Recovery...Done...Time to run!!!

I am still buzzing from consuming massive amounts of coffee and ingesting loads of chocolate covered coffee beans. I barely survived. Made some stupid mistakes and was completely lost at times. I left feeling very thankful that they grade on a curve. But that midterm is finally done! Had I opted not to torture myself in an elective of microeconomics, the last few days would have been more peaceful. Had I dedicated as much time to studying as I did running, it would have been easier. But in the midst of marathon training, that wasn't an option!

The marathon was almost three weeks ago and I have only run twice since then. I have been completely exhausted and the slowest runs seem to take incredible effort. I had intended to hit the gym hard with cross training and to take out my bike for some nice fall riding. I mean, I did join the NYU cycling team and have yet to make it to one of the workouts. But, alas, the exhaustion has taken over. So, I have enjoyed sleeping in and not feeling the need to wake up before 5am. Don't get me wrong, I managed to get in some spin, a little yoga, and a bit of time on the elliptical. But more importantly, I have allowed my body to repair.

I have pushed my body continuously since spring marathon training began in February, not allowing it to stop, as I maintained focus from one even to the next. All that training coupled with a full-time job and school, means I don't get enough recovery time. I have had an amazing year so far, with almost every race ending in a PR. On top of that, I have successfully ventured into triathlon and ultra running. Recovery is a very important part of training, one that many people are horrible at because we just don't know how to sit still. My body deserves a break!

I have focused my energy on eating healthy and getting enough rest, rewarding my body for all it's hard work. But it hasn't completely gone as planned given my continuously demanding schedule. I have spent the last week cramming for this midterm after realizing how under prepared I was. This meant many high stressed days and late nights of studying. Sitting for hours on end, while my friends are out enjoying the beautiful weather, enjoying their ability to ride or run for as long as they desire. Previously my desire to run had been little to none. But after living like a sloth for the past few days, I am dying to move! Longing to run in this amazing fall weather! Running to feel the cool breeze across my skin, the wind in my hair, the crisp air in my lungs. Running to be free!

I am secretly longing for an ultra to jump into (guess it's not a secret anymore), but I just don't have time. I can't train for anything long right now. I need to focus on school, and need to focus on learning how to run through pain. Learning how to push at a faster pace and not stopping, not letting up, just keep pushing. I ran well this year, but had I possessed this skill, like so many runners whom I admire, I could have had even better times. I cannot wait to run with them, cannot wait to hit the track, the trail, the street. Regretting that I missed last night's team workout as I sat cracked out on coffee beans with my head in a book.

I cannot handle sitting still anymore! I am ready to run!!! So watch out...Here I come!!!

It's my birthday and I'll run if I want to

Yesterday was my birthday and it might just have been one of my favorite birthdays so far! Although I don't like the grey hair, I am really enjoying getting older. As a birthday present to myself, I set out to run the St. George marathon, which is listed by Runner's World as one of the top 10 most scenic marathons. And it just happened to be on my birthday.

I set out training for a 3:05, but secretly hoped I could squeeze out a sub-3 since it is a net downhill course, where runner's usually have a negative split. I had trained well with no injuries, just a bit of calf tightness in the week before the race, nothing a little extra rest and TLC couldn't handle. I flew in the night before, planning to run to the expo, eat dinner, and head to bed for an early start. Some members of the club thought I was crazy to fly in the night before, not allowing myself to adjust to the altitude, but I couldn't afford the extra time. Coach thought I was being too ambitious aiming for a 3:05 given that my PR thus far was 3:23:32. I figured at my last marathon I should have been able to do between a 3:10 and 3:15, but bonked from the heat, so I was well on my way to this faster goal with good training. So I didn't listen to him, something I rarely do. I knew I had to prove him wrong.

After arriving in my hotel, I jogged over to the expo in a nice 1 mile jaunt on a paved trail along the road with beautiful scenery. Could this place get any better? Yes! I ran into a bunch of kids racing to the finish of a 5k...so adorable! Once at the expo, I went to the spot where my bib should be, but I was told I had to go to another area. Confused, I walked in the direction of the Clydesdale/Athena and elite bibs. I opted to try the elite side first, hoping they didn't consider me an Athena. Sure enough I was in that box. I asked the lady perplexed and she said based on my projected time I was listed as elite because I was one of the top 150 women...pretty cool. I picked up my shirt and got some props for being elite. Thanks! I picked up a race band, and was pointed out for picking the fastest one (3:05...no sub-3 band). Thanks! I was feeling special, but humble. Then I jogged back to the hotel, incorporating a few stride outs to stretch out the legs. I was feeling good! I prepared my race attire and bag, adjusting the race band. I thought I would try to make up time in a negative split on the second half which would allow me to run with the 3:05 pace group for the first half and then work towards a sub-3 in the second half if I was feeling good by that point. I then ate my dinner and went to bed.

I planned to take one of the first shuttle buses to the start, I had no problem being there 1 hour 45 minutes early. I got up at 3:15 on race morning. Not as early as it sounds since there is a 2 hour time difference, so it was really 5:15 for me...one advantage over some of the other runners. In my early morning  pre-race anxiety, I only forgot a few things, nothing too essential. I couldn't decide if I wanted my music, thought while I was sleeping that I would take it, but forgot it in the end. Also forgot to Tiger Balm my calves, but was lucky they had some Bengay at the start (really, it's just not the same, but the placebo effect helped!)

The start of the race was amazing! All I thought about was why can't NYC do this? You walked into the waiting area and were handed a pair of gloves and mylar blanket. You were then pointed in the direction of the multiple small bonfires, all to keep you warm in the chilly morning temp. They also had bananas, Gatorade, water, plenty of port-a-potties with plenty of quilted toilet paper...the joys of a great pre-race bathroom experience. I sat around a fire waiting until it was time to hand over my bag and warm-up clothes. About a half an hour before the start, that time came, and I also realized I was hungry. I had eaten my bagel almost 2 hours earlier. I guess it was a little too early. The hotel had given us a breakfast bag, so I took a chance with the granola bar as it seemed the best option. I took of my sweatshirt and sweatpants, donning my husbands tubes socks as arm warmers (they really are convenient and you don't feel sorry when you toss them). I took my last bathroom break, opting for the farther port-a-potty in order to avoid the lines. When I headed back, I realized the corrals were moving forward a bit and I had to duck under the tape. Hey, I was elite, so I could. But I couldn't find the 3:05 pace leader. I asked someone, but she didn't know. It was too late now, I would have to figure it out on my own. Time to start running....

The start was dark. I ran with a water bottle for the first couple of miles taking sips as I felt parched, but then couldn't deal with it anymore and threw it to the side. Along with my gloves and arm warmers. I tried to check my splits with the light on my Garmin. I knew I was running too fast at a gotten down to a 6:36 min/mi, but felt good and thought it would make up some of the time I would lose on Veyo hill. The middle of the road was lined with rubble strips, which I had to focus on avoiding as I didn't want to fall on my face, but after about 5 miles, the sky began to lighten. I watched the miles go by and anticipated Veyo hill, planning to take my first gel just before the 7 mile mark, where Veyo was to start. I can say, that seeing it from afar was intimidating, but once running it, I felt fine. Sure I slowed down a lot, but it wasn't as hard as I had thought it would be. However, there was another 4 miles of hills to go. The prolonged exertion of those hills felt harder, but it was rolling so there were some breaks, and I knew once I got to mile 14 it was downhill. So I stayed positive and kept plugging along. I chatted with another runner, who told me some tidbits about the course. There was another hill to anticipate at mile 18, not too bad of a hill, just bad timing. Ok, I've got this!

Mile 14 was downhill for sure, it was steep. I tried to hold back while everyone else sped up around me. I wanted to save my quads as much as I could. At this point I had been dropped by the original women I had my eyes on a while back (she finished 10th...too fast for me), passed another one, and now had my eyes on a new target, a women in a flowery skirt. This was also the most beautiful point in the race. I focused on the scenery, a wide expanse of red cliffs. I watched bicyclists on the path along the road. Did I already say how amazing this place is? I felt myself feeling jealous of there ability to ride in such a bike friendly and beautiful environment. These things kept my mind busy. 

When I got to mile 16, I started to feel the pain in my quads. I talked to myself in order to run through it; "You just have to get to mile 18, and then it's all downhill". I got to mile 18 and slowed down a bit as I ran up the hill, and then worked to pick up the pace once over it. I tried to break down the rest of the course, but couldn't decide in my head how to do it, so I just focused on getting through the next  8+ miles. I had hit the halfway mark at just over 1:30 and figured according to my pace band that I was 2 minutes ahead of my sub-3 goal, so thought if I could pick it back up to a 6:40-6:50, I would be fine. I told myself people usually have a negative split, so I should be just fine! I could do this! Ok, yes, in reality, I was just at the margin of breaking sub-3, but my pace band was set to run a negative split and cover the second half at a faster pace, my race brain just wasn't really realizing this.

I was dropped by the woman in the flowery skirt, but didn't let that effect my confidence, and found another to target, a woman in a bright yellow tank. At mile 22, I fought with myself not to stop and walk. My brain was telling my legs, "if you stop now, you will give up as per your usual, so you have to keep running...if you stop now, it's really going to hurt when you start again, so you have to keep running". My legs responded by saying, "I just need a couple seconds break". My quads were on fire and essentially won. I stopped for a couple seconds and then picked it up telling myself I could walk through the water stop at mile 23. I had passed a women in a navy blue sports bra, but she re-passed me when I walked. As I picked up the pace, I was determined to pass her again and pass the woman in the bright yellow tank. And I did!

At one point I was advised by a spectator that I was the 18th woman, this was when I was ahead of the woman in the navy bra. But by mile 25, my quads were completely fatigued. They no longer hurt, in fact, I just couldn't really feel them anymore. They had no life left. I felt like I was running a 6:30 pace, but was in fact running much slower. I took a few more short walk breaks, realizing at this point I wasn't going to make the sub-3 time, but refusing to give up. I was essentially passed by the woman in the navy blue sports bra and regardless of how hard I tried, I couldn't catch up to her. I think she finished about 20 seconds ahead of me. I ran as hard as I could...that finish line couldn't come soon enough. I finished in 3:01:25! It wasn't a sub-3, I hadn't run a negative split, I realized that I ran the first have a bit too fast, but I was more than happy! I ran a fabulous PR, giving myself a wonderful birthday present. 

I was actually the 5th female in my age group as the 1st won the race...

Shortly after crossing the finish line, I was approached by a guy who had had his eye on my singlet as he ran. He used to be a member of VCTC, but was now living in DC. I met his friends and girlfriend and we relaxed together at the post-race area, with it's array of food choices, massages, and festivities. We gathered to watch the awards ceremony and planned a fabulous hike in Zion Canyon for recovery. With his girlfriend living in Brooklyn, another great triathlete/ironwoman, I put my recruiting skills to use, trying to convince them to join my fabulous team. I couldn't have run such an amazing race without the support of my teammates, some of the best friends I have!

Zion Canyon...breathtaking!

Whirlwind

This past weekend was both amazing and tumultuous. I hadn't been home to Vermont since Christmas, but had been anticipating the trip for a while. I was looking forward to social engagements, but bummed I couldn't run more due to tapering. In fact, the Vermont 50 was on Sunday and I so badly wanted to sign-up, but alas, running 50 miles the week before a marathon would be complete insanity if I wanted to race well. I just love running in the country...It beats the streets of NYC any day!

My sister came out to get us Thursday evening. Yep, she is pretty great, always coming to get us so the hounds can have a break from the city too. If only I could figure out a hassle free way to manage alternate side of the street parking, I would have a car and drive myself. We chatted away during the ride, catching up...and keeping me awake as I took over the driving. I have been over tired lately due to school, work, and training, so staying up late isn't easy...and we didn't get in until 1:30am.

The next morning I had my first social engagement, breakfast with a very dear friend. She actually used to be my therapist, but we have stayed in touch since I moved to NYC 7 years ago and is now more like family. I look forward to seeing her every time I go home...always one of the highlights of my trip. It was great to update her on all my running exploits and other life happenings. Always feels good to hear words of encouragement from someone you love.

It was Friday, and it was raining. I had a scheduled recovery run, but didn't feel like torturing myself and opted to do it another day. Recovery runs always feel like torture...I just like to run fast...and can never manage to run slow in the rain. I figured it was better to postpone in order to maintain my taper. So after a fabulous visit, I opted for some homework...blah.

That night I felt some all over body soreness, but tried to ignore it. However, it was only worse when I woke hope. But I headed out for my 10 miler anyways. It was drizzling, so I opted to stick to the main road instead of my favorite dirt road as I didn't want to get my brand new "marathon" shoes all muddy...yes, I am one of those clean freaks. I donned my compression socks and my new "birthday" (a bit early) iPod. Over the first mile my calves seemed to tighten more and more. This had never happened. I went back and forth between stopping or finishing the run. I did not want to injure myself. I only opted to continue because I didn't have time the following day. I stretched multiple times and tried to slow myself down (I was running faster than I wanted, but everything besides my calves felt good). They got better as time progressed, but the hills hurt. I wondered if it was the socks or if something was happening inside. I had recalled some calf cramping the night before while sleeping, so maybe it was a residual effect. I finished my run, a little worried. I didn't have time to ice, as I had another important engagement, so I ate some bananas, hoping the electrolytes would help.

Now time to prepare for my best friend, Noah's, wedding. He is Jewish and his beautiful bride is Indian. They picked a very simple Indian themed wedding in a Vermont field, with a few Jewish embellishments. It was absolutely beautiful...perfect! I cried as they said there vows. I have not seen two people so madly in love in a long while. It was breathtaking!

He is one of the most important people in my life and I couldn't be happier with his choice in a bride as she is just as amazing as he is. I only wish I could see them more often, but alas they live in Calcutta, India. If you ever want to donate to a great cause, check out Noah's NGO Calcutta Kids, which helps mothers and children in a slum of Calcutta...I fundraised for him during my first marathon and went out for a month to work with him.

Oh, and another reason I had to run that 10 miles...so I could eats loads of fabulous Indian food! Yes, I run to eat! But my diet has been horrible lately, and going home didn't help. I had been working at adopting the Paleo lifestyle, but going home meant a perpetual sugar high. You see, my mom has a daycare at home with a junk drawer, junk cupboard, and junk closet. For a sugar addict, it's hard to resist! Next time I need to pack all my own food and plan meals...next time...And with all that junk, I was beginning to feel bloated and lethargic.

Ok. So onto Sunday. I slept until noon. I had stayed out late at the wedding after party. Sleeping in felt great, but I had a baby shower to attend at 2pm. So I dressed, skipping the compression socks this time, and headed out the door for my recovery run. I tried to enjoy my favorite dirt road, but the run was torture. My calves were tightening again...and I had to force myself to slow down. I finished, unhappy, and more worried.

But again, no time to fret. I had to get ready for my little sister's baby shower...oh did I forget to mention she's 8 months preggo with my niece. Yep! And I can't wait to buy her first running shoes! I hate baby showers, I hate family gatherings, but I enjoyed watching my sister in her new more mature ways. I was worried when I first found out she was pregnant, only being 23, in an on and off relationship, and still having a final semester of college. But she has delightfully surprised me in how much she has grown up! She is going to be a fantastic mom! And I couldn't be more proud of her! I am so happy to feel like we are developing a closer relationship...something I have always wanted! At this point in my life, I don't really like kids (they cry and poop too much), but I am getting excited to be an aunt! (Anyone want to be on duty to drive me or loan me their car when delivery is approaching? I might just bake you a goody :-)

Anyways, the next day, it was time to head back to NYC. I opted to sleep in again...oh so nice to catch up on some zzz's. I also opted to take the day off instead of attempting another recovery run. Rest is just as good...and very important!

Tuesday I headed out for 7 miles with 2 at marathon pace. I tried out my compression socks again, but as soon as I started running my calves stiffened and my socks felt uncomfortably tight. I have run in my socks for a while now, but they feel so much tighter when my calves tense up. I stretched them well, which helped and kept running...and they kept tightening. They didn't feel good until I really picked up the pace, but everything else felt lethargic. Not a good outcome for one of my final runs before race day. More worrying!

I stretched after the run. I went to the gym at lunch to stretch some more and foam roll. My calves were still bothering me at the end of the day. Time for ice! And again today. More ice and rolling. I am trying to stay positive. I am sure it will be fine. Likely a result of high stress and anxiety. You see, despite all the great things that happened at home, I was overcome with negative emotions due to issues I won't bore you with. I don't think my body could handle all the emotional and physical stress it was under. It has revolted.

But I will take control! I fly out Friday morning to St. George, Utah. Once I arrive I will run a couple easy miles with a few stride-outs on my way to the expo and then go to bed after a quick bite to eat. I am hoping to get some good rest. For now it is ice, rolling, and plenty of oranges (they decrease inflammation). Come Saturday it will be time for...

All for a mile

A minute after I signed up for the 5th Avenue Mile, I realized I had made a mistake as I was already registered for a one day, no credit, but required class for school. Oh well, I thought. I will either see if the professor will allow me to be late, depending on my race start time, or take it next year. I mean, running a points race is way more important than going to class...you see where my priorities are.

As race day approached, I noted that my start time was 9:25am and class would start at 9am. Not too bad, especially since it was only 2 miles from the race. So I called the professor and asked if I could be late. He at first tried to tell me I would have to make a choice. I went on to say how important the race was as a team points race and that I was one of the faster females in my club so my choice would be to take the class next year. He then asked me what I thought the latest I would be. Well, I hoped to run the race in 5 and a half minutes, and I thought I could get there no later than 10am. His reply was, "OK. Don't bother coming to class if it is 10:05am. And don't bother coming if you don't PR". Hahaha...you got it!

Two days before the race, my allergies started bothering me quite horribly. I ran that morning and my chest was on fire, I was becoming congested. I started to take my allergy medicine, using my Neti Pot, and taking an expectorant in hopes that it would control the symptoms so I could run at my best, so I could continue my marathon training without complications. The therapies were working, but I was still struggling with some post-nasal drip. There wasn't much more I could do, so I would have to run through it.

The night before the race I had a long awaited date to go out with some of my favorite co-workers. I had such a good time, I stayed out much later than planned. I didn't get into bed until 12:30am. Being a little tipsy and tired, my math was not so good at this time. Coach said we should arrive at the race an hour early to warm up. I thought I would give myself an hour and a half so I could be sure to check my bag and have time to chat with my teammates since I would need to rush off after. So I decided to leave at 8am and get up at 7:15. I got up with no problems, took my time walking the dogs, put on my race apparel, ate my breakfast, and headed out the door....15 minutes later than planned. Oh well, I still had plenty of time...so I thought. As I sat on the subway relaxing, I suddenly realized that it was 8:40 and the race was starting at 9:25....WTF! I was supposed to be there at this time, not leave at this time. The train was going to take an hour, I had already been on it for about 20 minutes. SHIT! I got off and hailed a cab at 116th Street, hoping I would get someone who was a pro at quickly navigating traffic. It was an old guy...damn! But after calling Jill, my teammate, and telling her of my stupidity, he seemed to understand the urgency of getting me to my race on time and picked up the speed. I got to 59th Street at about 9am, 25 minutes until the start. As soon as I got out of the cab I started running. I was at the finish and had to first get to the three quarter mile mark to leave my bag with Jill and then run to the start. I dropped my bag successfully and kept running.

The start was horribly crowded. I had 15 minutes to the start time, but the corral was already full. I had hoped to do some stride-outs, but it seemed that would not be feasible if I wanted to have a good starting position. I had to pee too, but the line was super long and there wasn't time to wait. Oh well, I would have to hold it and make do with a mere  one mile warm-up of weaving my way to the start. I went to the corral entrance, but wasn't allowed in as it was too crowded. I just thought "oh man, I am doomed if I have to start from back here, this is just not my day". Then I saw some of my teammates go to the other side of the corral and make there way in, so I followed (thank you JoAnn for being a genius!). Success! As I worked my way to the front, Laura and Lili spotted me. They are quite the speedsters and I knew would also need to make their way to the front, so we all weaved our way through the crowd. I saw more familiar faces in the front. I never line up in the front and was surrounded by some super fast women. Deanna was on the other side of the start, she is amazing! Not only is she fast on short distances, but a super ultra woman too! I was nervous and tried to calm my nerves, but before I knew it, it was time to go.

I had never run a mile and really didn't have a race plan. I just didn't want to go out too fast and die. I hoped to allow myself to climb the small incline at the quarter mark and then gun it to the finish. I had set a goal time of 5:30 (although coach Glenn was predicting 5:25), not sure what my capabilities were. I haven't been training for short distances, skipping all of our coached track sessions in order to focus on my marathon training. All I could do was try my best and see if I would surprise myself.

As I set out, I almost fell, tripping on a slower runner in the front...dammit. I gained my composure and picked up my stride. I was right behind Laura and Deanna. Lili was long gone almost instantly. I was ecstatic to be starting out running with these women who inspire me, but wasn't sure how I would fare next to them. I was literally a stride behind Deanna and then I came inline with her at the quarter mark. She was in the zone and didn't notice me. I fell behind a bit as we came up on the half mark, just after the mini incline. My teammates would be cheering at the three quarter mark, so I tried to maintain until then, when I could really pick it up. I was right behind Deanna, who was right behind Laura. Before I knew it I could hear the cheers. I love my team! Go VCTC! I heard my dear friend John screaming at me, telling me to dig. So I dug as hard as I could. Trying to catch up with these amazing women. I finished just 2 seconds behind them in 5:26...Wahoo! What a mile!

I grabbed some water and an apple and began to make my way to my teammates to collect my bag. I started running as soon as I got around the major traffic, nearly running into people, got to my teammates for a quick report, collected my bag, and turned around to run to class. The sidewalks were crowded and weaving around people was difficult at times, I literally ran into a few people....sorry. Running with a full backpack was no fun either, as it was not a backpack designed for running. But I had to keep running. I had a goal of getting to class by 9:55am. I finally got to NYU, meeting my goal, and found the classroom with little difficulty (the hospital is a maze). When I looked in, everyone was sitting behind a computer, but there were a few empty seats in the back. I gave the professor a small wave and made my way to a seat. As soon as I sat down, the sweat started pouring down. Some classmates were looking at me...all red in the race and dripping wet. All I could do was wipe it away and wait for a break so I could change my clothes. Then the coughing began. That mile tore my lungs apart...and being sick, didn't help. At one point, the professor came up to me to give me my name badge. He whispered "How'd you do?". I said, "5:26". He gave me a big smile and a thumb's up. I beamed!

Post race coach love. I love my coaches! I love my team! VCTC rocks!

Bird-In-A-Hand and Whoopee Pie's

School has started, which means I have no time and my blogging has been lagging. I was notified this morning that I am way over due for a posting...plus I haven't informed you about my fabulous race a couple weekends ago. So here you go!

I needed a tune-up race for my upcoming marathon and my friend, Elena, signed up for the Bird-In-A-Hand half marathon in Amish county Pennsylvania, which was the perfect timing. She had run the marathon in the spring and if she completed this half, she was to be given a unique "road apple" award. So we planned a little road trip.

We set out Friday afternoon, checked into our hotel, and headed to the expo. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenery, being from Vermont and all...even the smell of manure...yep, country girl at heart. The expo was quite quaint, not much in it for running merchandise, but there were some homemade whoopie pies and apple cider donuts (sorry Amy, I'm not a very good Paleo devotee...I cheated...a lot). After a little snack, we headed to the hotel for some race preparation and relaxation. Then, we went back to the expo to watch the 5k...and eat s'mores (more on that later).

An interesting thing about running in Amish county is that the Amish people run. Yep, some of the men run dressed in there pants and suspenders. I was surprised to see some even had Garmins. And the pace leader...a horse and buggy. Well, they also had a bike in case the horse decided not to follow the rules of the race. People gathered as the race set out to start. Then we waited for the runners to make their way to the finish, which  was a long stretch lined by a white fence, crowded with cheering locals and family members...it was quite a site!

5k male winner sprinting to the finish

After the race, it was time for s'mores...Elena, the poor soul had never had a s'more before. I guess they don't make them in Belarus, her native country. I was excited to introduce her to them at the Finger Lakes 50, but she missed them before the kids gobbled them up. So this was her second chance. I think she enjoyed it...and the second one...

First taste of a s'more...yummy

With full bellies, we watched Bart Yasso give out the awards and then headed off to bed, but not before checking out the hardware. Age-groupers got medals with a whoopie pie on them...nice For the half, the medal would have a shoe-fly pie. Back at the hotel, I read some of the race facts...the course record was 1:28. My PR was 1:28:57. So I thought, either the course is harder than I think or not many fast runners come out. I studied the elevation chart, noting one quite big hill in the beginning, but thought the rest would be a piece of cake.

We woke up bright and earlier and headed to the race start in time to get a stellar parking spot. Then we relaxed in the car and ate our breakfast. The morning was cool, so I was hoping that the forecasted exceptionally high humidity would lay low so I could really push it on the run. When it was time, we headed to the start, positioning ourselves in the front. Then, we were off. In the beginning, I was running with another female. I let her stay in front, as I sensed that she wouldn't be able to hold the pace for too long. And I was correct. After about 2.5mi, we hit the big hill I was prepared for and she dropped back. But, I quickly realized that wasn't the only big hill. The course was completely rolling, with some hills steeper than others. And the humidity was high...~95%.

My thoughts were going back and forth about how hard to push. At this point, I already knew this wouldn't be a PR course. I kept telling myself I would rather have a shoo-fly pie medal than a generic trophy. I thought "you should just slow down and let that girl catch up". At a small out and back portion, I noted she was about a half mile behind me. Then I saw Elena. She excitedly yelled at me. I can't recall what she said now, but I remember telling her I was winning. Seeing her running well (this was her longest and fastest run since recovering from multiple stress fractures) gave me a push. I moved my thoughts to my intention of proving to coach that a marathon goal time of 3:05 isn't too ambitious. I kept running up and down the hills. At mile 7, at what I thought was the top of a hill, I grabbed some water, only to turn the corner and see the hill kept going. That was hard as I lost my momentum. I needed a gel, but had to wait until the hill was over and I found another water stop. My stomach wasn't really happy, but with the heat and massive amount of sweat, I needed some electrolytes. The water stops were great! Amish families came out. Running past all the little hands of the kids, seeing the smiles, was rewarding. Everyone cheered you on. Many noted I was the first female and cheered louder, which felt good. It gave me the drive to keep pushing. I took my gel shortly later and felt better.

Then we turned onto a dirt road. And I thought "What the hell?!?!" Although I love running on dirt roads, I wasn't prepared as I wore my racing flats and just hoped it wouldn't last long. I was lucky because it was just down a hill and then up another before we hit pavement again. The next thing I remember was passing a water stop that seemed to have only Powerade, which I didn't need, so I flew by...only to realize they were handing out Rita's italian ice in little cups. Damn, that would have been good cause I was HOT! Oh well, had to keep running. I caught up to a fellow Amish runner. We were going back and forth, but I eventually passed him. I had started passing male runners a while back, especially as I worked the downhills...for some reason many of them slowed on the downhills. At this point, I was getting my second wind, really wanting to gun it, wanting to be done, knowing I only had a 5k left...but I was nervous since I didn't know how treacherous the rest of the hills would be. So I kept plugging along, as hard as I could while still maintaining some steam. About a mile to the finish, I climbed the last hill, crested a turn and saw the finish....down hill, turn and there was the shoot. I bolted! The crowd was cheering. They were a blur. I ran as fast as I could straight across the finish line. Happy to be done, but knowing I needed to go back and get Elena. I took a quick water break and then asked one of the finish line volunteers to hold my medal while I went back to get my friend. She tucked it safely in the  pocket of her dress and I was off. As I ran, onlookers pointed me out as the winner, it felt great. But I secretly hoped Elena wasn't too far off. I was hot and had already decided I didn't want to run the other 5 miles I was supposed to for the day. Lucky for me, she was close and very happy to see me! She pushed to the finish, coming in 5th female and 1st in her age group. It was a great race!

We cooled off and headed to shower and check out of our hotel, then back to the race for awards.

I was delightfully surprised with a nice trophy cup 

And Elena got her "Road Apple"..yep horse poop

All handed to us by Bart Yasso 

Then it was time to adventure around Amish country. I wanted to go to Intercourse...

We did a little shopping, a little eating...Had the best hot pretzels in the world. It was a blast! I will be back in pursuit of the course record!

Tri Tri Again

Crazy nervous!

     My dear friend Laura, and another speedy friend whom I admire, decided that we should do a triathlon together. She did her first one at the end of June with a pool swim and wanted to attempt open water for the first time. We ended up picking the NYTri Staten Island Triathlon. I wasn't all that excited when I signed up as it consisted of much the same course as my first, and only other tri...not to mention, I was more focused on marathon training.
     I kept up my swimming half-heartedly while diving into marathon training. I swim at NYU, which has been crazy over the summer, causing me to lose my enjoyment of the pool. But, alas, I religiously went 2 times a week and managed to get in some drills, a little speed, and some shorter repeats...I kept getting cut off when attempting longer repeats and gave up trying...it always sucks to be on lap 15 and having someone cut you off, ruining your time.
     However, due to a little hip tendonitis, I hadn't ridden my bike in almost 2 months. My chiropractor graciously said I could run, but had to lay low on the bike, including spin. Since my main focus was my marathon and I was doing the tri just for fun, I was OK with that. My hip slowly got better and I was finally able to test it out on a ride...the day before the race. Not the best time to really ride hard, so I did a relaxed 25 miles. Just as well since my legs have been a bit tired from ramping up the running miles.
     I spent the night before the race at Laura's house...always a blast!. In the morning, I slept through my alarm for 14 minutes...I never do that, but have been really tired lately. Oh, well, I still had plenty of time to get ready. Most importantly, the truck started! For those who didn't read In Pursuit of a Bobble Head, on the morning of my first tri, the truck didn't start...great way to rev the nerves even more than they were already twirling. We loaded everything in and set off for the race, getting there in time to get a good spot in the transition area before the crowds arrived. We also had plenty of time to chat with friends and relax before the start.
     I was a little more nervous about the start of this race since we were starting out of the water and had to run in. Before the start, we were allowed to swim for a few minutes. I noticed that the water was choppy on the way to shore, making it hard to swim out...I swallowed a nasty mouthful...and decided I would walk to the first buoy. As the first wave of racers went, I realized I wasn't the only one who came to that decision. Once past the buoy, the swim seemed much easier than last time. I think it was mostly because my sighting was better this time around. It probably also helped that I could see through my goggles as last time they fogged up. There were a lot more people though. I bumped into one girl who glared at me. I didn't stop and just kept swimming. She stood up (you could touch the ground) and pushed my legs away. I just kept swimming.
     Coming around the last buoy I saw people walking/running to shore through the water. I decided to do the same in order to avoid swallowing any more water, but quickly realized how silly I was being. It would have been much faster to just swim! Roly, Laura's husband, was yelling at me to swim, but I had already removed my goggles, so just kept walking as fast as I could. My swim time is nothing to write home about, but I learned a good lesson for the next race...don't walk, just swim!

Lopsided helmet - oh well, no time for such 
trivial matters

     I ran as quickly as I could through the sand, across some concrete, and then the grass all the way to the transition area. Got my wetsuit off as fast as possible...yeah, I felt silly wearing one since the water was so warm, but I'm not sure I'm ready to swim without it. I pulled on my sneakers, threw on my helmet, grabbed my bike and headed out. Immediately, I felt how hard it was to pedal. I was riding against the wind. The only time I knew my actual speed was when I passed the police speed detector. My legs got quite tired when riding against the wind and I worried that it would cause me to suffer on the run, so I down-shifted to spin them out a bit and then upped the gear to regain some speed. Once around the corner, I could go faster with the wind at my back. I had three loops of that to do, looking forward to see my cheering friends at the end of each loop. I realized on the last loop that I didn't quite know where the dismount area was, so I kept my eyes peeled when I knew it was coming to an end. I eased into it and set off running for my transition area. Now for my favorite part...the run!

Those guys tried to use me as their rabbit...but they didn't keep up

     I set out on the concrete blocks, which I hate! I immediately regretted not wearing some compression sleeves as my shins were hurting, but kept pushing. I was passing people and never stopped passing people. I saw the winning male run by...it was an out and back course. I saw the water stop ahead and thought that was the turn around. But no, it was another mile away. At least this mile was on the boardwalk, but not before running up a bit of an incline. I kept my eyes peeled for women, only counting two ahead of me before I reached the turn around point. I was in third place! I saw that the 4th place female was a couple of minutes behind me. All I had to do was keep up my pace. Then, I saw Laura, who screamed at me to keep going...she thought I was in 2nd place. I knew she was wrong, but it gave me the drive to keep pushing. I flew! I heard guys commenting behind me as I passed. One guy tried to keep up...but I dropped him once I hit the final mile. I could see the finish and knew Roly and friends would be there. it was time to sprint! I ran as hard as I could to the finish, grabbed some water, and headed out to cheer for Laura as she came in.
     We were both really excited! I had placed third and Laura had conquered her fear of open water while placing in her age group. It wasn't until the awards ceremony, that I found out I was actually the 1st female...the two girls ahead of me had competed in the duathlon. I was astonished! And ecstatic! I won!!!

1st Female Overall...Still in shock! 

     To top it off, I again had a running PR. Not hard with a 4 miler since I have only done one other, but I had never run that fast in any race (6:14 min/mi). Now if I can only harness my running speed in a triathlon and use it in a road race...
     

Liebster Blog Award

My friend Amy (Check out her blog! She is easily one of my biggest inspirations!) nominated me for a Liebster Blog Award. The award is meant to be given to a blog that is a favorite of yours, particularly ones that are up and coming with a smaller following. Those nominated need to answer 11 questions posed by the person nominating, include 11 random facts, create 11 new questions and nominate 11 blogs.

1. What drives you in life? Accomplishing my goals. And I have many of them...Once I accomplish one, I make another.

2. How do you define success? Being happy while accomplishing my goals. It doesn't matter how small the achievement is, as long as I am happy with it, it was a success! Even if I don't quite meet my goal, but am happy with the end result, it was a success! I.e. running a race and not hitting my goal time, but running a smart race and as well as my body will allow for the day = success

3. Name one to three people in your life who are instrumental in where you are today and why. My Mom: She is the one who taught me I could do anything I set my mind to. 

My dog Elmira (1996-2010): Not sure who rescued who?!?! She was my first running partner.

4. Do you have any habits you'd like to break? I don't think I have any gross habits I need to break. Although my husband might think otherwise. But I do tend to be really hard on myself. I am a total Type A personality...a perfectionist. It can be quite defeating at times!

5. What is your most favorite thing about yourself? My perseverance. If I want something, I work hard until I am able to get it. I rarely give up

6. Where would your next vacation be if you could go anywhere in the world? Bali...it looks amazing and I've always wanted to go.

7. What do you find "uninteresting"? Watching sports on TV. I enjoy track, but basketball, baseball, football...they just last too long. I can watch a little bit and then get bored. Watching live is way more exciting!

8. Would you rather be too hot or too cold? I would rather be too cold (I grew up in Vermont). It's always easier to put on more clothes, but you can't really run around naked all the time when it's hot.

9. What is your daily "dress" routine before a run? Roll out of bed and put on the clothes I set out the night before (clothes that hardly ever match). Grab my Garmin from it's charger and if I remember, my Road ID. I always head out first in my flip flops as I take my hounds for their morning outing (also gives me a chance to verify that my attire is weather appropriate). Then when I get home I throw on my socks and one of 2 or 3 pairs of shoes, depending on the rotation and type of run scheduled. And if I need it, I grab my waist pack water bottle holder (I seem to be the camel for some of my running partners :)

10. Who gave you the best massage you've ever had? A blind masseuse in Chang Mai, Thailand. I went everyday for a week. Can't beat a 2hr massage for $10. It wasn't luxurious and was a bit painful, but the masseuse worked magic with his/her elbows.

11. If you had to pick one food to live on for the rest of your life, what would it be? Peanut butter. I ate half a peanut butter sandwich (plain, no jelly or Fluff) everyday for lunch as a kid. That is until I was able to eat a whole one. Unfortunately, I have started the paleo diet and cut legumes (yes, peanuts are a legume and not a nut) out of my diet. So now I eat almond butter. Not quite the same, but still tasty!

11 Random Things About Me:

1. I love elephants. My favorite adventure of all time was learning to ride bareback in Thailand (don't worry...I made sure to patronize a place that treats their elephants humanely!)
2. I am quite accident prone...clumsy. I tend to run into walls and fall up stairs. I rode my bike into a sign as a kid (guess that's why my mom wasn't so crazy about me getting into triathlons).
3. I was kicked in the face by a horse as a kid. First and only time I've had stitches.
4. I stress out way too often...probably due to my being a perfectionist and having pessimistic tendencies.
5. I am from Vermont and my grandfather makes maple syrup, but I only recently started eating the real stuff.
6. Again, I am from Vermont....but I hate snow. Never got into skiing or snowboarding, or any other winter sport for that matter.
7. My mom used to call me a tackle box. Yep, I was one of those kids with multiple piercings.
8. I have an addiction to chocolate! But only the good stuff :)
9. I talk about sex all day and get paid for it...Adolescent HIV...my other passion besides running.
10. I am a total nerd. I love watching the Discovery Health Channel. And, yes, much to my family's dismay, I can watch all the bloody stuff while eating.
11. I am a perpetual student. I have 2 Bachelor's degrees, am currently working on my second Master's, and planning my PhD.

Blog Nominees:

Running: These give me inspiration, training tips, and race reports.

Inwood Runner

Will Run for Beer

Fast Foodie

Jack's Ultrarunning Blog and more!

Camille Herron: 2:37 Marathoner. Lives Like a Monk. Races Like an Animal.

Chrissie Wellington

Nutrition: I just learned about this blog! I just started the paleo lifestyle and can't wait to try out some of these recipes.

PaleOMG

Public Health: I really should read more blogs about public health!

Calcutta Kids

Karen Grepin's Global Health Blog

My 11 Questions:

1. If you could change your profession, what would it be?
2. Who is your role-model and why?
3. If you could be an animal, what would it be and why?
4. What was the last book that you read?
5. What's your favorite quote?
6. What food do you detest?
7. If you could teach everyone one lesson, what would it be?
8. Where's your favorite place to relax?
9. Beer, cocktail, or wine?
10. What is your biggest fear?
11. What's your greatest indulgence?