Saturday, I completed my 5th ultra. I was nervous. I wasn't sure I had it in me to run 31 miles solo. Imagine, no race support, water stations, aid stations, nothing for 31 miles…just a protein bar, a bag of granola and a water bottle. Trey wanted to meet me during my run, but since I planned to run on the Trinity Trail for the majority of the distance, he wasn't sure he'd be to meet me.
For breakfast I ate 3 eggs, a third of a sweet potato and a wheat roll.
Around 4:45 am, I started the clock and I let it roll until I was done running. I didn't stop my watch like I normally would during a training run. During training runs, I might run for 3 miles and then stop my watch for like 20 seconds to take a sip of water, not this time. If I took a walk or water break - I kept the time rolling. I didn't have to take a bathroom break, so that was nice!
Trey and the girls met me around mile 29. They were on their way to get breakfast. Trey parked about 50 yards in front of me. The girls ran to me. I paused for a moment to give them hugs and kisses. At that point I was out of water, I had been stopping off and on and refilling my hand-held bottle every time I'd see a water fountain. Well, the last water fountain I passed was not working. Luckily, Trey had some water waiting for me, when I met him. When I got home I sat on the front porch for 10 minutes, to cool down.
An hour later, I took an ice bath. It was terrible, but science says it's beneficial for recovery. I've only done 2 ice baths in my entire life. The rest of the day, I re-hydrated, refueled, stayed in bed and napped.
Showing posts with label Race. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Race. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Monday, March 02, 2015
2015 Cowtown Half Marathon
Distance: Ultra Marathon 13.1 miles Half Marathon
Duration: 2:00:26
Average Pace Per Mile: 9:12
Gender Place: 565 out of 3428
Overall Place: 1924 out of 6571 Half Marathon Runners
Friday morning, it started to snow and within hours the roads were icy. Saturday, the ice didn't melt…so, Cowtown 5 and 10K races were cancelled. All day Saturday, I was anxiously waiting to hear if the marathon races were going to be canceled like the 5K and 10K events. Well, around Saturday evening, they announced the cancellation of the marathon and ultra…BUT the half was still on! It was going to be delayed by an hour start time, but the half was going to happen. Anyone signed up for the marathon or ultra could run the half. As you know, I've been training for the ultra. This would've been my fifth ultra finish.
Saturday evening, the city of Ft. Worth had sand trucks out pouring sand on the race course. Workers and volunteers worked through the night and through the morning - preparing the streets for the race.
Saturday, the roads were slick and I didn't want to take my chances driving to the expo. I decided not to get my packet and I decided to wait until race morning. I arrived at the expo at 6 am. It was pretty empty! I had to remind myself that it was 2 hours before race start, but still! Were people going to show up????
Around 7:30 am I noticed a crowd. It wasn't nearly as packed as previous years, but there were runners there ready to make the most of race day.
Running conditions were wonderful (considering the circumstances), but I was cautious and I know I held back on speed because I was afraid of slipping. I know I could've ran faster and harder, but I didn't and that's ok. For me this race was "I've been at home for 2 days iced in…I need to run race." It was not a PR go all out and prove something race. Also, I had been training for a few months, I was ready to race, even if it wasn't the distance I had initially signed up for…I was ready.
2 hours of running went by so fast!
I took the above photo around 11 am, as I was walking back to my car. Spectating conditions were terrible. I don't blame anyone for not spectating this year and I don't blame anyone for not wanting to run.
I was hoping to run 31 miles on Sunday and instead I ran 13. Honestly, I'm grateful everything worked out, even though I couldn't run the 50K. It would've been easier for race officials to cancel all racing events this weekend, but they didn't. I'm thankful, I ran. I'm thankful, I did not get injured. I'm thankful I made it safety to and from the expo. I love my city, I love the Ft. Worth running community and I love Cowtown.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
2014 Cowtown Official Race Photos
My Race Results:
Distance: 50K (31 miles)
Duration: 5:28:56
Average Pace Per Mile: 10:37
Overall Place: 145 out of 451 Ultra runners
550 Ultra Runners Registered. 451 Finishers.
Gender Place: 42 out of 201
Division Place (25-29 yrs): 9th out of 21
The Trinity Trails aka the painful miles. Mile 26 'ish.
I heard a spectator yell, it makes it easier if you smile, so I tried to smile. He was right, it helped.
Sprinting to the finish line. At the end of a 50K, a 10:30 mile is a sprint (for me).
About to cross the finish line! PRAISE THE LORD! Also, holla and food me!
Happy.
I already passed one mat, it's over right? Can I stop now????
Sweet victory tastes like salty sweat.
After I crossed the finish line I sat down to catch my breathe, text and call my friends and family who had been following my race. When it was time for me to stand up, I felt every ache in my body. I saw two gentlemen and asked them to help me up. They laughed at me and called me crazy, but they did help me. Today, I'm feeling less sore. All the foam rolling and stretching has helped.
Similar Post:
2014 Cowtown Ultra Results
http://domandtrey.blogspot.com/2014/02/2014-cowtown-ultra-results.html
Monday, February 24, 2014
2014 Cowtown Ultra Results
I don't even know where to start, so I'll start with the results.
2011 Finish Time: 5:27:24
2014 Finish Time: 5:28:56
Seriously???? Yes. I was nowhere near my 5:17 goal, but to be that close to a PR was a bit tough to swallow.
This year's ultra marathon was a sold out race. There were 550 participants registered. I finished 145 overall and 42nd in my gender. Here it is….the official results. I was pretty steady, up until the very end.
4:15 am I woke up.
4:30 am I got out of bed and got dressed.
5:00 am Ate blueberry oatmeal.
5:15 am Left the house.
5:35 am Arrived at Will Rogers Memorial for Sunrise Service. There was praise and worship and a devotional service.
6:15 am Bathroom break and tried to connect face-to-face with Sherri
6:50 am Hopped in corral 5 and immediately found the 4:40 marathon pacer. It took me a minute of debating with myself to move closer to the 4:30 marathon pacer.
7:10 am One last pit-stop to the bathroom. No lines. I guess that's one advantage of being in the 5th corral. I made it back, just in time to find the pacer and just like that, we were running.
The first half of my race, not pictured here, was pretty solid. 10-10:20 splits. Mile 22 is when things start to get interesting. I told the pacer, "I'm going to try to hang with you as long as I can." And I did, but things started to unravel between mile 23-24. That's when I lost her. I knew I was going to lose her for sure at mile 25 when the ultra and marathon split, but I so badly wanted to hang out to her until the end.
Unfortunately, Trey did not spectate the race, but my friend Sherri ran the half marathon and then spectated. She called me several times and asked me if I needed anything. She offered me pickled juice and I said, "YES! That sounds wonderful." She ran a little ways with me and encouraged me. When she asked me how I felt, I told her the truth, "I'M EXHAUSTED!" My mom also called me several times, but every time she called, I started to pick up my pace, so thanks mom!
Once I started to run on the trinity trail, my legs had enough. I want to say that was around mile 24. I was so weak, but tried to push on. At that point, I knew I was well ahead of my goal, so I started to take walk breaks...but before I knew it, time was slipping away from me. My 5:17 goal was slipping away. I wasn't mad, I was just like OK. Maybe I can beat my 2011 time???
A lot of distance runners say, it's important to take walk breaks to conserve energy, but I'm not so sure that's the right thing for me or at least on this course/this race…and when I started to take frequent walk breaks, it really messed me up. I'd stop running and then I'd feel ALL the pain, 10 times more, which made it that much harder to start running again. My friend Michael who had recently attempted to complete a 100 mile race, was cheering me on at the 27 mile aid station. I slowed down there a lot, which looking back now, was probably my number one mistake. Runners you know, how these stations make you want to get cozy and relax, when you should be high-tailing it to the finish line! Someone said, don't worry - soon the announcer will be calling your name at the finish line! And that was my mantra, to get me through those last brutal miles.
Today, I picked up the girls. They were in Abilene partying - while I was running and recovering. It was so good to see them. We spent the evening together foam rolling.
My ballerina got into it too.
I have lots more to share, but I think this is good for now! Stay tune for more Cowtown Race Weekend chatter.
2011 Finish Time: 5:27:24
2014 Finish Time: 5:28:56
Seriously???? Yes. I was nowhere near my 5:17 goal, but to be that close to a PR was a bit tough to swallow.
This year's ultra marathon was a sold out race. There were 550 participants registered. I finished 145 overall and 42nd in my gender. Here it is….the official results. I was pretty steady, up until the very end.
4:15 am I woke up.
4:30 am I got out of bed and got dressed.
5:00 am Ate blueberry oatmeal.
5:15 am Left the house.
5:35 am Arrived at Will Rogers Memorial for Sunrise Service. There was praise and worship and a devotional service.
6:15 am Bathroom break and tried to connect face-to-face with Sherri
6:50 am Hopped in corral 5 and immediately found the 4:40 marathon pacer. It took me a minute of debating with myself to move closer to the 4:30 marathon pacer.
7:10 am One last pit-stop to the bathroom. No lines. I guess that's one advantage of being in the 5th corral. I made it back, just in time to find the pacer and just like that, we were running.
The first half of my race, not pictured here, was pretty solid. 10-10:20 splits. Mile 22 is when things start to get interesting. I told the pacer, "I'm going to try to hang with you as long as I can." And I did, but things started to unravel between mile 23-24. That's when I lost her. I knew I was going to lose her for sure at mile 25 when the ultra and marathon split, but I so badly wanted to hang out to her until the end.
Unfortunately, Trey did not spectate the race, but my friend Sherri ran the half marathon and then spectated. She called me several times and asked me if I needed anything. She offered me pickled juice and I said, "YES! That sounds wonderful." She ran a little ways with me and encouraged me. When she asked me how I felt, I told her the truth, "I'M EXHAUSTED!" My mom also called me several times, but every time she called, I started to pick up my pace, so thanks mom!
Once I started to run on the trinity trail, my legs had enough. I want to say that was around mile 24. I was so weak, but tried to push on. At that point, I knew I was well ahead of my goal, so I started to take walk breaks...but before I knew it, time was slipping away from me. My 5:17 goal was slipping away. I wasn't mad, I was just like OK. Maybe I can beat my 2011 time???
A lot of distance runners say, it's important to take walk breaks to conserve energy, but I'm not so sure that's the right thing for me or at least on this course/this race…and when I started to take frequent walk breaks, it really messed me up. I'd stop running and then I'd feel ALL the pain, 10 times more, which made it that much harder to start running again. My friend Michael who had recently attempted to complete a 100 mile race, was cheering me on at the 27 mile aid station. I slowed down there a lot, which looking back now, was probably my number one mistake. Runners you know, how these stations make you want to get cozy and relax, when you should be high-tailing it to the finish line! Someone said, don't worry - soon the announcer will be calling your name at the finish line! And that was my mantra, to get me through those last brutal miles.
Today, I picked up the girls. They were in Abilene partying - while I was running and recovering. It was so good to see them. We spent the evening together foam rolling.
My ballerina got into it too.
I have lots more to share, but I think this is good for now! Stay tune for more Cowtown Race Weekend chatter.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
All Set for Cowtown
This is happening tomorrow…. The girls are in Abilene, so Trey will be spectating!!!! I'm so excited about that! Last year, he decided to stay at home with the girls, while I ran the half marathon.
I finally decided on what to wear… I will start off wearing either this long sleeve white shirt or I'll find a short sleeve shirt and then toss it, when I get hot. Here's the race day forecast. HOT, if you ask me.
Okay, time to go to bed. This feels like the night before Christmas!
I finally decided on what to wear… I will start off wearing either this long sleeve white shirt or I'll find a short sleeve shirt and then toss it, when I get hot. Here's the race day forecast. HOT, if you ask me.
Okay, time to go to bed. This feels like the night before Christmas!
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Sunshine Smiles, Birthday Dinner, Race Results & Official Pics
If this picture doesn't make you happy, I'm not sure there is a picture out there, that will.
Last week, was my younger sisters birthday. She's 20 years, young. Basically, a baby. I took her to Hacienda San Miguel's resturant, Saturday night, after I ran Rockledge Rumble 50K. I think I over did it that day, but it was totally worth it, to have some girl time with my sister.
I ordered pork tacos. It was delicious. Afterwards, we went out for coffee and gelato.
P.S. Rocklege Rumble Race Results are posted. And my race proofs are also posted. I look exhausted in them. The photos were taken right as I was about to cross the finish line. I was running up a flight of stairs. It's ok if you laugh at me and my --- I'm ready to collapse form.
Enjoy!
Photos:
http://www.racephotonetwork.com/QPPlus/Proofs.aspx
Race Results:
Overall, I placed 36th out of 69 runners.
http://nttr.org/rumble/results/2013-rumble-results-50k.pdf
Last week, was my younger sisters birthday. She's 20 years, young. Basically, a baby. I took her to Hacienda San Miguel's resturant, Saturday night, after I ran Rockledge Rumble 50K. I think I over did it that day, but it was totally worth it, to have some girl time with my sister.
I ordered pork tacos. It was delicious. Afterwards, we went out for coffee and gelato.
P.S. Rocklege Rumble Race Results are posted. And my race proofs are also posted. I look exhausted in them. The photos were taken right as I was about to cross the finish line. I was running up a flight of stairs. It's ok if you laugh at me and my --- I'm ready to collapse form.
Enjoy!
Photos:
http://www.racephotonetwork.com/QPPlus/Proofs.aspx
Race Results:
Overall, I placed 36th out of 69 runners.
http://nttr.org/rumble/results/2013-rumble-results-50k.pdf
Monday, November 11, 2013
Happy Veteran's Day!
Did you know the Rockledge Rumble Trail Race is a supporter of the wounded warrior project? The race benefits wounded American Veteran's.
Here is the finisher medal and finisher pullover. I kind of love the American Flag on my arm. I just want to say a huge thank you to all Veteran's who have served our country. Thank you!
Not related to Veteran's Day, but I feel like mentioning this...Dakota just wanted to be held today. She's at least 25 pounds! Doesn't she know momma is still sore?
Here is the finisher medal and finisher pullover. I kind of love the American Flag on my arm. I just want to say a huge thank you to all Veteran's who have served our country. Thank you!
Not related to Veteran's Day, but I feel like mentioning this...Dakota just wanted to be held today. She's at least 25 pounds! Doesn't she know momma is still sore?
Sunday, November 10, 2013
2013 Rockledge Rumble 50K Trail Race Report
Distance: 31.46
Duration: 6:35:22
Average Pace per Mile : 12:34
Age Group: I placed 2nd!
Gender Placement: 6th female finisher
Overall Finish: 37th place out of ???? I'm really not sure how many runners were out there. The website has not been updated with official results. I took a photo of a monitor at the finish line.
Weather: It was around 45 degrees at the start. It warmed up to about 70 at the finish.
10-15 mph wind, but since I was on the trail (thick trees), it wasn't an issue.
Let's talk about the race!
The weather was great! But I made a mistake, at the very beginning of the race. Don't ask me why, but I was wearing a pullover. It only took me 2 miles to feel warmed up and I was ready to get rid of my sweater.
By mile 10, I ended up taking the sweater off and bunching it up into a ball and carrying it. I had my handheld water in my right hand and the sweater ball in my left. ANNOYING! It was my favorite lululemon pullover, but if it was any other one, I probably would've just tossed it in the bushes. I eventually got rid of my extra baggage when I got to mile 22, the "pit stop", where I had a bag of clothes, extra shoes, socks, and petroleum jelly. Once I got to that area, I rested for about 1 minute. I didn't need to change shoes/clothes/sock, nothing. I took it just in case. About 10 feet away from the bag areas was a fluid and aid station. Ultra races have the best food. Think 10 year old slumber party (snacks)….gummy bears, animal crackers, soda, pretzels, M&M's, etc.
My fuel of choice for ultras or at least this one---- chips and PBJ sandwiches. I also drank some heed. It's an electrolyte drink similar to Gatorade. It's not my favorite, but I drank it, I didn't consume any GU's. That's a first for me. I really hate GU's, they weigh my stomach down.
What else? What else? The trail itself was not easy or hard. The trail was somewhere in the middle. Now, the distance was hard, but the trail was not, if that makes any sense. There were so many tree roots and rolling baby hills. I spent 95% of the race, looking at the ground because I did not want to trip. I stumbled at least 10 times, but never fell down.
This is where the trail ended. After running 31 miles, I had to run up a flight of steep stairs. Ouch and Ouch.
I enjoyed running Rockledge Rumble and I would love to run it next year! Now, that I'm familiar with the trail -- spending six hours out there makes me feel that way :)
I feel like if I race it next year, I would do a few things differently.
1. I would start off a lot slower. I said I was planning on running slowly, but I raced the first 13 miles of the race. I started passing runners on the trail 2 miles in, that was a mistake on my part. Miles 14 - 21 were not my favorite. I needed to conserve my energy. By some miracle, around mile 22, I started to get my second wind. I felt great and pretty much ran strong to the finish, from that point forward. I took walk breaks and that helped.
2. Next time, when figuring out my goal time, I will account for stopping at aid stations.
I'm happy that I finished the race and most importantly had a great time. It's not everyday I get to run on trails, so when I do, it's a real treat! Today, I'm feeling a bit sore. Tomorrow, I might go for a slow run or I might cross train. I love ultras and I can't believe I've only ran three of them. I'm registered to run Cowtown 50K, in Feb. so that will be my next BIG race.
Duration: 6:35:22
Average Pace per Mile : 12:34
Age Group: I placed 2nd!
Gender Placement: 6th female finisher
Overall Finish: 37th place out of ???? I'm really not sure how many runners were out there. The website has not been updated with official results. I took a photo of a monitor at the finish line.
Weather: It was around 45 degrees at the start. It warmed up to about 70 at the finish.
10-15 mph wind, but since I was on the trail (thick trees), it wasn't an issue.
Let's talk about the race!
The weather was great! But I made a mistake, at the very beginning of the race. Don't ask me why, but I was wearing a pullover. It only took me 2 miles to feel warmed up and I was ready to get rid of my sweater.
By mile 10, I ended up taking the sweater off and bunching it up into a ball and carrying it. I had my handheld water in my right hand and the sweater ball in my left. ANNOYING! It was my favorite lululemon pullover, but if it was any other one, I probably would've just tossed it in the bushes. I eventually got rid of my extra baggage when I got to mile 22, the "pit stop", where I had a bag of clothes, extra shoes, socks, and petroleum jelly. Once I got to that area, I rested for about 1 minute. I didn't need to change shoes/clothes/sock, nothing. I took it just in case. About 10 feet away from the bag areas was a fluid and aid station. Ultra races have the best food. Think 10 year old slumber party (snacks)….gummy bears, animal crackers, soda, pretzels, M&M's, etc.
My fuel of choice for ultras or at least this one---- chips and PBJ sandwiches. I also drank some heed. It's an electrolyte drink similar to Gatorade. It's not my favorite, but I drank it, I didn't consume any GU's. That's a first for me. I really hate GU's, they weigh my stomach down.
What else? What else? The trail itself was not easy or hard. The trail was somewhere in the middle. Now, the distance was hard, but the trail was not, if that makes any sense. There were so many tree roots and rolling baby hills. I spent 95% of the race, looking at the ground because I did not want to trip. I stumbled at least 10 times, but never fell down.
This is where the trail ended. After running 31 miles, I had to run up a flight of steep stairs. Ouch and Ouch.
I enjoyed running Rockledge Rumble and I would love to run it next year! Now, that I'm familiar with the trail -- spending six hours out there makes me feel that way :)
I feel like if I race it next year, I would do a few things differently.
1. I would start off a lot slower. I said I was planning on running slowly, but I raced the first 13 miles of the race. I started passing runners on the trail 2 miles in, that was a mistake on my part. Miles 14 - 21 were not my favorite. I needed to conserve my energy. By some miracle, around mile 22, I started to get my second wind. I felt great and pretty much ran strong to the finish, from that point forward. I took walk breaks and that helped.
2. Next time, when figuring out my goal time, I will account for stopping at aid stations.
I'm happy that I finished the race and most importantly had a great time. It's not everyday I get to run on trails, so when I do, it's a real treat! Today, I'm feeling a bit sore. Tomorrow, I might go for a slow run or I might cross train. I love ultras and I can't believe I've only ran three of them. I'm registered to run Cowtown 50K, in Feb. so that will be my next BIG race.
Wednesday, October 09, 2013
Road Marathon or Trail Race? Decision Made
For the past week, I've been debating whether or not to register for Dallas Marathon. Originally, I planned to -- but the more I think about it, the more I don't want to pay the $130 registration fee. I might change my mind later, (suck up the cost) and register last minute. For now, my big fall race will be Rockledge Rumble 50K (31 miles). It's a trail race located in Grapevine on the North Shore. The registration fee was $80, not bad for a well supported trail race. I've had my eyes on this race for about 3 years.A few years ago, I ran the North Shore trail. I wouldn't say it's technical, but there are tree roots everywhere and lots of opportunities to face plant. Even though, I wouldn't consider this trail technical, the distance WILL be a challenge. The furthest distance I've ran at one time, this year was back in July, when I ran Rough Creek (22 miles). What's another 9 miles? Actually, from what I've read from past Rockledge race reviews, the race covers 33 miles, not 31 like advertised. The race is a few weeks away, so it looks like I'll be running a few +18 mile long runs the next few weekends.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Cedar Ridge 36 KM Trail Race Photos - Don't Call Me Cheap
I got all excited about my race photos and Trey was like why are you so excited??? You never buy any. Just because he said that I'm cheap and I don't ever buy race pics, I went ahead and bought one. So, there.
If you want to see the rest of the proofs the link is below. My bib number is 302.
http://www.racephotonetwork.com/QPPlus/Proofs.aspx
Official Results
Overall, I placed 24th out of 55 runners who completed the race.
I placed 1st in my age group (females)
Overall female finish at 7th place
My name is featured in the top 2013 Cedar Ridge 36 KM - female performers banner! I was pretty excited about that one!
Interesting fact, all the women who placed ahead of me are older than me.
(Official Results page)
Here are some randoms about the race
- Trail runners like to run shirtless. Also, most of them are pretty darn fit. I kept my shirt on so, I could wipe the sweat off my face.
- When I was going downhill (in my head) I would say, "Wheee!"
- When I was hiking up, I was quite miserable.
- I forgot to put petroleum jelly on my feet. I'm thankful I did not get blisters.
- After running a hard race, it makes me want to run a super flat trail.
- There were quite a few hikers on the trail and most of them cheered me on. Thanks, it helped!
- Aid Stations and Volunteers were awesome! Someone was always filling up my cup, while I was stuffing my face with food. Thanks!
- I twisted my ankles a few times, but nothing serious. The tree roots were everywhere.
- A spectator told me she saw two runners with broken bones. She said foot injuries. Ouch!
- I drank about 6 bottles of water on the almost 5 hour long race and I didn't have to take a bathroom break. Lots of sweating.
- My fuel of choice on this run - Bananas, Potato chips, peanut butter and jelly sandwich and red grapes. I took two shots of cola, it made me burp.
- After the race Endurance Buzz had chicken and veggie burritos.
-I'm recovering ok. I'm still sore, but I'm good to do some light running or cross training again.
If you want to see the rest of the proofs the link is below. My bib number is 302.
http://www.racephotonetwork.com/QPPlus/Proofs.aspx
Official Results
Overall, I placed 24th out of 55 runners who completed the race.
I placed 1st in my age group (females)
Overall female finish at 7th place
My name is featured in the top 2013 Cedar Ridge 36 KM - female performers banner! I was pretty excited about that one!
Interesting fact, all the women who placed ahead of me are older than me.
(Official Results page)
Here are some randoms about the race
- Trail runners like to run shirtless. Also, most of them are pretty darn fit. I kept my shirt on so, I could wipe the sweat off my face.
- When I was going downhill (in my head) I would say, "Wheee!"
- When I was hiking up, I was quite miserable.
- I forgot to put petroleum jelly on my feet. I'm thankful I did not get blisters.
- After running a hard race, it makes me want to run a super flat trail.
- There were quite a few hikers on the trail and most of them cheered me on. Thanks, it helped!
- Aid Stations and Volunteers were awesome! Someone was always filling up my cup, while I was stuffing my face with food. Thanks!
- I twisted my ankles a few times, but nothing serious. The tree roots were everywhere.
- A spectator told me she saw two runners with broken bones. She said foot injuries. Ouch!
- I drank about 6 bottles of water on the almost 5 hour long race and I didn't have to take a bathroom break. Lots of sweating.
- My fuel of choice on this run - Bananas, Potato chips, peanut butter and jelly sandwich and red grapes. I took two shots of cola, it made me burp.
- After the race Endurance Buzz had chicken and veggie burritos.
-I'm recovering ok. I'm still sore, but I'm good to do some light running or cross training again.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Cedar Ridge 36 KM (22 miles) Trail Race
Distance: 36 KM (22 miles)
Duration: 4:45:59
Weather: Start Time was 73 degrees. With the breeze, it felt a little chilly.
Unofficial Results:
I talked to the race director and he said there were 60 runners registered for the 36 KM race. I'm still waiting for the official results to be posted online, but according to the print out (at the race), I placed 24th overall and 7th place out of females. I'm anxious to see if I placed in my age group!!!!
I started the race with straight hair and this is how it looked, when I finished.
This is my new trail buddy, Robin. I met her at EnduraLAB.
OK. OK. Let me tell you about the trail.
IT WAS TOUGH!!!! Words alone can't describe how difficult it was, so I took photos to illustrate my point. The majority of the time, I had my eyes down. I tripped over tree roots and rocks, but never fell on my face, so that's good! The race started before sunrise at 5:30 am so, everyone wore headlamps. By the time I completed my first loop, I didn't need it, anymore. The course was almost entirely shaded, with trees -- which I loved. I was concerned with all the rain we got, days leading up to the race, that the trail would be muddy, but it was not. If anything, it helped to soften the soil. Some areas of the trail were really bouncy.
Imagine hills -- steep hills like this, Imagine running up something like this say times 20.
There were times, when I had to completely stop, put my hands on my knees and my head between my legs to catch my breath. Yes, the thought of quitting crossed my mind. But since I wasn't injured, I didn't see any good reason why I should quit. I started the run, I needed to finish it.
Before I ran, I had a goal of running an 11 minute pace or if the course was "tough," maybe I would run 11:30. LOL!!!!!! I had no idea what was in store for me. Now, I know. Just to give you an idea how different this run was for me compared to road running here's an example.
I ran the Dallas Marathon (26.2 miles a road race) in 4 hours 15 minutes versus this 22 mile trail race at 4 hours 45 minutes.
Now, I know how technical this trail is.
At least the weather was nice. I can't imagine having to run in 90 degree weather. I'm thankful for the cool front.
I'm always pleased when I get a sock line.
This is what I had for breakfast before heading off to the race. Spinach, sweet potatoes and ground turkey. Today, I feel sore. I might go for a walk, later just to loosen up. The girls are in Abilene with the grandparents, so I think Trey and I are going to get out and do some fun things.
Duration: 4:45:59
Weather: Start Time was 73 degrees. With the breeze, it felt a little chilly.
Unofficial Results:
I talked to the race director and he said there were 60 runners registered for the 36 KM race. I'm still waiting for the official results to be posted online, but according to the print out (at the race), I placed 24th overall and 7th place out of females. I'm anxious to see if I placed in my age group!!!!
I started the race with straight hair and this is how it looked, when I finished.
This is my new trail buddy, Robin. I met her at EnduraLAB.
OK. OK. Let me tell you about the trail.
IT WAS TOUGH!!!! Words alone can't describe how difficult it was, so I took photos to illustrate my point. The majority of the time, I had my eyes down. I tripped over tree roots and rocks, but never fell on my face, so that's good! The race started before sunrise at 5:30 am so, everyone wore headlamps. By the time I completed my first loop, I didn't need it, anymore. The course was almost entirely shaded, with trees -- which I loved. I was concerned with all the rain we got, days leading up to the race, that the trail would be muddy, but it was not. If anything, it helped to soften the soil. Some areas of the trail were really bouncy.
Imagine hills -- steep hills like this, Imagine running up something like this say times 20.
There were times, when I had to completely stop, put my hands on my knees and my head between my legs to catch my breath. Yes, the thought of quitting crossed my mind. But since I wasn't injured, I didn't see any good reason why I should quit. I started the run, I needed to finish it.
Before I ran, I had a goal of running an 11 minute pace or if the course was "tough," maybe I would run 11:30. LOL!!!!!! I had no idea what was in store for me. Now, I know. Just to give you an idea how different this run was for me compared to road running here's an example.
I ran the Dallas Marathon (26.2 miles a road race) in 4 hours 15 minutes versus this 22 mile trail race at 4 hours 45 minutes.
Now, I know how technical this trail is.
At least the weather was nice. I can't imagine having to run in 90 degree weather. I'm thankful for the cool front.
I'm always pleased when I get a sock line.
This is what I had for breakfast before heading off to the race. Spinach, sweet potatoes and ground turkey. Today, I feel sore. I might go for a walk, later just to loosen up. The girls are in Abilene with the grandparents, so I think Trey and I are going to get out and do some fun things.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
What am I getting myself into? A 40 Mile Trail Race
I'm 99% sure I'll be registering for Rough Creek 40 mile trail race. The race is mid-September and it will be in Glen Rose. My training begins next week! I'm going to aim, at least in the beginning to do back to back long runs on Saturday and Sunday. I'm not sure how realistic that is, but it's what I'm aiming for....I will most likely drop the second long run, towards week 12 or so of training.
2 Training Goals:
1. Build and focus on my endurance (long runs) My average running pace is about to get an ego check.
2. Weekly Hill workouts
It's not called rough creek for nothing. I've heard the trail is a constant up and down hilly terrain.
2 Training Goals:
1. Build and focus on my endurance (long runs) My average running pace is about to get an ego check.
2. Weekly Hill workouts
It's not called rough creek for nothing. I've heard the trail is a constant up and down hilly terrain.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Cowtown 2013 (Tidbits)
I'm blogging about my half marathon experience, but the picture, below is from the 10K start.
This post is a list of my thoughts about the race:
- Perfect PR weather. 38 at the start line and 40 something, when I finished.
- I recognized so many people, spectators and runners. The ft. worth running community is pretty awesome!
-Dakota and I spectated the 10K race on Saturday. So, I thought I'd throw this picture in too. I'm trying to brainwash my kids to be runners, when they grow up, so I can have training buddies.
-Saturday, I got stuck in 5K race traffic. It sucked!!! I was literally in the center of the race -- Imagine a square...the runners were running the parameter and I was in the middle. Ugh!
- I'm more sore today, than yesterday. That seems odd to me. But nothing compares to marathon/ultra soreness.
- Sunday afternoon. Dakota and I did this....
- I also, spent the rest of my afternoon refueling with Hershey kisses. Later, my family took me to Posada's Fine Mexican Restaurant to celebrate. Mmmm, fajitas.
- Next year, I will run the ultra marathon. I had serious runners envy, when I saw the ultra runners and their hard to miss orange bibs. They rubbed it in too because they had special bibs on their back, that said ULTRA. I wanted to yell, stop bragging!!!! but most of them were going faster than me. So....
- I ran with a handheld bottle. I have not been training with one, but surprisingly it didn't annoy me. I had to refill it once at a water station. That was interesting. Most of the water spilled on my shirt, but whatever.
- For fuel during the race, I nursed a GU starting a mile 4 and finished it at mile 10. This is the first time, I've ever done that and I will do it again. Usually, the GU packs are too much for me to digest at once. I stopped at most of the fuel stations, but only for gatorade.
- I got a cramp around mile 8 and wished they had pickle juice, instead of gatorade. Wishful thinking. I just had to run through the cramp...that was tough.
-Who was the young guitarist playing at mile 8? He was rockin' it!
- Who was the terrible band playing when my iPod played Gloriana, I should've kissed you song?
- I noticed when I ran the first mile through Trinity Park, there was a temporary fence all along the course, to keep runners on the road. Last year, I saw a ton of male runners, racing to the bushes to urinate. I'm glad Cowtown fenced the area off. Of course people will urinate in public if they want to and believe me, I saw a few runners do that at different points of the race.
- As much as I hated the location race change from Downtown to Will Rogers Memorial, I have to admit I love the ease of parking, now that the start line is at Will Rogers Memorial!
2012 2013
This post is a list of my thoughts about the race:
- Perfect PR weather. 38 at the start line and 40 something, when I finished.
- I recognized so many people, spectators and runners. The ft. worth running community is pretty awesome!
-Dakota and I spectated the 10K race on Saturday. So, I thought I'd throw this picture in too. I'm trying to brainwash my kids to be runners, when they grow up, so I can have training buddies.
-Saturday, I got stuck in 5K race traffic. It sucked!!! I was literally in the center of the race -- Imagine a square...the runners were running the parameter and I was in the middle. Ugh!
- I'm more sore today, than yesterday. That seems odd to me. But nothing compares to marathon/ultra soreness.
- Sunday afternoon. Dakota and I did this....
- I also, spent the rest of my afternoon refueling with Hershey kisses. Later, my family took me to Posada's Fine Mexican Restaurant to celebrate. Mmmm, fajitas.
- Next year, I will run the ultra marathon. I had serious runners envy, when I saw the ultra runners and their hard to miss orange bibs. They rubbed it in too because they had special bibs on their back, that said ULTRA. I wanted to yell, stop bragging!!!! but most of them were going faster than me. So....
- I ran with a handheld bottle. I have not been training with one, but surprisingly it didn't annoy me. I had to refill it once at a water station. That was interesting. Most of the water spilled on my shirt, but whatever.
- For fuel during the race, I nursed a GU starting a mile 4 and finished it at mile 10. This is the first time, I've ever done that and I will do it again. Usually, the GU packs are too much for me to digest at once. I stopped at most of the fuel stations, but only for gatorade.
- I got a cramp around mile 8 and wished they had pickle juice, instead of gatorade. Wishful thinking. I just had to run through the cramp...that was tough.
-Who was the young guitarist playing at mile 8? He was rockin' it!
- Who was the terrible band playing when my iPod played Gloriana, I should've kissed you song?
- I noticed when I ran the first mile through Trinity Park, there was a temporary fence all along the course, to keep runners on the road. Last year, I saw a ton of male runners, racing to the bushes to urinate. I'm glad Cowtown fenced the area off. Of course people will urinate in public if they want to and believe me, I saw a few runners do that at different points of the race.
- As much as I hated the location race change from Downtown to Will Rogers Memorial, I have to admit I love the ease of parking, now that the start line is at Will Rogers Memorial!
2012 2013
Cowtown Race Proofs & Boston Marathon Talk
Trey wants me to train for the Boston Marathon. He's crazy. I have no desire to run that race. If he thinks training is time-consuming now, he has no idea how time consuming it would be to train, just to qualify for Boston.
In order to be placed in the lottery pool and according to qualify times (to date), I'd have to run a full marathon in 3 hrs 35 mins at a 8:12 pace per mile. Not impossible, but that's not anything I'd like to put myself or my family through at this time in my life. Maybe, I'll change my mind, one day -- but by then the qualifying times, will probably be more challenging.
My good friend Sherri, qualified for Boston a few months ago. When she started running, she was at my level and now she's a speed racer. I'm so proud of her.
Okay, that's enough boston talk, here are my race proofs.
Somewhere between the start and mile 6, I grew an extra pair of arms. AWESOME!
What is the secret to running a PR? Close your eyes and take a nap...it works!
Finish Line.
I grabbed my medal, grabbed some water and immediately started refueling. I didn't want to have a near faint experience like at Dallas. In December when I finished the half marathon, I had to wait in a long line for food and I was most likely dehydrated. It was so humid! This time, I finished and felt tired, but not like death. A big improvement.
In order to be placed in the lottery pool and according to qualify times (to date), I'd have to run a full marathon in 3 hrs 35 mins at a 8:12 pace per mile. Not impossible, but that's not anything I'd like to put myself or my family through at this time in my life. Maybe, I'll change my mind, one day -- but by then the qualifying times, will probably be more challenging.
My good friend Sherri, qualified for Boston a few months ago. When she started running, she was at my level and now she's a speed racer. I'm so proud of her.
Okay, that's enough boston talk, here are my race proofs.
Somewhere between the start and mile 6, I grew an extra pair of arms. AWESOME!
What is the secret to running a PR? Close your eyes and take a nap...it works!
Finish Line.
I grabbed my medal, grabbed some water and immediately started refueling. I didn't want to have a near faint experience like at Dallas. In December when I finished the half marathon, I had to wait in a long line for food and I was most likely dehydrated. It was so humid! This time, I finished and felt tired, but not like death. A big improvement.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Cowtown 2013
This morning, when I set out to run the cowtown half marathon, I did not anticipate running a PR (personal record), but I did. I really wanted to beat my 2:06 time, that I ran at Dallas, a few months ago.
You may notice a lack of pictures of the race, that's because Trey stayed at home with the girls.
Instead of typing all my stats, here are a few stats I pulled from online.
My official Cowtown ChipTime:
You may notice a lack of pictures of the race, that's because Trey stayed at home with the girls.
Instead of typing all my stats, here are a few stats I pulled from online.
My official Cowtown ChipTime:
This is probably the most consist pace, I've ever ran.
This next snapshot is from my Nike+ GPS watch. Too bad I can't always run this pace. 8 miles in a little over an hour, I'd take that!
Here is the Elevation Chart. Mile 9 was terrible. A climb of 100 ft! The only thing that got me through that hill was knowing that I'd see the Lululemon Crew and EnduraLAB folks at the top.
The hill from hell! I've ran it several times, so I knew what to expect. It didn't kill me, but dang it was tough!
This is what I listened to on shuffle. Just when I needed it, my power song came on -----> The Neighbourhood - Sweater weather.
On my race bib it says I've ran Cowtown 6 years in a row. When I got my race pack, I mentioned that to a volunteer and he said, "Oh, go over to the VIP area, they have a special gift for you." Okay.....
The volunteer, told me my name was not on the list -- but for some reason there were a handful of people whose names didn't show up on "the list." He then handed me an over the shoulder backpack with a graphic of the star medal on it. It's really nice!
Once I got home, I put it all together.
I ran 6 years in a row, however in 2009, I ran the 10K. Cowtown did not give 10K racers (at least back then) a finisher medal. The star medal is intended for half marathoners and up - distance runners. I was so bummed when I realized. However, if I still want to complete my star, I can purchase a "contributor medal" for $100. The proceeds go to the C.AL.F. program, a program that supports youth to run. I'm really tempted to do so. It won't say finisher on it, it will just have the year. I'm not a complete liar, I ran that year!!! :)
I can also purchase a plaque to display the star. I really want to get it. Perhaps this could be my Birthday present from Trey????? (pretty, please!)
I have more to say about the race, but that's all I have for now. I'm so tired. Goodnight, friends!
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