasting, one woman stopped me to let me know that she had kept her eyes glued to my orange hat. It was so nice to hear that I was motivating someone else. And a few people told me that they had been reading my blog!
We stuck around for the awards ceremony, although I wasn't even sure if I placed or not. I had no sense of how I did compared to the other females. For some reason, I thought it took me 24 or 25 minutes...so when third place was announced for my age division, and I wasn't called, I just assumed that I hadn't placed. But then the room got quiet and I realized the race director was staring at me, smiling, because he needed to call my name but always mispronounces it.
Wow. I placed second. Cool!
I wore my medal for the rest of the afternoon.
And then the race director called me later that night to tell me that I was actually FIRST in my division since he doesn't 'double dip' awards and the first woman in my division was the overall female and therefore not considered in the age group.
Even though there was no PR, I still think I had a good race on a tough course (seventh female, overall). And bottom line - it was a great way to spend my birthday (although the headache I had for the rest of the day was not my favorite part).
Hope the rest of the RBF enjoyed their weekend too!
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The first technicality was the fact that the race was not actually held on Easter, but rather the day before, which just happened to be my birthday. In other words, the race was on Saturday not Sunday.
It was a little chilly in the morning, but by the time we were lining up for the race, the sun had warmed things up and I was able to shed my jacket, leaving me in my tights, long-sleeved shirt and orange hat.
As a matter of fact, I took off the jacket seconds before the GO! horn sounded, tossing it to Tamieka - my 'race crew' for the event - just as I was getting over the start line.
When will I learn to start closer to the front of the pack?! As usual, I got stuck behind some 8 year old boy that had that fast-slow pace that most kids have...you know the one - speed up, slow down, speed up, slow down. After I almost tripped over him twice, I worked my way around him and started passing people. I was trying hard to not lose too much energy by crowd-weaving but I needed to find my pace.
Right around .25 miles starts the ascent up The Hill. It was hard. It sucked. But I made it (and went back later to take pictures to share!). Crossed the First Mile marker at the top of the hill and heard "8:08" being called out. I muttered a "Crap!" to myself and heard a "That Hill!" in response from the man next to me. No other words needed to be exchanged - there was an unspoken hatred for The Hill and what it had managed to do to our first mile.
I was going a little slower than I wanted and I knew it would be hard to make up the time. I picked up the pace and came across Mile Two in 7:49 (15:57). Somewhere around this point, I noticed that one of the 'Grand Master' women passed me. I've used her as motivation before, trying to stick close to her, as her pace is usually just where I want to be. I made that my new objective - don't lose Sharon!
I focused on her yellow-green shirt and pushed hard. Tried to work on my form, but I was so tired that I found it difficult to remember to do all the right things. Breathing and not stopping were about all I could handle.
Passed by my step-sister-in-law right around Mile Three - and it was great to hear someone calling my name!
One of the guys behind me was coughing/gagging as we approached the final tenth of a mile. And all I could think was: 'Is he going to throw up? Did he just throw up?' This made ME want to throw up and all I could focus on was the sound of his cough-gag every 20 seconds or so. My stomach was flip-flopping like crazy.
Regardless, I was all set for the sprint to the finish - my favorite part - when the second technicality reared it's ugly head. The course had been changed this year to avoid having a steep downhill prior to the finish (which I LOVED last year). So when I turned the corner for what I thought was going to be a straight shot to the finish, I was confused to see the runners head up onto the sidewalk, instead of staying in the road...then I noticed that the orange cones went around the corner of the building.
Oh, OK - the finish is around the corner. Sprint, slow down to take the corner...no finish line...more cones around the next corner of the building....sprint again, slow down again to take the corner...and the finish line is all the way at the end of the parking lot.
'Jesus Christ!' I exclaimed. The guy right behind me responds with 'No kidding!'
I kick up what little I have left and cross the line in 23:47. No PR today. Except for the third technicality - new course automatically gives me a course PR right?
I stopped to catch my breath and try to keep my breakfast from surfacing (I was successful at keeping it down). I was dying of thirst, and since there was no water at the finish (my pet peeve by the way) Tamieka and I went inside to get some. We teamed up with some other runners and hauled some cases outside to hand out at the finish.
During the post-race feasting, one woman stopped me to let me know that she had kept her eyes glued to my orange hat. It was so nice to hear that I was motivating someone else. And a few people told me that they had been reading my blog!
We stuck around for the awards ceremony, although I wasn't even sure if I placed or not. I had no sense of how I did compared to the other females. For some reason, I thought it took me 24 or 25 minutes...so when third place was announced for my age division, and I wasn't called, I just assumed that I hadn't placed. But then the room got quiet and I realized the race director was staring at me, smiling, because he needed to call my name but always mispronounces it.
Wow. I placed second. Cool!
I wore my medal for the rest of the afternoon.
And then the race director called me later that night to tell me that I was actually FIRST in my division since he doesn't 'double dip' awards and the first woman in my division was the overall female and therefore not considered in the age group.
Even though there was no PR, I still think I had a good race on a tough course (seventh female, overall). And bottom line - it was a great way to spend my birthday (although the headache I had for the rest of the day was not my favorite part).
Hope the rest of the RBF enjoyed their weekend too!
Friday, March 25, 2005
Silent Splashing
I re-arranged my normal training schedule this week to 1) allow time to taper for the 10-mile trail race and 2) get into the pool twice in one week.
The trail race was postponed, so I switched my race plans to a 5K. That was an easy adjustment.
I ran on Monday and Tuesday, and originally planned to run on the treadmill on Wednesday. My legs asked for a break - after the harder than usual effort - and I gave it to them, thinking that it would only benefit me in the pool on Thursday.
I went to the pool. I arrived at 6:05 p.m. to prevent the lifeguard from leaving.
I start to get changed and I hear a voice call out 'If you're here for swimming, there's no lifeguard again.'
Arrrghhhh.
When this happened on Tuesday, I was understanding. These things happen. SOMETIMES. This has now reached the annoying-ridiculous-what-the-hell-am-I-paying-for level. Today is a holiday for town offices, so there's no sense in calling to complain. But I will be 'suggesting' the to recreation director that there is a more reliable system for 1) getting substitute lifeguards and 2) letting swimmers know that the session has been canceled.
Sigh. No splashing, again.
I could have gone home, changed clothes (again) and gone to the gym but I was so grumpy, and had other things to do. I had arranged the whole evening around the pool times. Gggrrr.
Today, I'm going for a easy 3-4 mile run even though I usually rest the day before a 5K. I just have to get out there and move!
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The trail race was postponed, so I switched my race plans to a 5K. That was an easy adjustment.
I ran on Monday and Tuesday, and originally planned to run on the treadmill on Wednesday. My legs asked for a break - after the harder than usual effort - and I gave it to them, thinking that it would only benefit me in the pool on Thursday.
I went to the pool. I arrived at 6:05 p.m. to prevent the lifeguard from leaving.
I start to get changed and I hear a voice call out 'If you're here for swimming, there's no lifeguard again.'
Arrrghhhh.
When this happened on Tuesday, I was understanding. These things happen. SOMETIMES. This has now reached the annoying-ridiculous-what-the-hell-am-I-paying-for level. Today is a holiday for town offices, so there's no sense in calling to complain. But I will be 'suggesting' the to recreation director that there is a more reliable system for 1) getting substitute lifeguards and 2) letting swimmers know that the session has been canceled.
Sigh. No splashing, again.
I could have gone home, changed clothes (again) and gone to the gym but I was so grumpy, and had other things to do. I had arranged the whole evening around the pool times. Gggrrr.
Today, I'm going for a easy 3-4 mile run even though I usually rest the day before a 5K. I just have to get out there and move!
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Run-Swim Results
Clock struck 4 p.m. and I crammed myself into my running clothes, refusing to miss out on the 53F degree weather we were enjoying (especially knowing that snow is predicted for today).
Off I went, scaling back to a 3-miler so I would have some energy left for swimming later. Normally, I would have preferred to do 4 or 5 miles, but I was willing to make the sacrifice to insure some positive results in the pool later.
Ended up running at total 3.41 miles in 28:00 minutes. Average pace was 8:11/mile and felt comfortable and strong the whole time.
Back to the office, gathered up the various bags and jackets and out to the car. Zoomed home. Ran in, rallied the troop (hubby), changed into swimming stuff, grabbed the pre-packed swim bag and back out the door.
Got to the pool at 6:16 pm.
Enter the locker room, smile at the older ladies who are dressing after water aerobics. I hear one of them say "She left already."
I look up. The woman is talking to me. "Who left?" I ask. "The lifeguard. She waited until 6:15 and when no one showed up, she locked the doors and left. Our regular lifeguard is sick - she was a replacement." **Please note aforementioned arrival time.
I stand there. Stunned. No swimming? No chin-to-shoulder tucking? No reaching for the bottom of the pool? No kickboard? She couldn't wait an extra FIVE FREAKIN' MINUTES?
What the hell?
The Tuesday-Thursday lap swim runs from 6:15-7:30 p.m. In my opinion, that means that I can show up at 7:15 and swim for 15 minutes if I so choose. At the very, very least there should have been a sign somewhere letting folks know that the pool was closed. As it was, I had to yell into the men's locker room to tell hubby that we were going home. I guess you get what you paid for...and since this cost me $10 for 6 visits, I can't complain that much.
Sigh.
Still, I was so disappointed. I spent all day psyching myself up for swimming and now I was just deflated (pun!).
Treadmill run tonight. Swimming on Thursday. And I told the Water Aerobic Ladies that I would be there and to not let the lifeguard leave (it's a different lifeguard that night, I learned, so it should be OK).
Double session slated for next Tuesday.
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Off I went, scaling back to a 3-miler so I would have some energy left for swimming later. Normally, I would have preferred to do 4 or 5 miles, but I was willing to make the sacrifice to insure some positive results in the pool later.
Ended up running at total 3.41 miles in 28:00 minutes. Average pace was 8:11/mile and felt comfortable and strong the whole time.
Back to the office, gathered up the various bags and jackets and out to the car. Zoomed home. Ran in, rallied the troop (hubby), changed into swimming stuff, grabbed the pre-packed swim bag and back out the door.
Got to the pool at 6:16 pm.
Enter the locker room, smile at the older ladies who are dressing after water aerobics. I hear one of them say "She left already."
I look up. The woman is talking to me. "Who left?" I ask. "The lifeguard. She waited until 6:15 and when no one showed up, she locked the doors and left. Our regular lifeguard is sick - she was a replacement." **Please note aforementioned arrival time.
I stand there. Stunned. No swimming? No chin-to-shoulder tucking? No reaching for the bottom of the pool? No kickboard? She couldn't wait an extra FIVE FREAKIN' MINUTES?
What the hell?
The Tuesday-Thursday lap swim runs from 6:15-7:30 p.m. In my opinion, that means that I can show up at 7:15 and swim for 15 minutes if I so choose. At the very, very least there should have been a sign somewhere letting folks know that the pool was closed. As it was, I had to yell into the men's locker room to tell hubby that we were going home. I guess you get what you paid for...and since this cost me $10 for 6 visits, I can't complain that much.
Sigh.
Still, I was so disappointed. I spent all day psyching myself up for swimming and now I was just deflated (pun!).
Treadmill run tonight. Swimming on Thursday. And I told the Water Aerobic Ladies that I would be there and to not let the lifeguard leave (it's a different lifeguard that night, I learned, so it should be OK).
Double session slated for next Tuesday.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
The Streak Continues
Another great run yesterday. I was originally planning on the treadmill, but the weather cleared up and how could I NOT run outside? The sun even tried to peek out just a bit before dipping below the horizon.
This could be habit forming...
Mile 1: 8:23
Mile 2: 8:10
Mile 3: 8:40
Mile 4: 8:34
I am really just so surprised by my progress. I have a hunch that in addition to the changes I mentioned in yesterday's post, the weekly 10-milers are finally starting to pay off. It will be really interesting to see how I fare at the 5K on Saturday.
Speaking of which, when I suggested to my friend Kirstin that I should wear a birthday hat during the race, she thought I should try to pin (tape) donkey tails on runners as I passed them. I love this idea...although I can imagine that slapping strangers on the butt as I pass them might not be the best way to make friends.
In other news, here's a link to a few pictures taken at one of my last races from last season. I forgot all about them until my dad asked me to post some new pictures. I threw in a couple dog pictures too, just for fun.
I'm doubling up this afternoon, with a short run and then a trip to the pool. Wonder how that will all work out?! Tune in tomorrow, same Bat time, same Bat channel!
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This could be habit forming...
Mile 1: 8:23
Mile 2: 8:10
Mile 3: 8:40
Mile 4: 8:34
I am really just so surprised by my progress. I have a hunch that in addition to the changes I mentioned in yesterday's post, the weekly 10-milers are finally starting to pay off. It will be really interesting to see how I fare at the 5K on Saturday.
Speaking of which, when I suggested to my friend Kirstin that I should wear a birthday hat during the race, she thought I should try to pin (tape) donkey tails on runners as I passed them. I love this idea...although I can imagine that slapping strangers on the butt as I pass them might not be the best way to make friends.
In other news, here's a link to a few pictures taken at one of my last races from last season. I forgot all about them until my dad asked me to post some new pictures. I threw in a couple dog pictures too, just for fun.
I'm doubling up this afternoon, with a short run and then a trip to the pool. Wonder how that will all work out?! Tune in tomorrow, same Bat time, same Bat channel!
Monday, March 21, 2005
Out of Hibernation
Posted some great times in my last two runs of last week. Friday's 3.6 miler saw a sub-8 for the third mile...and the other two miles were right around 8:00-8:15. As if that wasn't shocking enough, Saturday I polished off 10-miles in 1:27:00, which is easily my fastest time on that route. And I didn't feel 'spent' by the effort. It's strange - I can tell that I am working harder, but it doesn't feel as hard as it should (If that makes any sense).
It's like the cobwebs of winter have been wiped away from my brain. My head feels clearer, my legs feels stronger, my lungs feel bigger. Like I just woke up from hibernating.
But what gives, what's changed? I suspect it is a combination of factors: 1) As suggested by David, the sunshine and spring-like weather has improved my mood, thus my energy level and attitude are feeling readjusted. 2) Less clothing layers=less sluggish. 3) Form, form, form.
I have never focused so much, so acutely, on my running form. Usually, I go out way too fast and then I slow down way too much, getting distracted by daydreams. Paying attention to my form has proven to have tremendous benefits, if my quicker times are any indication.
The simplest change for me has been focusing on my 'center' and running from my bellybutton, while keeping my butt 'tucked in.' Instantly, I can feel the power kick in. It's amazing. But it's also a lot of work, holding that form mile after mile. During my 10-miler, I found that after 4-5 miles, I started to get sloppy again. I allowed myself a few miles to drift back into my old habits, but then tightening things up again for the final push home. I figure that it took years to 'learn' to run the way I do now, therefore, it may take some time to 're-learn' a new way to run.
Got 3-4 miles on the schedule tonight, and I'm hoping to take it easy this week. Got that Merrimack River 10-Mile Trail Racecoming up on Saturday...grooaannn...this just in: "The Merrimack River Trail Race has been postponed until April 16."
Boooooo. At least I have a back-up plan. There's a 5K being held 10 minutes from my house...I could run there as a warmup if I really wanted to...I guess that will have to do. I am determined to celebrate my birthday by running with lots of other people!
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It's like the cobwebs of winter have been wiped away from my brain. My head feels clearer, my legs feels stronger, my lungs feel bigger. Like I just woke up from hibernating.
But what gives, what's changed? I suspect it is a combination of factors: 1) As suggested by David, the sunshine and spring-like weather has improved my mood, thus my energy level and attitude are feeling readjusted. 2) Less clothing layers=less sluggish. 3) Form, form, form.
I have never focused so much, so acutely, on my running form. Usually, I go out way too fast and then I slow down way too much, getting distracted by daydreams. Paying attention to my form has proven to have tremendous benefits, if my quicker times are any indication.
The simplest change for me has been focusing on my 'center' and running from my bellybutton, while keeping my butt 'tucked in.' Instantly, I can feel the power kick in. It's amazing. But it's also a lot of work, holding that form mile after mile. During my 10-miler, I found that after 4-5 miles, I started to get sloppy again. I allowed myself a few miles to drift back into my old habits, but then tightening things up again for the final push home. I figure that it took years to 'learn' to run the way I do now, therefore, it may take some time to 're-learn' a new way to run.
Got 3-4 miles on the schedule tonight, and I'm hoping to take it easy this week. Got that Merrimack River 10-Mile Trail Race
Boooooo. At least I have a back-up plan. There's a 5K being held 10 minutes from my house...I could run there as a warmup if I really wanted to...I guess that will have to do. I am determined to celebrate my birthday by running with lots of other people!
Friday, March 18, 2005
Drowning The Monster
One of the biggest reasons I was attracted to the sport of running was because of it's simplicity. One foot in front of the other, breathe in, breathe out. Uncomplicated. Not scary at all.
Prior to running, I had tried a few other activities, with mixed results:
Softball - When I was 12, I played on a summer rec team, and it was fun. But the next year, I had to move up to the 'junior' league and I was absolutely knees-knocking terrified. I had to lead off the bag, steal bases and slide. Whoa. Way too many chances to fail and disappoint the team. Cross this sport off the 'fun' list.
Weight lifting - I first hit the gym when I was 18 and still in high school. I was a little self-conscious to begin with, worried about how stupid I looked. But once I learned my way around the equipment, it was an enjoyable experience. There was no one to answer to but myself - I was in total control. I liked that.
Soccer - When I was 27, I was coaxed onto a co-ed intramural team with the promise that I wouldn't have to do much. At the very least, I just had to run up and down the field and try to keep the ball away from the other players. I was nervous about playing, but it was manageable since not much was expected from me - I was just a warm body on the field. I put in my time and called it a season.
Marathoning - Once I got comfortable with my running, I decided to push for the next level, which was to run a marathon. I took this journey last year, loved it and will be doing it again this year. Even though I was convinced I would fail horribly, or die trying, I still did it and ended up meeting my goals.
Mountain biking - I also decided to try biking last year. I was shaking in my sneakers at the thought of zooming down hills with rocks and dirt and trees. But for some reason, the terror was exhilarating and I managed to have a really great time crashing around in the woods. I'm still apprehensive when I'm out there, but the more I do it, the better it gets.
Generally, fear is the prevailing emotion when I try a new sport/activity, which I have learned to accept. This year's challenge is to do a triathlon in July, with Annalisa. That means I will have to be able to swim a half a mile. However, I'm not really a strong swimmer. Actually, swimming is a complex, oxygen-lacking monster to me. This is easily the scariest athletic hurdle I've ever placed in front of myself.
Last night, it was time to face the monster. I got into a pool and attempted to do whatsome none would label 'swimming.' I did a few laps with a kickboard. I tested to see if I could still manage some type of crawl. My husband was there with me, coaching me, encouraging me and making me smile. (He cannot truly fathom how much it meant to me that he was there!)
He was surprised to see the look of defeat on my face, which was not a misinterpretation on his part. I was really defeated, thinking to myself 'How am I ever going to pull this off!?' It was so much harder than I imagined...I had dreams of getting in the pool, and effortlessly pulling through the water, gliding along like a natural. Instead, I flailed, flopped and flubbed my way up and down the lane, sputtering and choking along the way. There is a very long road ahead of me in the world of swimming.
My best effort last night got me six lengths of the pool doing the crawl. The breast stroke was much easier but it would take weeks to swim a half mile like that. Overall, I spent about 30 minutes swimming, doing whatever I could to keep moving up and down the lane (which we think is 25 meters, but we have no idea).
To put it all in perspective, I had to remind myself that when I started running, I started on the treadmill and I did a walk/run routine until I could run more than I walked. Obviously, it will be the same way with swimming. I need to work on lung capacity and form. I need to keep my head down and go slow (going slow is so hard to accept!). Practice, practice, practice.
A marathon seems easy compared to this new monster. But, I'm battling the monster, trying to shove him out in the deep end with rocks tied to his waist. Wish me luck!
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Prior to running, I had tried a few other activities, with mixed results:
Softball - When I was 12, I played on a summer rec team, and it was fun. But the next year, I had to move up to the 'junior' league and I was absolutely knees-knocking terrified. I had to lead off the bag, steal bases and slide. Whoa. Way too many chances to fail and disappoint the team. Cross this sport off the 'fun' list.
Weight lifting - I first hit the gym when I was 18 and still in high school. I was a little self-conscious to begin with, worried about how stupid I looked. But once I learned my way around the equipment, it was an enjoyable experience. There was no one to answer to but myself - I was in total control. I liked that.
Soccer - When I was 27, I was coaxed onto a co-ed intramural team with the promise that I wouldn't have to do much. At the very least, I just had to run up and down the field and try to keep the ball away from the other players. I was nervous about playing, but it was manageable since not much was expected from me - I was just a warm body on the field. I put in my time and called it a season.
Marathoning - Once I got comfortable with my running, I decided to push for the next level, which was to run a marathon. I took this journey last year, loved it and will be doing it again this year. Even though I was convinced I would fail horribly, or die trying, I still did it and ended up meeting my goals.
Mountain biking - I also decided to try biking last year. I was shaking in my sneakers at the thought of zooming down hills with rocks and dirt and trees. But for some reason, the terror was exhilarating and I managed to have a really great time crashing around in the woods. I'm still apprehensive when I'm out there, but the more I do it, the better it gets.
Generally, fear is the prevailing emotion when I try a new sport/activity, which I have learned to accept. This year's challenge is to do a triathlon in July, with Annalisa. That means I will have to be able to swim a half a mile. However, I'm not really a strong swimmer. Actually, swimming is a complex, oxygen-lacking monster to me. This is easily the scariest athletic hurdle I've ever placed in front of myself.
Last night, it was time to face the monster. I got into a pool and attempted to do what
He was surprised to see the look of defeat on my face, which was not a misinterpretation on his part. I was really defeated, thinking to myself 'How am I ever going to pull this off!?' It was so much harder than I imagined...I had dreams of getting in the pool, and effortlessly pulling through the water, gliding along like a natural. Instead, I flailed, flopped and flubbed my way up and down the lane, sputtering and choking along the way. There is a very long road ahead of me in the world of swimming.
My best effort last night got me six lengths of the pool doing the crawl. The breast stroke was much easier but it would take weeks to swim a half mile like that. Overall, I spent about 30 minutes swimming, doing whatever I could to keep moving up and down the lane (which we think is 25 meters, but we have no idea).
To put it all in perspective, I had to remind myself that when I started running, I started on the treadmill and I did a walk/run routine until I could run more than I walked. Obviously, it will be the same way with swimming. I need to work on lung capacity and form. I need to keep my head down and go slow (going slow is so hard to accept!). Practice, practice, practice.
A marathon seems easy compared to this new monster. But, I'm battling the monster, trying to shove him out in the deep end with rocks tied to his waist. Wish me luck!
Thursday, March 17, 2005
Another Fabulous Five Miler
Yesterday's run was one of those runs that sneaks up and surprises you.
I had some car issues (yes, again) to deal with and had to leave work early to pick up said money pit. Somehow, I had managed to lose my banana during my travels -- I think it fell out of my bag when I climbed out of the car dealership's shuttle van.
Losing my banana meant that I would have to go home and eat before I could go running. I was torn between going to the gym, for treadmill and weights, or running outside. Since I had to go home to eat, and the sun was shining, it just made sense to hit the roads.
I was a little apprehensive about the impending run. I wasn't sure about the weather - was it cold? Windy? I couldn't tell. Plus, my sugar/food level wasn't feeling 100% and that made me worry about crashing in the middle of the run. I ate half a banana while getting geared up, hoping to stave off any crashes.
I went out the door with my usual promise to myself on days like this - 'Get to the 1.5 mile mark and see how you feel.'
Fred beeped at me ALOT and the beeps were 'beep-beep' which meant I was going faster than 8:30 min/miles. I tried not to spend too much time analyzing my pace - I just powered forward, glad to have the sunshine on my face with the promise of spring in the air.
I did focus on my form, trying to incorporate a few of the Chi Running principles. I focused on my legs and bending at the knee while working on leg turnover. I worked hard to run with my 'center' - which I found to be an awesome experience. I tucked in my butt and ran as if I was being pulled along by my belly button. I really think it made a difference, as my stride felt stronger and I was definitely running faster (according to Fred, who kept chirping away at me!). Admittedly, I haven't read the entire book, which I should probably do before I experiment much more.
I did have some sugar-level fluctuations, which I alleviated by eating some fruit snacks. Normally I would have tried to run through my 'sugar issue' for such a short run, but I did not want to slow down. It just felt so damn good to be working that hard! And I was amazed that my knee didn't give me any trouble at all.
When I got home and looked at Fred's notes, I was just amazed. I ran the 5 miles in 41 minutes, and never went slower than 8:18 per mile. I haven't had a 'strong' run in so long, and this just made my day.
I was still smiling about it when I woke up today!
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I had some car issues (yes, again) to deal with and had to leave work early to pick up said money pit. Somehow, I had managed to lose my banana during my travels -- I think it fell out of my bag when I climbed out of the car dealership's shuttle van.
Losing my banana meant that I would have to go home and eat before I could go running. I was torn between going to the gym, for treadmill and weights, or running outside. Since I had to go home to eat, and the sun was shining, it just made sense to hit the roads.
I was a little apprehensive about the impending run. I wasn't sure about the weather - was it cold? Windy? I couldn't tell. Plus, my sugar/food level wasn't feeling 100% and that made me worry about crashing in the middle of the run. I ate half a banana while getting geared up, hoping to stave off any crashes.
I went out the door with my usual promise to myself on days like this - 'Get to the 1.5 mile mark and see how you feel.'
Fred beeped at me ALOT and the beeps were 'beep-beep' which meant I was going faster than 8:30 min/miles. I tried not to spend too much time analyzing my pace - I just powered forward, glad to have the sunshine on my face with the promise of spring in the air.
I did focus on my form, trying to incorporate a few of the Chi Running principles. I focused on my legs and bending at the knee while working on leg turnover. I worked hard to run with my 'center' - which I found to be an awesome experience. I tucked in my butt and ran as if I was being pulled along by my belly button. I really think it made a difference, as my stride felt stronger and I was definitely running faster (according to Fred, who kept chirping away at me!). Admittedly, I haven't read the entire book, which I should probably do before I experiment much more.
I did have some sugar-level fluctuations, which I alleviated by eating some fruit snacks. Normally I would have tried to run through my 'sugar issue' for such a short run, but I did not want to slow down. It just felt so damn good to be working that hard! And I was amazed that my knee didn't give me any trouble at all.
When I got home and looked at Fred's notes, I was just amazed. I ran the 5 miles in 41 minutes, and never went slower than 8:18 per mile. I haven't had a 'strong' run in so long, and this just made my day.
I was still smiling about it when I woke up today!
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
More Than Three Makes A Collection
It's official. I now have a collection of orange hats.
I had my two originals - the orange Gap hat seen in the picture (look left) and an orange 'life is good' visor for hotter days.
Then I bought myself an orange 'Hartford Marathon' hat, since I earned it, dammit.
Next, my parents bought me an Old Navy hat for Christmas followed by a hat from Puerta Vallarta (one stop on their Mexican Riveria cruise).
And the latest addition arrived this past weekend, when my friend Steve brought me back a hat from his trip to California.
I've heard that more than three items of a particular thing makes a 'collection.' So it would appear that I now have a collection of orange baseball hats - all different shades of orange to suit my mood. Looks like I can never be 'Running Chick with the Blue Hat' now...just doesn't have the same ring to it, does it?
Two-thirds of the Running Chicks got together for a quick 3 miles last night! Woo hoo...this MUST be a sign of spring, right?!
In other news, there was an interesting article in today's New York Times about Dean Karnazes (ultra runner). I especially liked this part:
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I had my two originals - the orange Gap hat seen in the picture (look left) and an orange 'life is good' visor for hotter days.
Then I bought myself an orange 'Hartford Marathon' hat, since I earned it, dammit.
Next, my parents bought me an Old Navy hat for Christmas followed by a hat from Puerta Vallarta (one stop on their Mexican Riveria cruise).
And the latest addition arrived this past weekend, when my friend Steve brought me back a hat from his trip to California.
I've heard that more than three items of a particular thing makes a 'collection.' So it would appear that I now have a collection of orange baseball hats - all different shades of orange to suit my mood. Looks like I can never be 'Running Chick with the Blue Hat' now...just doesn't have the same ring to it, does it?
Two-thirds of the Running Chicks got together for a quick 3 miles last night! Woo hoo...this MUST be a sign of spring, right?!
In other news, there was an interesting article in today's New York Times about Dean Karnazes (ultra runner). I especially liked this part:
"Ultramarathons are not completed, he [Dean] writes, simply by being in shape to do them or being obsessive enough to train for them, but rather by digging deeply into one's heart and tapping the reservoirs of will and determination that he thinks exist in all of us." (emphasis added)Good stuff, that.
Monday, March 14, 2005
Snow Running, Part Deux
Pop quiz: What happens when there's snow on the ground and the sun comes out, making temps rise above freezing?
Answer: A snow-run becomes a slush-run which results in much slippage and soggy socks.
When I set out for my 8-miles on Sunday, I wasn't sure what to expect. I was determined to run out in the woods, even if it meant running in the freshly fallen snow. I had hiked part of the trail on Saturday and it didn't seem bad at all. I was optimistic for a strong run and I was tired/bored of running on either the treadmill or pavement.
I ran about .25 miles from my house to trail head and stopped to put on my YakTrax. As I popped onto the trail, which starts with a steep, quick downhill, I was dismayed to find only one thin path cut in the snow. It looked like a dirtbike had been through there recently, and it certainly didn't give me a wide enough path to run on.
I struggled to stay upright and move forward for the next half a mile. I was cussing; one of my Yaktrax was slipping up and over my toes; snow was getting into my sneakers; and my ankles were straining, just trying to keep my self from falling. Felt like my tires were spinning all over the road, so to speak.
Never have I been more grateful to see ATV and snowmobile tracks! The trail I was on joined up with the rail trail where it became obvious that many motorized vehicles had recently passed by. Normally, I would curse and shake my fist at the ATV tracks, since they turn the packed dirt into rough, rocky sand. But at that moment, I breathed a sigh of relief as I could run with a little more freedom.
I trudged along at a very slow pace (for me) - It was hard work but I kept reminding myself that it was the kind of workout that would make me a stronger runner (as long as I didn't have a heart attack before I finished). Plus, it was a beautiful day - sun was shining and temps warmed up to the 40s F (like 3-4C, I think).
The last half mile on the trail was a total pain in the a** and I ended up taking off the Yaktrax and 'running' slower than I walk. Hitting the final .25 miles on the road was like a dream...felt like I could run faster than the wind.
Something went a little haywire with Fred (The Nike gadget. That's his name. I like the alliteration I get when I say 'F-ing Fred' or some similar F-bomb/Fred combo.). I think I hit stop and then forgot to hit start again when I took off the YakTrax, so I don't have accurate time/distance information. But it was close to 8 miles and it was at about 80 minutes.
Now, let's hope that's the last snow run for the season...I'm not sure I can handle a third one!
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Answer: A snow-run becomes a slush-run which results in much slippage and soggy socks.
When I set out for my 8-miles on Sunday, I wasn't sure what to expect. I was determined to run out in the woods, even if it meant running in the freshly fallen snow. I had hiked part of the trail on Saturday and it didn't seem bad at all. I was optimistic for a strong run and I was tired/bored of running on either the treadmill or pavement.
I ran about .25 miles from my house to trail head and stopped to put on my YakTrax. As I popped onto the trail, which starts with a steep, quick downhill, I was dismayed to find only one thin path cut in the snow. It looked like a dirtbike had been through there recently, and it certainly didn't give me a wide enough path to run on.
I struggled to stay upright and move forward for the next half a mile. I was cussing; one of my Yaktrax was slipping up and over my toes; snow was getting into my sneakers; and my ankles were straining, just trying to keep my self from falling. Felt like my tires were spinning all over the road, so to speak.
Never have I been more grateful to see ATV and snowmobile tracks! The trail I was on joined up with the rail trail where it became obvious that many motorized vehicles had recently passed by. Normally, I would curse and shake my fist at the ATV tracks, since they turn the packed dirt into rough, rocky sand. But at that moment, I breathed a sigh of relief as I could run with a little more freedom.
I trudged along at a very slow pace (for me) - It was hard work but I kept reminding myself that it was the kind of workout that would make me a stronger runner (as long as I didn't have a heart attack before I finished). Plus, it was a beautiful day - sun was shining and temps warmed up to the 40s F (like 3-4C, I think).
The last half mile on the trail was a total pain in the a** and I ended up taking off the Yaktrax and 'running' slower than I walk. Hitting the final .25 miles on the road was like a dream...felt like I could run faster than the wind.
Something went a little haywire with Fred (The Nike gadget. That's his name. I like the alliteration I get when I say 'F-ing Fred' or some similar F-bomb/Fred combo.). I think I hit stop and then forgot to hit start again when I took off the YakTrax, so I don't have accurate time/distance information. But it was close to 8 miles and it was at about 80 minutes.
Now, let's hope that's the last snow run for the season...I'm not sure I can handle a third one!
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
All Caught Up
Finally made it through 110 posts. Phew! I hate when I get that back-logged with my reading. And even worse, I hate getting that backlogged because that means less commenting. I'm reading your blogs, I swear! You've been running races, training hard, recovering from colds, bronchitis and other injuries! You've had snakes escape and helped friends out at their races.
My recovery continues, and with each day I feel more energetic and clear-headed and less sneezy and wheezy.
Monday night was 3.50 miles on the Dreadmill after being motionless for an entire week. I was a little nervous about how it would feel to use my lungs again, and I was pleasantly surprised.
I started out walking for .25 miles, then picked up the pace and stayed between a 9:00-10:00 min/miles pace for 3.0 miles (at a 1.0 incline). Cooled down for .25 miles. I had to walk once in the middle of the running, to catch my breath. I focused on my form as much as possible, trying to remember and incorporate some of the Chi Running techniques I read about.
I have to admit, it was one of the 'faster' treadmill runs I've experienced. And by faster, I mean 'not so boring that I want to pluck out my eyelashes one by one in order to pass the time' faster. I'd still rather be outside, but since Mother Nature has decided that THIS winter will be The Winter That Never Ends, I've had to make other arrangements.
Last night was 30 minutes on the recumbent bike. Tonight, it's back to the gym for more Dreadmill running. And maybe some quick upper body.
Last but not least, today I will be mailing in my first race-registration for this 'season' - April Fools 5K on April 3. (No, I still haven't registered for the 10-mile trail race DAMMIT). Here we go again!
Thus ends the lamest post ever.
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My recovery continues, and with each day I feel more energetic and clear-headed and less sneezy and wheezy.
Monday night was 3.50 miles on the Dreadmill after being motionless for an entire week. I was a little nervous about how it would feel to use my lungs again, and I was pleasantly surprised.
I started out walking for .25 miles, then picked up the pace and stayed between a 9:00-10:00 min/miles pace for 3.0 miles (at a 1.0 incline). Cooled down for .25 miles. I had to walk once in the middle of the running, to catch my breath. I focused on my form as much as possible, trying to remember and incorporate some of the Chi Running techniques I read about.
I have to admit, it was one of the 'faster' treadmill runs I've experienced. And by faster, I mean 'not so boring that I want to pluck out my eyelashes one by one in order to pass the time' faster. I'd still rather be outside, but since Mother Nature has decided that THIS winter will be The Winter That Never Ends, I've had to make other arrangements.
Last night was 30 minutes on the recumbent bike. Tonight, it's back to the gym for more Dreadmill running. And maybe some quick upper body.
Last but not least, today I will be mailing in my first race-registration for this 'season' - April Fools 5K on April 3. (No, I still haven't registered for the 10-mile trail race DAMMIT). Here we go again!
Thus ends the lamest post ever.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Quick Update
I am on the mend and intend to make a full recovery! The orange hat will live to see another run!
After a weekend of being mostly motionless, I am starting to feel more human.
Thanks to all of you for your well-wishes and sympathy/empathy. I could tell that I was really sick this time around, since I really didn't want to run at all. I just couldn't fathom expending that kind of energy and expanding my lungs to draw in deep breaths was just too daunting a task.
I'm hoping to take it nice and slow on the treadmill tonight. Steady, relaxed pace, flat incline, warm air for the lungs. If it feels like too much, I'll stop.
In the meantime, I have about 80 posts to read...you've all been busy!
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After a weekend of being mostly motionless, I am starting to feel more human.
Thanks to all of you for your well-wishes and sympathy/empathy. I could tell that I was really sick this time around, since I really didn't want to run at all. I just couldn't fathom expending that kind of energy and expanding my lungs to draw in deep breaths was just too daunting a task.
I'm hoping to take it nice and slow on the treadmill tonight. Steady, relaxed pace, flat incline, warm air for the lungs. If it feels like too much, I'll stop.
In the meantime, I have about 80 posts to read...you've all been busy!
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Baby Elephant
I should have seen it coming.
Sunday's 'quick' three-miler wasn't great. I was feeling a little tired and tight in the chest. I figured it was from staying up too late, drinking beer and running in the cold.
Apparently not.
There seems to be a baby elephant parked on top of my lungs.
I was hoping that this would only last a few days. It's been four days, with no running or exercise of any kind, and it's getting worse instead of better. I can actually feel stuff rattling around in my lungs when I breathe in. Sore throat. Cough. Low-grade fever. And now the sneezing has started. Sound familiar? Haven't like 90% of you already had this plague?
Well. It looks like it's my turn. Fabulous! I am so excited about this! (But, I'd rather go through this now than at the end of the month, when I want to run that 10-mile trail run -- that I STILL haven't received any registration information for!)
No running till I can draw in a deep breath without coughing. Wish me luck.
grumble. grumble. grumble.
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Sunday's 'quick' three-miler wasn't great. I was feeling a little tired and tight in the chest. I figured it was from staying up too late, drinking beer and running in the cold.
Apparently not.
There seems to be a baby elephant parked on top of my lungs.
I was hoping that this would only last a few days. It's been four days, with no running or exercise of any kind, and it's getting worse instead of better. I can actually feel stuff rattling around in my lungs when I breathe in. Sore throat. Cough. Low-grade fever. And now the sneezing has started. Sound familiar? Haven't like 90% of you already had this plague?
Well. It looks like it's my turn. Fabulous! I am so excited about this! (But, I'd rather go through this now than at the end of the month, when I want to run that 10-mile trail run -- that I STILL haven't received any registration information for!)
No running till I can draw in a deep breath without coughing. Wish me luck.
grumble. grumble. grumble.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Racing Ahead
Time to look ahead at the bursting potential of spring and summer and set up my race schedule.
This year, I want things to be different. Last year was my first 'full' racing season, starting in March and finishing in December, with at least one race each month. I did quite a few 5Ks, two 5-milers, one 20K and the marathon
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I have a love/hate relationship with racing, and I think I can elicit some head nods with my explanation.
Love:
Race day magic
Race day butterflies
Race day FRIENDS!
Race day food
Race day doggie-friends (I always look for a dog to cuddle with on race day - for both the calming effect and the 'good luck')
Not to mention the wonderful sense of community that pervades on race day. LOVE that.
Hate:
Having to pee four times within a 20-minute time span
The 'oh-my-god-I-can't-believe-I-am-doing-this-voluntarily-to-my-body' feeling, distinctly noticeable during the final mile (this feeling is usually followed by the following rant: Why do I keep doing this to myself? WHY!? This is stupid. There's no reason to race. No more races. Ever. This is it. Dumb races. I hate racing. STUPID!)
In an effort to find more of the LOVE and feel less of the HATE, my plan for this year is to do some new courses, new distances, and even some new events. There are a couple of races that I am sentimental about, so I'll keep them on the schedule. But I want to mix things up just a bit.
Here's the tentative schedule. Prices and participation may vary.
March
Merrimack River Trail 10-miler (Andover MA)
*Looking forward to this mud-fest, if I can get someone to send me registration information!
April
East Haddam Lions Club 5K (East Haddam CT)
Nipmuck 16 Mile Trail Race (Union CT) - Tentative
May
Bluff Point Twilight Trail Run 7.4M (Groton CT)
The Washington Trail 10K Road Race (Durham CT)
June
Iron Horse Half Marathon (Simsbury CT)
Or maybe something in San Diego, since I'll be there for at least a week sometime in June.
July
Boom Box Mile (Willimantic CT)
*Gotta beat last year's time!
Danskin Triathalon - w/Annalisa! (Webster MA)
*Eeeeekkk. You read that right. I need to learn how to swim! I imagine the 'stupid' rant will be heard between my ears at this particular event.
August
Deary Memorial 5 Mile Road Race (Putnam CT)
*this was my first race ever, so this year will be the third time I'll be running it.
September
New Haven 20K (New Haven CT)
*I love, love, love everything about this race! There's a 5K offered too.
October
UTC-Hartford Marathon (Hartford CT)
*This will be my second marathon, and I really want to run this same course, so I can compare my times.
Time to set YOUR goals, plans, races, etc for the spring! Don't forget to share!
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This year, I want things to be different. Last year was my first 'full' racing season, starting in March and finishing in December, with at least one race each month. I did quite a few 5Ks, two 5-milers, one 20K and the marathon
.I have a love/hate relationship with racing, and I think I can elicit some head nods with my explanation.
Love:
Race day magic
Race day butterflies
Race day FRIENDS!
Race day food
Race day doggie-friends (I always look for a dog to cuddle with on race day - for both the calming effect and the 'good luck')
Not to mention the wonderful sense of community that pervades on race day. LOVE that.
Hate:
Having to pee four times within a 20-minute time span
The 'oh-my-god-I-can't-believe-I-am-doing-this-voluntarily-to-my-body' feeling, distinctly noticeable during the final mile (this feeling is usually followed by the following rant: Why do I keep doing this to myself? WHY!? This is stupid. There's no reason to race. No more races. Ever. This is it. Dumb races. I hate racing. STUPID!)
In an effort to find more of the LOVE and feel less of the HATE, my plan for this year is to do some new courses, new distances, and even some new events. There are a couple of races that I am sentimental about, so I'll keep them on the schedule. But I want to mix things up just a bit.
Here's the tentative schedule. Prices and participation may vary.
March
Merrimack River Trail 10-miler (Andover MA)
*Looking forward to this mud-fest, if I can get someone to send me registration information!
April
East Haddam Lions Club 5K (East Haddam CT)
Nipmuck 16 Mile Trail Race (Union CT) - Tentative
May
Bluff Point Twilight Trail Run 7.4M (Groton CT)
The Washington Trail 10K Road Race (Durham CT)
June
Iron Horse Half Marathon (Simsbury CT)
Or maybe something in San Diego, since I'll be there for at least a week sometime in June.
July
Boom Box Mile (Willimantic CT)
*Gotta beat last year's time!
Danskin Triathalon - w/Annalisa! (Webster MA)
*Eeeeekkk. You read that right. I need to learn how to swim! I imagine the 'stupid' rant will be heard between my ears at this particular event.
August
Deary Memorial 5 Mile Road Race (Putnam CT)
*this was my first race ever, so this year will be the third time I'll be running it.
September
New Haven 20K (New Haven CT)
*I love, love, love everything about this race! There's a 5K offered too.
October
UTC-Hartford Marathon (Hartford CT)
*This will be my second marathon, and I really want to run this same course, so I can compare my times.
Time to set YOUR goals, plans, races, etc for the spring! Don't forget to share!
