Me Too...

There are as many different reasons to run as there are runners; and there are seemingly just as many reasons not to run - until you do.  Often times people hear about my running (or sometimes even ask) but instantly counter with "I hate running" - well, me too; or "I have bad knees" - me too; "I'm too busy" - me too....the list goes on.  You've got to want to get out the door for one reason or the other - and that reason is different for everyone - but once you give it a shot you'll discover so many more reasons to run than there are not to run. 

"I hate running."  I've completed 46 half marathons in 34 states since March 2010 and to this day I still have trouble dragging my butt out the door for that first step of a run.  I can lay my clothes, iPod, and Garmin out, pack a gym bag, set my alarm, and go to bed with ALL the motivation and good intentions in the world to run early in the morning - and 9 out of 10 times I wake up in the middle of the night, think "oh, that ain't happening!" and reset that alarm for my normal time.  Running in general is hard work and in this day and age where we seek to make things easier/more comfortable most people "hate" things that require work.  You will get sweaty, you will find it difficult, you will get sore...you will work.  It's easy to hate working.  But you'll also discover an endorphin rush, increased cardio fitness, a host of health benefits, and likely a firmer lower body to boot - all of which are equally easy to love!  As with everything else in life you have to take the good to get the bad...you may hate disciplining your kids, but you love that they are well behaved (most of the time); you may hate your morning commute, but you love being able to pay the bills; - so, hate running...just do it anyway. 

"I have bad knees."  At 19 years old I was told the only way I'd ever get relief from my knee pain was an experimental surgery with a 10% success rate.  I declined.  I knew "this" pain and could live with it.  When I first started running I didn't need a Garmin...I knew INSTANTLY if I did over 3 miles...my right knee told me and then reminded me for days not to do it again.  I'm not a doctor and I'm by NO means advising anyone to do something that causes them pain; but often times, the most comment knee pains don't come from the knees.  Take the time to find out why your knees (or whatever else) are hurting and you'll likely be able to run without the pain.  It took me YEARS to discover that a combination of tight IT bands and a weak right glute were actually what caused my knee pain and guess what - no surgery required and my knees no longer hurt!  A foam roller ($15) and a little added attention to the right side in the gym and I have to check the Garmin to know how far I've gone.  So, your knees hurt...start with having a running store fit you for shoes (HUGE difference when you run in the right shoes...I could do an entire post about that alone), do some stretching and foam rolling, see a chiropractor, or ask your doctor for his input into possible causes - likely the knee pain is a symptom of an underlying problem, not the problem itself.  Bottomline, don't just shrug and say it hurts so I won't do it, find out why it hurts.

"I'm too busy."  Sorry, but cry me a river...aren't we all too busy now-a-days?  I work full time.  I have four kids.  I cook, clean, shuttle kids to practices, show up to cheer them on for games, attend awards banquets, schedule and run meetings, attend social events with friends/co-workers, ANDDDDDD.....I surf, quilt, scrapbook, workout, and run!  Bottomline, you make time for the things that are important to you.  If you want something bad enough you'll find a way to make it happen - so be busy...just go for a run anyway. 

Running is about so much more than pounding the pavement and offers so much more in return than the race medals.  You may start out of curiosity or to lose weight, maybe just to clear your head; but chances are you'll find new friends, improved health, and a host of other benefits that keep you coming back - me too.   

The Hardest Part of Training

What is the hardest part of training? 

When I first decided to sign up for a half marathon, even with all of my motivation and enthusiasm, the hardest part was often getting out the door.  The training plan I chose dictated 5 days of running each week with Mondays and Fridays as rest days.  The first Tuesday was no problem.  Wednesday I was not overly excited, but headed out.  By Thursday my shins were sore and the tiny muscles in my feet were tight, but I headed out knowing I got a break the next day.  Saturday came all too quickly and I forced myself out the door for "an easy three miler" knowing I'd almost completed a full week of training without missing a workout.  Sunday I got out easier, simply looking forward to mentally checking the box on the week.  As the weeks piled up it got harder and harder to make myself hit the road.  I used every trick in the book, but it required extreme motivation and constantly reminding myself of my end goal to keep going.  I'm one to be motivated by progress so I maintained an elaborate spreadsheet of my training runs with as much data as I could think of - date, distance, pace, time of day, temperature, type of course, average heart rate, etc.  Seeing my pace go down, distance go up, and heart rate go down was sometimes what fueled me.  I was always glad I did, I eventually began to enjoy my runs, but even then just getting out the door was the hardest part of my early training.

After I completed my first event I knew I wanted to run more so my training needed to continue.  I even signed up for future events so I had the goal in sight.  I soon found the hardest part of training was maintaining motivation and consistency.  Thoroughout the next two years I cycled through periods where I would buckle down and train for a specific race or goal, only to be inflated by the end result to a point that I found it easy to slip into complacency.  By the fall of 2012, even with 32 half marathons complete, the hardest part of training was still just getting out the door. 

I then set new goals and a new training plan.  I still struggled at times to get out the door, but not nearly as much as previously.  As the next few months rolled along and I plowed through 14 additional half marathons I found the hardest part of training to be finding the time for everything else in life.  I'd finally gotten to a point in my running where training was a priority and did not seem as much of a burden!  And then injury set in...

Now, the hardest part of my training is that I can't.  Sidelined by injury, it has been nearly five weeks since my last race and nearly ten weeks since my last training run.  I've put in three weight lifting workouts in the last nine weeks as well - again, sidelined by injury.  As I recently complained via social media about my inability to train a comment by a fellow runner really hit home.  He encouraged me to view this as part of my training - the mental part - reminding me that putting in the time to rest now would result in improved health and abilities over time vs. ignoring the doctor and plowing through workouts which will inevitably cause further damage down the road.  So now, the hardest part of my training is no longer getting out the door...it's not being able to get out the door.  As my friends wind up their 2012 race calendars and post their exploits at various races I have a twinge of jealous, as I reflect on my times from the fall and know that with each passing week they are slipping further away I have a bit of pain, and as the stress of daily life piles on with the holiday I have an overwhelming desire to leave it all on the road/track; but in the long run this is all a part of my training - right now the hardest part - and I have to respect that. 

Whatever you find to be the hardest part of training at the moment, do what it takes to push past it...even if just today...it may still be hard but you'll be glad you pushed through. 

Buyer/Runner Beware

Prior to signing up for any USRA event, please take a moment to Google the man in charge, Dean Reinke.   After reading a bit of what you find, make your own decision as to whether to run the race or not.  I am currently dealing with the man with regards to a past event and suffice it to say I know what my decision for future events will be. 

I'm not out to 'bash' anyone; I just wish someone had given me this advice before the event and I would be remiss if I did not share. 

Perhaps a Little Over Zealous...

I quit hitting the gym in late October and focused on healing the foot/ankle while knocking out my remaining 2012 races.  I stopped running with the exception of my races at the same time.  After Miami, I took some time off entirely to heal.  I'd intended on going back to lifting for upper body and doing some swimming and elliptical to maintain cardio while the foot healed.  The fall/injured wrist squashed that.  So, last week I realized I felt horrid and NEEDED to work out, but didn't want to further injure the foot.  I decided to get my lifting sessions in and just be careful that leg day did not do anything to injure the foot.  Well, the week got crazy and before I knew it Thursday rolled around and I hadn't hit the gym at all.  Thursday evening I headed for my gym and knocked out a killer back, bi, and shoulder session followed by a double abs session.  It felt great to be back and I was surprised at how well the wrist held up.  I'd lifted lighter than I previously would but still heavier than I thought the wrist would allow and I was ok.  I intended on getting in my leg session on Friday...that didn't happen.  So, Saturday, determined to make sure I hit all of my workouts for the week, I headed down to the gym and tackled a killer leg workouts.  As with Thursday, I lifted lighter than I usually would, but it'd been so long I knew I would feel it.  My abs were still hurting from Thursday, but I knocked out what would have been Friday's ab session anyway.  Nearly spent but determined to get in my chest and tri session, I headed upstairs and sucked down a GU, then went back to power through the rest of my workout.  I finished feeling great and headed upstairs to shower.  I knew I was in trouble when my arms wouldn't lift high enough to wash my hair without a great deal of effort.  I'm typically a person that DMOS doesn't set in until Day 2 after a workout...this was minutes after the workout!  Sunday morning everything was tight...today...well, let's just say I shouldn't sit still for long, I will be stretching a lot this evening, and I'm not so sure how I'm going to get in tonight's back, bi, shoulders, and ab session - but I will do it!  Perhaps I won't be quite so over zealous with this workout though....not that I'm complaining!

Pipe Dream?

Two days ago the opportunity to travel to Japan for two weeks at the end of Jan came up.  True to form, the absolute first thing I did was search for races!  I found two 1/2s and 3 fulls that could be possible during the timeframe (of course none would be easy logistically as far as travel, but when has that ever stopped me?).  While I'm not really cozy with the idea of doing a full I know I could, but I'd prefer a half.  Partially because it's what I'm trained for at the moment, but also because it would count towards my Sun status for the Half Fanatics! 

There is much to be worked out before the trip even occurs and there is much I'd like to do while there if it does happen; however a race is second only to seeing Nagoya (my grandfather was stationed there in 1946 and it held a lot of meaning for him - and therefore for me as well).  At this point a race may be a pipe dream...there are a lot of obstacles, travel being the least of them:  all of the websites are only in Japanese, what little I'm getting through translating software indicates registration closed in October for many, etc; but I'm not willing to throw in the towel just yet. 

Stay tuned to find out if my first race of 2013 will be in Japan!  (and wish me luck!!! Say a little prayer!!!  or refer me to any Japanese speaking friends for assistance!!!!  I'll take whatever help I can get!)

Are You Living or Taking Up Space?

My son frequently tells me if you aren't living on the edge you're taking up too much space.  As a mother, that tears my nerves up.  But, admittedly, I get hurt more frequently than him!  And this year it seems as though I've been especially accident/injury prone.  So, you'll likely find it no surprise that I'm again all jacked up. 

While helping my sister move over Thanksgiving weekend, our kids started packing the U-Haul...they apparently aren't great Tetris players because there was PLENTY of wasted space.  So, throughout the day I found myself in the back of the truck climbing on top of things, rearranging, shoving things into every little space I could find.  I'd spent a good deal of time walking on a bookshelf and moving things around, stepping over to the pinball machine and back.  So, at the end of the day with just a few things remaining, I held one end of a futon while my sister held the other.  I was standing on the bookshelf again and stepped backwards (without looking) to the pinball machine....only I'd moved about 3' to the left and there was nothing there.  For the record, air walking in a UHaul while holding a futon is not the best idea. 

When I could get up we finished packing the truck.  I had been standing where the rocker is here and ended up on my back on the box of picture frames and mirrors where the weird patio table frame is in this picture.  Somehow not a single picture or mirror broken.  I got lucky in that my injuries were soft tissue so they'll heal fairly quickly.  In the meantime I'm out of the gym because of the arm and I'm still recovering from the foot injuries so no running.  Needless to say I'm not a happy camper and am worried about losing progress.  I'm hoping to be back in the gym and pool next week.

In the meantime, while friends comment on how accident prone or clumsy I am, I've taken stock...No, I'm not accident prone, and I'm not particular clumsy (I was actually awarded "Most Graceful" in my ballet classes as a child).  I simply live life to the fullest.  I don't stop and think things through or worry about what might happen, I live.  I go full throttle through life, enjoying every minute of it, and when I hit the wall, I hit it hard.  Then I take the time to recover and go again.  I may not live on the edge, but I'm definitely not just taking up space either.  Go put in a few miles for me!!

Does Pain Equal Suffering?

I headed to Miami set on completing my 23rd Half Marathon in 2012 and my 10th Rock N Roll event in 2012 to achieve Mercury status in the Half Fanatics and Rock Idol status for RNR.  Despite the foot injuries and the pain that running had become due to them, there was no doubt that I would cross the finish line....I'm too hard headed to give up...and just in case I caved, George had promised not only to run with me but to carry me across the line if he had too.  My journey through running has changed so much since I started training in the fall of 2009....even since my races throughout 2010 & early 2011.  While my early running was focused on my goals, performance, and achievements, along the way as I met more runners it somehow morphed.  I still have my personal goals, but Richard O'Brien captured the essence of the experience when he said, "Running is not, as it so often seems, only about what you did in your last race or about how many miles you ran last week. It is, in a much more important way, about community, about appreciating all the miles run by other runners, too."  Whether it is my friends worrying about my injuries and their impact on my run/goals or me cheering on another friend as they work towards their goals, we all genuinely care about why each of us is on this journey and helping each other reach their goals.  When one of us is having a bad day, someone is there to carry us along; when we are having a good day, we'll do the same for another.  I went to Miami knowing this was it for 2012 for me...I wouldn't see these folks again for some time.  My next registered race is not until March 30th 2013.  I hope to add races before then, but I'd committed to taking the time to heal before making any further plans.  I was also intend on just finishing the race and having fun doing so.  And I was excited about running with George!  Despite being one of my best friends and having met through running, we had never actually run a race together!  The startline was beautiful on race morning.

Seeing my friends made it even more special!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We headed to the start line and got into our corral.  David had run a HILLY 50K the day before so I was worried about him as much as he was worried about my foot. 

In no time we were off.

The first mile wasn't too terrible.  We joked and ran.  Beth briefly joined us and passed us just as quickly.

The pain begin to set in and I began to consider walking, despite how early it was.  I was in pain and saw no point in suffering through it.  I knew David would encourage me to walk - worried that I'd do more damage.  I knew George would let me walk if I said I needed to.  And just as I was about to, Jim joined us.  Jim would NEVER fault anyone for needing to walk, but I couldn't let myself walk with him being there.  How could I, when Beth was so far ahead of us despite here battle with drop foot?  If you are unfamiliar with drop foot or Beth's efforts, please check out her blog at: http://getbackuptoday.blogspot.com/

I kept going.  The pain was only really bad when the road angled...so I stayed in the center to avoid the crowing and muttered when there were hills or exit ramps, that way I wasn't suffering.  George and Jim carried me through the first 6 miles with George entertaining us and Jim's presence keeping me honest.  As I've stated 100 times over, the first 5 miles are always my hardest and today was no different.  One of my favorite running quotes is by James Dyson: "What I've learned from running is that the time ot push hard is when you're hurting like crazy and you want to give up.  Success is often just around the corner."  If I could just remember this every run from miles 3-5 I'd be fine!  As we turned off the Julia Tuttle Parkway my foot was no longer painful and I was settling into a good rhythm and enjoying the race.  I know I wouldn't have made it there on this particular day without George and Jim though; and I can't thank them enough for getting me through.

The 'middle miles' of the course were rather uneventful.  Jim dropped off during this time.  George socialized and met new folks.  I plugged along, thankful the pain was gone and enjoying George's antics. 

Overall the course was nice.  The views were great and other than a few bridges it was fairly flat.  There were ample water stops.  There were stretches without crowd support but there were also stretches with great crowd support.  If you NEED constant crowd support/energy, perhaps this isn't the race for you, but if you can get yourself the occassional mile or two without cheering then give this one a shot!

By the time we climbed the exit ramp to head back to Miami Beach, George and I had hit our silliness threshold.  The fun was just beginning.  For the first half mile on the return we just laughed and ran, enjoying each other's company.

Somewhere around mile 9 - 10, we got goofy. 

We thoroughly enjoyed the remaining miles and crossed the finish line together in 2:11:01, smiling.  After finishing we met a new friend, Cat, who had enjoyed our antics over the miles.

 I received my Rock Idol and we met up with friends to celebrate and discuss our accomplishments and upcoming challenges. 

For me, this marked the beginning of my rest and recovery - no running, no pressure on the foot - I intended to continue lifting weights and get my cardio via swimming or pool jogging....though I wasn't looking forward to it and knew I'd suffer fitness losses and running withdraws!  But at the moment I just enjoyed my friends and the fact that I'd met my goals for 2012 -0 AND finished Miami feeling good. 

"Pain is inevitable.  Suffering is optional." - Haruki Murakami

Driven or Stupid?

Despite the excitment with which I'd added my last 5 races in 3 weeks to 2012 and the determination to reach my goals for 2012, as I headed to the start line in Huntsville, AL for the final weekend in my quad double and completion of my 34th state I was feeling anything but excited.  I was exhausted, physically, emotionally, mentally...it had been a long few months and I was wearing down.  My ankle was not much better and I was beginning to have pain throughout my foot when running (I attributed it to my weird gait trying to compensate for the ankle).  Despite having been so diligent about my training throughout September and most of October, the ankle had brought that to a screeching hault and for the last couple of weeks I'd simply run the races and gone home to a little rolling, no workouts, no running, nothing.  I arrived at the startline early and parked.  It was 40 degrees outside yet was supposed to climb into the 70s during the race...not a pleasant race to prepare for.  I set an alarm on my phone and dosed off for a quick nap.  Once the alarm went off I headed to the startline. 

Huntsville was not my first choice for AL, but it had worked out that I could do this one and get a double and a state, so I had.  I'd come here to run AL, not experience it.  But I have to admit I found the small town charm of the race endearing.  It started just in front of a church parking lot with the finish area set up in the parking lot.  There were 980 runners (the event was capped at 1000).

As I walked down to the start line I was immediately struck with the lack of organization.  There was an older gentleman with a bullhorn barking for everyone to get to the start but there were no corrals and no one was placing themselves by time...just crowding in the front or heading to the "way" back.  All the while the Army Materiel Command's band played.

It was Veteran's Day and there were quite a few veterans in the crowd.  As start time approached the church's pastor offered up a prayer, we were then led in the Pledge of Allegiance, stood for the National Anthem, and then all sang America the Beautiful together.  It was definitely an interesting experience and I enjoyed it (felt like bible school with Mrs. Kathryn back in the day!), but if you aren't patriotic or Christian consider yourself warned and don't be offended.  Yes, this is America and you have rights, but this race is on Veteran's Day and it's about celebrating the folks that fought to give you those rights....and it just happens that the fellow leading the festivities and the race director were both veteran's so if this is how they chose to start their race, it's their right....you have the right to chose not to participate.  I'll step off my soap box now...

After the singing wound down, we had a few minutes in the corrals before the start.

Then we were off.  The crowd was congested and the lack of corral placement hadn't helped, folks struggled to get around each other without falling or tripping - it was chaos.  For all of the small race charm, there is still something to be said for large race organization!  The first 3 miles were a loop through a neighborhood and the first 1/4 mile seemed to be straight up hill.  I felt like crap.  My ankle and shins were already burning and I was already losing the mental battle.  I know once I push myself to mile 5 I'm fine, truthfully I'm usually good somewhere between miles 3 and 5, but those first miles always are a mental battle for me.  Today, I chose to not fight the battle.  I walked several times during the first 2 1/2 miles, considering the concept of actually running a couple of miles to warm up before races - then I realized I was starting to sound like a runner!  As we came back towards the church the crowd of runners had thinned out a bit, making it a more pleasant run.  I was parched and realized the first water stop for the race was at the 3 mile mark (a little late into the race compared to most), from there they were spaced 2 miles apart.  Overall there was not a lot of crowd support/energy on the course, but it was not completely void of such.  There were pockets of people and everyone was really nice.  I was still favoring the ankle a bit and was starting to feel it in my knee.  I kept my eyes peeled on the course for road hazards to avoid an additional turn/injury, but apparently not good enough.  I felt it just before I saw it, but I'd struck a random reflector on a speed bump and the bad ankle was rolling.  Determined to not do permanent damage to the ankle I rolled with it.  I decided I'd fall if need be, but I wasn't damaging that ankle anymore.  Luckily I managed to stay upright and didn't feel any pulling or tearing, so I kept going.  I did, however, note to self - speedbumps in the neighborhoods on the course have 4 rows of reflectors staggered across them...would've been nice if there had been some warning about this somewhere, so consider this your warning if you decide to run this race!

As we came out of the subdivisions and hit the 5 mile mark and next water station there was a long stretch of straight roadway that seemingly went on forever.  I made a mental note that on the return when the sun was up and beating down on this it was going to be miserable.  I also made a mental note that knowing this part was an out and back I just had a 5K out and a 5K back to this point...

Once I'd rolled the ankle I'd decided to make this a 2:10 day...I seemed to be on course for that.  After the long straight away we turned a corner and the scenery was really pretty...the heat played with my head...it's not this warm when the foilage is out back home! 

Though the picture does it no justice, the trees ahead were just vibrant reds and yellows.  Right around mile 6 we turned onto a bike/walking path down the greenway.  It was also pretty scenery, and again the picture does it no justice.

I was feeling ok by now with all of the foot and ankle pain pushed out of my head and just kept pulling along.  Just past mile 8 we turned around to head back.  I watched for the reflectors when we got back to the neighborhood and soon enough I was turning into the church parking lot and heading up the slight hill to the finish.  I pushed at the last minute to ensure I'd met my 2:10 goal...final time 2:09:55.

Alabama complete it was time to grab my shirt, medal, and head to the Y for a quick shower before hitting the airport to San Antonio! 

Of course, by the time I got to San Antonio the ankle was bothering me quite a bit (even with 800mg of ibuprofen); and I started wondering if all of it was worth the wear and tear.  But bottom line, I'd set specific goals and worked really hard to achieve them...I was 2 races away from meeting them all and was not about to throw in the towel now.   Dean Karnazes quote rang in my ears:  "Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up."  Dinner with Denise; a quick drink with David, Raf, Krissy, Dan, and Tim; and it was off to bed to do it all again the next day!

Denise and I were up and moving with no problems in the morning.  We headed over to the start line and met up with Raf, Dan, and Tim. 

We joked around and dropped our bags then headed to the start.  We worried for a bit when Krissy and David hadn't shown up but they came rolling in 5 minutes before the start and we grabbed a group pic before going to the corrals.

Denise wanted to go sub 2 today (it would be her first), but I didn't think I had it in me.  We started together and I found very early on I didn't.  She started to hang back with me but I told her to go for her time, knowing that if she didn't get it today she would have to add another race in December to do so in 2012.  She went ahead.  I was struggling with pain in the ankle and foot when around mile 2 I suddenly felt/heard a weird snap/pop sound and had excruciating pain shooting down the top of my foot and into my toes.  I started walking immediately.  The next few miles were a torturous mix of walking and running.  I kept waiting for Raf and Dan to catch up with me...I knew they planned to take it slow and easy and I wanted to join them.  They apparently took it REALLY slow and easy and had a great time...but they never did catch me.  Around mile 5 I saw David...we stayed on step for about a 1/4 mile and just in front was Sherry.  She joined us and at the next water stop David fell off.  I told Sherry about the foot and she stayed with me - and quite literally got me through - until the split.  We took a couple of walking breaks when it got bad, but for the most part she kept me pushing on and engaged.  Just before mile 11 the course split and she headed left with the full, I thanked her and turned right.

Like so many other runners, she knew I needed the support so she was there...we tend to do that for folks, regardless of if we know them or not.  Maybe it's paying it forward because we know we'll need it one day, maybe it's just because we enjoy the sport and meeting new folks, but no one is a stranger on the course.  As was the case with this particular day...in addition to Sherry getting me through, as we sat at the finish line checking everyone's splits and waiting for them to come in we started worrying about David because his times were looking bad.  Krissy went back out on the course to find him.  She intended to bring him in over the last few miles thinking he was struggling.  It turned out he had picked up someone at mile 14 that was injured and was helping him through.  If you're going for a PR on a particular day that's one thing, but if you are  just out to run and have fun and see someone struggling...strike up a conversation, help pull them through a few miles.

I finished the last two miles with only 1 walk break and insulting one person and snapping at another - it wasn't my best day.  At the last water stop a guy asked me if I'd run Saint Louis.  I said I had and he commented that he had been behind me at mile 8 but couldn't keep up, then he added "I'm obviously doing MUCH better today!"  Without even thinking I responded, "Nah, I'm sucking today."  As soon as the words were out of my mouth I realized how it sounded!  I had no idea what his time was in STL and he may well have been having a great day in San Antonio, but how rude of me to take the wind out of his sails!  I tried to apologize but we soon parted ways.  As I passed the 13 mile mark we had to climb a hill then turn a corner to cross the finish.  Any other day the hill would not have been as issue and I'd been running since Sherry left me.  Just as I started up the hill the angle on the foot shot pain through it.  I started walking.  Just before the top of the hill a young, perky blonde easily strode by and encouraged me saying, "Don't walk now!  You've got this!  Come on!"  Yanking my ear bud out I spewed back, "This is my 8th 1/2 in 4 weeks and my foot is injured.  I'm fine with walking!" She apologized and headed towards the finish.  I felt bad for being so harsh and made a point of finding her and apologizing afterwards, then headed to medical for ice. 

With my foot wrapped in ice I headed back and found Denise had indeed gotten her sub 2!  I'm glad she hadn't waiting for me...I barely pulled 2:17:39.  We all visited for a while.  When I finally took the ice off of my foot the top of it was already swollen up and bruised.  I called the orthopedist the next morning for the next available appointment.

While we waited for everyone I did have the chance to meet John Bingham.

And catch the headliner concert...Jo Dee Messina...who hopped on stage to perform after running the 1/2 herself!

As for the race itself, there was plenty of energy and crowd support.  The course was interesting with plenty to look at.  In addition to running past the Alamo there were beautiful homes and interesting architecture

and a few smiles along the way...I especially found this sign humorous given that it was on the local newspaper office.

There was also ample course support with plenty of water stops, misting stations,

cooling stations, sponges, and GU.  No doubt it is a HOT race, but that is taken into account.  If you are smart about it you shouldn't have a problem with the heat given the Race Director's efforts.

That said, no amount of race director planning could've taken into account my foot.  I was driven to accomplish my goals...and now had 1 race remaining to do so...and looking at my foot and trying to walk could not help but wonder if running on it in a week would be one of the stupidest things I'd ever done.  Time (and the orthopedist) would tell...but I was not willing to give up just yet.

Why I Run - Confirmed by Another Double Weekend

There are as many different reasons to run as there are people running - and just as many excuses not to.  And admittedly, I am sometimes on either end of the spectrum, either running to the extreme or not running at all.  I can offer up many of the same excuses as anyone else when I'm not running - mostly lack of time, but in all actuality, we make the time for the things that are important to us.  But when it comes to having many things that are important to us and not enough hours to possibly squeeze it all in, how do we decide what falls by the wayside?   I often times have people tell me they don't know how I do it when they catch just a glimpse of my typical day.  I realize I am busier than most, but honestly, I don't know how to slow down!  Even when I try, it seems there's always too much to do and too little time to do it all; yet I somehow manage to check the boxes.  Mostly this is due to my organization skills.  I firmly believe if everything could be put into a tabbed out 3 ring binder or a spreadsheet the world would be a much better place.  My running friends frequently chuckle over my travel folders for race trips.  But bottom line between binders, spreadsheets, folders, and planners I'm able to fit more into my day and ultimately keep running without things falling between the cracks.

One may wonder if I'm so crazy busy at all times why I would take the extra time to run.  The races themselves eat up valuable weekends that I could be "catching up" around the house, relaxing, etc; and the training eats up a good chunk of my afternoons/evening during the week.  Plus race travel even takes time away from work at times putting me further behind.  I sometimes wonder the same thing.  Days when I roll into the office at 4:30 or 5AM just to get caught up (or ahead) because I know I'll be out Friday for race travel...evenings when I'm exhausted and scrambling to get dinner together, feeling guilty that I took 45 mins in the gym vs. catching up on laundry or spending time with the kids...weekends when I'm on a plane and realizing I haven't had a weekend to just sit home in seemingly forever...yep, it can get a little overwhelming.  Adding 5 races in 3 weeks to my 2012 schedule has definitely upped the ante on all of those feelings and consumed quite a bit of my time as well, but when I made the decision to do so it was to achieve specific goals.  As the first of those three weekends approached I couldn't help but wonder if perhaps I'd pushed too far and gotten caught up in the possibilities/achievements without really thinking it through. 

Hurricane Sandy hadn't helped.  Being stuck out of town for airport closures had cost me a day at work.  Knowing I'd be out Friday and a few hours Thursday for a doctor's appointment, and having a lot to get done, I came in EARLY Wednesday and Thursday.  This, of course, helped me keep my head above water at work but left me exhausted and barely able to get things done at home.  I'd finally admitted the ankle was bad enough to need some rest, so I cancelled all workouts this week - which bought me a little time to unpack, do laundry, and repack before the weekend.  But with everything going on and only 2 days to squeeze a week into I found myself wondering if it was worth it.  Friday morning I was up and on the road to Savannah EARLY, tired but excited for my weekend with George.  Somewhere around South Carolina I started struggling...anyone that knows me knows that when I have sugar you could peel me off of the ceiling...needing the energy...I wanted cherryheads.  Problem is, they are tough to find...searched the area for a Five Below via my phone (they always have them), no luck.  Finally, needing gas anyway, I spotted a small Exxon station...they are about the only other place I can find them, and not always.  This time...pay dirt!  Now, when I say I wanted cherryheads...most people buy a box or two...I buy them by the case!

Gas tank full & mission accomplished, I was on my way.  I only had 4 boxes...but I was awake! :)  I met George at the airport and we headed to the expo for the Rock N Roll Savannah Marathon and Half Marathon.  As soon as I walked into the expo the energy levels were back up and any questions of whether I should have stayed home were quickly vanishing.  It was great to see my running friends and reconnect as well as to meet new people with shared interests/goals.  Leaving the expo we encountered a fellow in a wheelchair who had just picked up his packet.  With his bright blue hair, George couldn't resist the opportunity to compare do's.  We soon were discussing his athletic goals for the race.  I couldn't help but noticing his upperbody did not have the appearance of a typical trained wheelchair athlete.  This was quickly explained when he told us the chair was a new addition, he had broken his leg only weeks earlier and had been training to run, not roll, the marathon.  George quickly offered up his contact information and volunteered to push him if needed - just another example of the kindness within the running community; we all have our own goals but are always willing to set them aside to help others reach their goals.  Through the brief encounter/conversation we learned he was completing the marathon in honor of his daughter who he had recently lost to Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).  He had a friend running with to help if needed, but was determined to complete the race for her - another example of the determination of runners to meet their specific goals.    I had never heard of PKD but encourage everyone to look into it and see how they can help, I have already begun my research!

After the expo, we checked into our hotel, and headed out to find dinner.  We found an amazing little restaurant (Skyler's Restaurant) - and I say found because you literally have to search it out!  This place is tucked away in the basement of a little Inn, but it was just fabulous; great folks, great service; and a wonderful atmosphere.  By now the appreciation of the opportunity to explore new places and experience new things coupled with the selflessness and camaraderie of my running friends as well as the determination and drive of others had all but wiped away any concerns of my to do list waiting back home.  After dinner, David joined us and we enjoyed an evening on the Savannah waterfront and many laughs, before getting a few hours of sleep and heading to the startline. 

Race morning felt a little odd to me...we were a bit rushed and didn't have our usual time to prep/hang out, so it may have been that...I couldn't really put a finger on it.  The energy was there, the startline was well organized, I just was feeling weird.  The orthopedist had confirmed my ankle injury from St Louis was a severe sprain and advised against running, but as usual, I didn't listen.  I didn't know how the day would pan out, but I'd run 3 events on it so far so I saw no need to baby it just because I had an official diagnosis.  As we entered the corrals David and I had unspokenly fallen into running together.

Just before our corral was to start he said Allison wanted to run with us as well.  As we started he was slowing up, looking for her...I didn't mean to leave him, but I wanted to start with my time in mind and see how the ankle let me go so I didn't wait either.  I kept waiting for him to catch up, but by 1/4 of a mile into it I began hoping he wouldn't.  Not that I didn't want to run with him, but I was in such pain from the ankle that I couldn't stop the tears from rolling down my cheeks and I really didn't want to explain/defend my decision to run.  I was lost in my thoughts for a good portion of this race.  Savannah the previous year had been a really good race for me and a breakthrough in my running.  As posted on here, I'd run it with Rafael; and it had converted me to someone who liked to run with friends.  The course had changed this year but Rafael was still with me for many miles on this day.  After about two miles the tears stopped and the pain subsided.  I knew I was running strong and I had a shot at another sub 2, but I was fighting myself mentally the entire time.  I also knew another turn on the bad ankle could spell disaster so I was intently focused on the ground just ahead of me, cautiously chosing my foot placement as I went.  Before I knew it I'd pushed past not only the ankle pain, but also the mental demons/doubts, and made my way to the glorious middle miles where you are in the zone, feeling good, and enjoying the run. 

As much as I'd enjoyed the Rock N Roll Savannah the previous year, the Competitor Group had really improved it this year.  The people of Savannah are amazing and were out in mass supporting the event and the energy on the course was amazing.  The course changes made for a much better run, removing much of the "dead zone" from the early miles of the previous race and replacing them with the beauty of Savannah.  Regardless of the fact that I've completed the state, this is a race I will return to and a class act event.

Somewhere around mile 11 I started struggling with heat/hydration a bit.  I was close enough that if I gave into it I would lose my sub 2; yet far enough away that if I didn't let off the gas I may find myself being loaded into an ambulance.  So began my mental blogging for the weekend - you see, 13.1 miles is a long time to think...you solve the world's problems on some runs, on others you just enjoy the experience, and sometimes you share your infinite wisdom (which nearly always dissipates as the endorphins wear off)...I was sharing that wisdom today, mentally of course, but in the form of a blog post - explaining to you folks how while you may find me insane for all of my running I'm actually really in tune with my body and won't push past a safe point...maybe someday I'll share the full extent of this mental blog in an actual post, but I doubt it will ever be as eloquent or understandable as it was during that endorphin fueled mental post.  ;)  Just before mile 12 I came upon Sean Sweeney, who confirmed my mental blog post when he let me know he was turning his intended full into the half today due to an injury and a really off day - see, we know our limits!  And despite having let off the gas a little during mile 12 because of my growing concern over the fact that I was beginning to have chills and was no longer sweating, I pushed my limits for the last 1/4 - 1/2 mile when I realized I was going to be able to sub 2.  As I crossed the line I was a little disappointed in myself for not having pushed just a bit harder...I was 6 seconds shy of a PR, finishing in 1:58:37.  However, given that I'd come that close with an injury and in weather about 10 - 15 degrees warmer than my PR day...I was good with it!  I headed to the finish line festivities to wait for friends.

I caught up with old friends, again met new friends, and when George finished his full we headed back to the hotel to shower and check out.  Once there, as the endorphins faded, my ankle was so painful I couldn't put any weight on it...made me a little worried about tomorrow's run, but it had 18 or so hours to recover.  David had considered joining us after ING got cancelled, but had a rough day in Savannah and decided to give his body a rest, so we hit the road - destination: Raleigh.

My co-pilot was a little worn out from his effort that day...

Which led to a boring few hours initially.  The quiet in the car and my own exhaustion had me reaching for cherryheads again.  Soon enough we were approaching North Carolina and George was awake.  Knowing he'd never driven the I95 corridor, I decided to stop at South of the Border...just so he could say he had...and to break up the drive.  A little goofing off, a snack, and a potty break and we were back on the road.

We arrived in Raleigh, checked into the hotel, and decided tonight would be a good time to catch up on sleep.  Another good thing about race weekends...if I were home I would never consider going to bed so early as my to do list is so long, but here on the road, where I can't check boxes anyway...perfect time to catch up on sleep!  And that we did!  I slept like a rock and when it was time to wake up, I still could've slept longer - but having specific goals tied to ALL of the races, I was up and ready.  Walking to the start line my ankle hurt worse than it had running the day before...that started the mental doubts.  Once at the start line there was a bit of confusion/hassle which led to me feeling rushed vs. relaxed and ready to run.  As I typically try to give feedback on the races I run so others can make the decision as to whether they would like to run it, I feel I need to elaborate on this, but I'm also torn because of the circumstances surrounding it, so full disclose here and trying really hard to be fair -

The Raleigh City of Oaks Half Marathon/Marathon does NOT offer race day packet pick up.  Knowing this and the fact that we were running Savannah the day before, we were concerned that we would not make the 6PM cut off for packet pickup on Saturday (and we indeed would not have made it).  Therefore I had emailed the race director and explained the situation.  I'd asked if we could possibly arrange for race day pick up, or at the very least if perhaps I could pick up early on Friday (pick up didn't start until 4PM and if I waited long enough to hit that pick up, I'd miss pick up in Savannah).  He agreed to a Friday 11AM pick up as he was strict about no race day pick up.  This added a little over an hour to my drive to Savannah as I had to head off of the highway to the west about 45 minutes to get to the pick up location, but it was better than not getting our packets, so I did.  Given my required departure time and the distance to the pickup, I'd given myself a little cushion of time for potential traffic, etc.  I ended up arriving at 10AM vs. the agreed upon 11AM.  When I arrived I found the did not have the bibs available yet.  I was understanding as I was early, however, the race director told me that they didn't know when they'd be there, as long as she did her job (the individual bringing them) he didn't get into her business and she had until 2 to get them there.   Rather than make me wait, he was gracious enough to tell me I could pick them up on race morning from his wife after explaining this was a courtesy because they couldn't have 500 runners picking up race morning.  Needless to say I was more than a little miffed, but tried hard to not show it.  Refer to my earlier comment about organization...my thoughts were given that we had PRE ARRANGED my pick up, the bibs should have been available by the agreed upon time AND if race morning was an option now, why had it not been a few days ago before making me waste the driving time this morning???  Again, I realize he was going out of his way for me, so I'm trying to keep that in mind, but I still struggle with those two points.  Fast forward to race morning....George and I showed up to the tent we were told to go to.  There were plenty of people picking up packets, so obviously we were not the only exception.  There were different lists of names for the full, half, and 10K.  The runner was to find their name on the list, then the volunteer checked the number assigned and gave them their packet.  I was not on any list.  I asked what I should do and showed them my confirmation email.  The volunteer was absolutley clueless and literally told me "I don't know what to tell you.  I'm a volunteer.  The woman left."  I asked what woman, where she went, who I should go ask...I got a blank stare.  I asked again and was told she might have gone to the start line.  I went to the start line and I found the race director who told me to go back to the tent and tell his wife to assign me a bib.  I informed him there were only volunteers there and asked his wife's name.  He told me and said he'd call her.  As I got back to the tent and asked for the woman by name a volunteer pointed her out...just as her phone was ringing.  Once she completed her call (her husband advising her of my situation), I introduced myself and was completely stunned by what happened next.  I had expected them to have extra bibs and assign one to me...nope...she randomly pulled someone's packet, handed it to me, and said, "Let's hope they don't show up!"  She then instructed me which tent to go to and who to see to get the bib assigned to me.  Arriving at the designated area, that individual looked me up and sent me back to the original tent, armed with my bib number to see if it was there.  I'd asked if I should take the "stolen" bib with me so if it was that person would have theirs available.  She told me no because she was going to go ahead and assign it to me just in case!  Back at the original tent, with the number I'd been provided, my bib was easily found.  So, if 34 year old Andrea actually showed up and had to deal with confusion...I'M SORRY!!!   I'm again torn on this entire situation because in their defense, they were trying to be accomodating to me given that I could not make the assigned pickup times, but I thought the entire situation was poorly handled and added confusion.  Either way, I headed to my corral...this process had eaten up the time we'd allowed for last potty stops, etc...it was time to go...

The race itself was a mental battle.  The ankle hurt some to begin with but not as much as the previous day.  A bigger challenge were the lead weights I was dragging with me in the form of legs.  I just had nothing in me.  I hadn't really fueled properly for yesterday's run, let alone refueling between the two, and had no breakfast before this one...so I was forcing muscles to fire without giving them any gas.  By about a mile and a half in I decided to walk.  By mile 3 I'd taken 3 or 4 walk breaks and was seriously mentally battling myself but was still keeping just under a 10 minute mile pace...I felt like it was much worse.  I downed a GU, hoping the legs would appreciate the calories.  Settling back into a run and just entertaining the thought of another walk, a gentleman tapped my shower and commented on the Maui Oceanfront shirt I was wearing.  He explained he and his wife were 50 staters and were looking for a HI race for 2014 to finish up their states.  I fell into step with him and we chatted about that race, our 50 state quests, and other races.  I handed him my running card and told him to keep in touch.  As we approached a waterstop he offered up a fist & and we pounded it, then he set off.  I kept the pace as I realized it was right around a 9 minute mile and I was actually feeling good with it now that the conversation had distracted me from all of my mental doubts and grumblings.  I stayed pretty consistent with that pace for the remainder of the race with the exception of one walk break around mile 7 or 8...which reminded me that I was running on empty today and prompted another GU.  I definitely used more GU than normal during the race, but I knew it was just lack of gas in the tank.  I ended up sucking down 4 total over 13 miles.  I mentally blogged again somewhere between miles 5 and 10...about running friends...you'll likely see that post sometime as I was amusing myself - but without the endorphins I may not capture it's full humor.  ;)  I also mentally noted that when the race director says a course is "now FLATTER and FASTER"...that doesn't mean it is flat or fast!  This course was full of rolling hills - I'd hate to see the previous course!  Would definitely not be what I'd expect of North Carolina!  As for the course itself...it was ok.  There were a few pockets of people and some of them occassionally cheered, towards the last 2 1/2 miles that picked up quite a bit, but over the first 9-11 miles there was VERY little energy.  If you need that push to get your through, don't count on it from this event!  The water stops were ample, but each was crammed together so people were nearly tripping on each other to grab a cup before passing the entire stop and the trash cans were so close to the end of the stop that you had to gulp if you wanted any chance of throwing away your cup.  Sometimes water was up front and sports drink in the back and other times it was reversed.  But the people were nice.  The course started by a round about and there were road features that posed trip hazards.  The announcer mentioned them just prior to the start, but I'd be remiss to not mention them as well.  Also, the course started downhill and it had rained that morning...the road surface was very slick for the first few miles.  Overall the course was not enjoyable enough that I'd come back to this race.  The medal was nice though.  The post-race party had pizza and smoothies - which were pretty spot on, but overall was nothing amazing.  I believe you could definitely find a better race for NC (and I have run better in NC), but if you are looking to check off the state and this works in your schedule there's no reason not to do it - just don't expect it to be your best race experience ever.  I finished in 2:06:03 - not bad given the early walking breaks - but the results weren't posted or available until nearly 10PM that night, despite having been chip timed. 

After finishing the race I headed to the hotel to shower and pack, intent on heading back to watch George finish the full.  I'd just put my stuff in the car and crossed the street when I got a text from George saying he was at mile 22 to go take a nap.  That sounds perfect, so I did!  I headed back to the room and passed out.  I woke up 45 minutes later, surprised I'd slept so deeply; and as I laid there debating going to watch George finish or going back to sleep he knocked on the door.  We chatted a bit, then he showered while I napped...that 15 minutes felt like an hour...I was obviously tired and obviously needed it.  Once he'd finished up, we headed towards the airport. 

I stopped at a Whole Foods we passed on the way and grabbed some fruit, shrimp, barley veggie salad, and wheat baquette...I don't care for drive thru so I was happy to have good food to snack on the car to refuel!  After dropping George off at the airport, I headed the four hours towards home.  On the return drive, I shifted gears to home life again and as the mental checklist started piling up in my brain for the week I wasn't nearly as overwhelmed as I'd been by it just a few short days ago.  My time with such compassionate, fun friends solving the world's problems 13 miles at a time, and experiencing other places had recharged my batteriest and left me ready for another week of chaos.  The weekend had confirmed that while my running eats up a portion of time I could be spending on others it's ok to be selfish sometimes and take the time for yourself and the things you enjoy.  It leaves you more focused and better able to handle the daily challenges.

The Highs and Lows of the Races

With a family wedding in MN this weekend, I again found myself on the road for a weekend. However, after all of the wedding travel plans were made I realized that with a 3PM Saturday wedding there was a possibility of adding a Sunday race if I could find something nearby for a new state.  I discovered Council Bluffs Half Marathon in Iowa.  It was a 4 1/2 hour drive from the wedding.  My thoughts were to leave the reception and drive directly there, showing up at the startline by the 8AM start...shoot, even leaving the reception by midnight would still give me almost four hours of sleep...which seems about normal now-a-days.  After registering and a few weeks going by I realized that landing Friday morning and the wedding not being until 3PM Saturday meant I could do a local MN race in the morning Saturday if there was one.  Sure enough the Monster Dash 1/2 was being held that morning, so I signed up! It was also my first costume run. 

I decided to run as Little Red Running Hood...a quick run into town to finish my costume the night before my flight found me wearing jeans and a tank top and being perfectly fine, not a hint of a chill...so I had no worries with my costume being too thin.   Sometimes I REALLY don't think things through!!!  Minnesota in late October...nuff said.  I stepped off the plane and instantly searched out a running store!  A quick stop later yielded arm sleeves, compression shorts, compression socks, and an ear band...for warmth!   Friday morning I headed to the start in 31 degree weather...what was I thinking? 

 I hadn't planned on participating in the costume contest, but arriving just minutes before the judging ended I decided to jump in line. 

A quick visit to stage with an explanation of my costume and I was off to the start line. 

Despite the layers, ruffles, and elastic I wasn't worried about chaffing as there was compression gear under nearly everything!   I toyed with whether to try to go sub 2 for a third consecutive race or to just enjoy the run.  I opted to just see how I felt and go with it.  I did realize the air was MUCH more dry than I am used to and tried to grab a little extra water before starting....

I've never grabbed a cup of water from a water table to find it was frozen.  This was not going to be a pleasant race!  A word to the wise if you run this race...hydrate well!  It's hard to realize the cold dry air would mess with your hydration as much as a hot race would, but it truly will and the first water stop isn't until mile 3! 

Soon enough we were off...

I'd left my hair down, partially for warmth and partially for the costume...I'd never run with my hair down for more than 4 miles before, so I was not sure how that would go.  But there was no issue. 

My hood didn't stay up long, it just kept blowing off so I let it stay off.

I got warm fairly quickly but didn't actually get warm enough to really sweat until around mile 9.5 or 10 and even then not too much.  The course itself was pretty good with a decent amount of crowd support/energy and plenty to look at while passing the time.  I didn't see a mile marker until mile 4, but may have just missed them.  There was a lot of uphills...short and slow for the most part, but lots of up and didn't really feel much down.  I still have no idea how we went up so much without going down unless it was just in my head due to the hills of the previous weekend.  Overall I felt good and kept running well, but wasn't thinking sub 2 was happening, didn't dwell on it either though.  At least not until around mile 11 when I checked my time and realized it could happen.  I didn't obsess about it, but that close I went ahead and pushed a little harder than I really felt like.  I finished in 1:59:19!  3 for 3 on sub 2...didn't know if that was a good thing or not...set the bar for the next day.  Not worrying about that, I headed to the info booth to see if they had official times posted anywhere (wanted to verify the Garmin).  When I got there I was surprised to see I'd actually gotten third place in the costume contest!

I verified my time, collected my costume award, and headed to the car...realizing that wearing the hair down for 13.1 miles results in a massive rat's nest!

On the way back I grabbed a few bags of ice and put  myself through a bit of an ice bath because the day hadn't started cold enough I suppose!

Then a quick shower and off to the wedding!  It was a beautiful wedding and a fabulous time!  I won't elaborate much or add pictures as I haven't had the opportunity to ask the bride's permission, but the trip was about the wedding with the races being side activities and the wedding was definitely the highlight of the trip!  After celebrating with the couple for a bit and a 4 1/2 hour drive there was still time for a few hours of sleep in Iowa before heading to the startline. 

Council Bluffs was my first USRA event and I was anxious to see how it was run as they have other races in states I have not completed yet.  My first impression came moments after registering when I saw the statement that there was no race morning packet pickup.  I typically am better about checking that out before registering and panicked that I'd really messed up. I fired off an email explaining the situation and within moments had not just 1, but 2 responses assuring me I could pick up on race morning.  I felt a bit relieved that this would be a good event.  Arriving at the address for the start line at 7AM there seemed to be no start line around.  I noticed a field off the side of the road and a sign saying something about YMCA field so gave it a shot.  There was indeed a dozen or so folks around and the beginings of a start line.  I laughed that there was no way there was going to be an 8AM start when this is what it looked like at 7:05...shame on me...I was WAY wrong!  I picked up my packet and headed across the street to a convenience store, by the time I got back it was a completely different place and race ready!   I would definitely warn others to beware though...it would have been VERY easy to simply dismissed this area as the start and spent the time looking elsewhere and missed the race.

As I lined up I decided not to even attempt sub 2 today...I have been struggling with some health stuff and my ankle has been bad since turning it during Saint Louis, on top of that the cold just made it a no go for me.  Everyone at the start area was incredibly nice.  We set off on the street, but I noticed they seemed to be more concrete than asphalt...not friendly for the ankle.  I'd also been experimenting with shoes for the last two months and as such was testing a theory by wearing my minimalist shoes for the last 4 1/2s...minimalist shoes on this surface wasn't worth testing the theory, but I was already in it with no alternative but to put in the miles. 

At the 1 mile marker we turned off the road and onto a concrete bike path.  The first of 4 water stops on this out and back course was at this point (total of 8 stops given the out and back, water and Gatorade offered at each but no GU, so bring your own if you need it!).   The concerte continued to be a source of discomfort as I took a miserable pounding.

I was already suffering...though I did hope the concrete would give way to a different surface before long and considered running in the grass on the side but was afraid the uneven surface would cause me to turn the ankle worse.

 

While running on the bike path meant no worries of traffic and the water stops were amply manned, it did not afford the opportunity for much crowd support.  There were VERY few people along the course and those that were there did not offer much encouragement.  Other than those at the water stops, during the entire out and back 2 people actually cheered as I ran by...not good for adding energy to a race you already aren't feeling.  Adding to that the fact that there was not much to look at, made for a serious mental struggle to keep pressing on.  I had thought Kansas was a boring course...this proved that Kansas was actually exciting. 

Many times I just decided to knock it out to knock out the state.  I was dealing with major pain and walked frequently, though my heart and lungs felt great.  I actually had so much pain going on that I had to stop twice...not just walk, but completely stop for a bit.  Finally around mile 3.5 - 4 the concrete gave way to asphalt which helped a little, but I still struggled.  This shot is truly a look of pain just before the transition to asphalt.

The course had ample support as far as fluid stops and porta potties, but the crowd support never improved.  Additionally, the turn around point was non-eventful.  Literally I found myself the only runner on a section of the bike path and I happened to notice a small sign on the edge of the path stating it was the turn around point...I tend to zone out during a run and could've easily passed this sign, as I'm sure many could.  I suggest staying alert on the way out so you don't end up passing your turn around and finding yourself way off course with added miles.  On the way back I passed a few of the runners I'd chatted with earlier and they offered high fives and words of encouragment.  There were a few ups and downs of slight hills but nothing major.

The biggest challenge of the course was not the hills, but rather the lack of scenery/energy...overall I'd have to rate this my most miserable/boring race/course to date.  I'm often asked what my favorite race has been.  That is almost inevitably followed with an immediately 'and your least favorite'?  I've always struggled with those questions because I have always found good things about each and every course I have run.  I now have the second part of that question answered regardless of how much running I do in the future.

As we approached the mile 12 marker we returned to the road, I'd actually found myself looking forward to this marker as I knew the last mile would have traffic to contend with but would offer something to look at.

I crossed the line in 2:14:19 despite the many walking breaks and the two stops.  I wasn't upset by that at all.  I'd checked the state, that was the important thing.  An announcement had been made at the start line that the medals had been mistakenly sent to the race director's FL office vs. the race headquarters, so they will have to be mailed...that was a slight disappointment, but things happen - of course, I can't help but wonder if we'll ever actually see a medal based on how slack the race/preparations/course/support were, but I'll give them a shot.  I headed to the car to hit the hotel for a shower before driving back to MN with plans to set some doctor's appointments first thing Monday...I have too many races in the near future to push myself through injury and make it worse.  What a difference a day can make...the high of 3 for 3 on sub 2 and a 3rd place costume contest placing to the low of a barely tolerable race with a lot of pain and the intent to set up doctor appointments.