2013 Race Schedule

Like most runners I know, as soon as the year starts winding down we start focusing on the next year.  I've set myself up for some pretty lofty goals/difficult races.  Here's what I have so far:

February 10, 2012: Riverview Winter Fest 4 miler - must beat last years time and try to meet 2010's time of 28 minutes.

March 24, 2012: Rock CF Half Marathon - goal is to run a 1:35 or faster.

April 15, 2013: Boston Marathon!!! - just enjoy the race and experience of the Boston marathon, but make sure I at least run it in under 4 hours.  I've never seen a 4 hour marathon, so why start now?  :-)

April 27, 2013: Running Fit's Trail Half Marathon - I love this event but missed it last year since I was pregnant and trail running at that point was out of the question.  2 hours or better.

May 5, 2013: Pittsburgh Marathon - enjoy the hill course and first time running this event.  Again, run under 4 hours and push hard if fully recovered from Boston.  This course is very hilly!

June 9, 2013: Ann Arbor Marathon - just to run 3 marathons in 3 months.  If feeling good, try to push for a 3:30-3:35.  another hilly course.

July 2013: ?

August 24, 2013: North Country Trail Marathon - training run for my 50 miler in September.

September 7, 2013: Run Woodstock 50 miler - my first 50 miler.  No goal but to finish!!

October 20, 2012: Detroit Marathon - its on my birthday so I have to run it.  depending on how the 50 miler goes, shooting for 3:35 for my 35th birthday OR sub 4 hours and run an extra 8.8 after to make it an even 35 miles on my 35th birthday.

November 2013: ?

December 2013: ?

So there you have it.  Looks pretty intense and insane now that I have it written down.  I am so ready to tackle these events.  I love long distance running and all the training that goes into it.  I am sure I will throw in a few other events, but these are my MUST run for 2013.

Detroit Turkey Trot 10K results

Finish Time: 45:52
Pace: 7:22
Place: 9th out of 592 in age group

Good for a new 10K PR.  Not all that fast, but I can literally count on one hand how many 10K's I have ran in the past few years.  They are clearly not my favorite distance.  I prefer half marathons or longer and avoid 5K's and 10K's because they hurt. lol!  I used the turkey trot as my speedwork for the week. 

If you want to read a great review on the race, check out Detroit Runner's review.  I know this race is more of a family fun run but still.  The finish area was a cluster!  I hope they make some changes for next years event.  I have run this for the past 6 years but will consider not running it again if they do not make some changes. 

Mezamashii Run Project

I finally received my shoes from Mizuno Mezamashii Run Project.  Since my feet are long and narrow (I run in a 9.5 2A) and I require a support shoe, I chose the Mizuno Wave Inspire 8's.  They were on back order and to my surprise, I received the 9's!  Do you have any idea how excited I was when I opened the box and saw the color of these shoes?  I had just commented to my husband (after seeing them in the RR sports catalog) how I would love if these are the ones I receive.  With my narrow feet, it seems like the shoes that come in widths are boring colors.  All my Brooks are white base w/ blue trim.  So to have a pair of narrow width running shoes in bright colors makes me so happy!!

I ran 5.25 miles in them this morning and so far they feel good.  There is one issue, but I am going to hold off on commenting on it just to see if it works itself out.  I've been running in Brooks for years so it may just be that I am adjusting to a different brand. 

Expect a full review of this shoe once I get some more miles in them.  I'll leave you with a few photos.

Grand Rapids marathon review

On October 21st, I ran my 5th marathon; the Grand Rapids marathon.   I ran this with my dad and 2 of our running friends Mike and Dave. I often refer to these 3 as "my 3 dads". 

I really wanted to get a marathon in this year/post pregnancy before Boston in April and our friend Dave was trying to qualify for Boston.  We chose GR due to the smaller race field and hometown feel.  Please Dave has ran this course before and really enjoyed it.  My birthday was October 20th so what better way to celebrate than to run a marathon!

I headed out to Grand Rapids with my dad, step mom, son and infant daughter on Saturday.  We went straight to the expo/packet pick up which was located at the local YMCA.  I admired the Y.  Much larger than the one I go to.  They have 3 levels and the expo was held on the 3rd level of the facility.  It was a small expo, but still had some nice vendors.  When I finally made my way back to the packet pick up, I was surprised to find that my race number was 34.  That is how old I had turned that day.  Nothing like being bib #34 on my 34th birthday. 

Anna w/ mommy's bib number

 

 

After the expo we checked into our hotel.  We stayed a few miles from the start in Grandville.  It was very convenient being right off the highway.  it took us about 10 minutes to get there.  We relaxed at our hotel until then evening and met Dave & Mike at Olive Garden for pasta.   Once dinner was over we headed back to the hotel to lay out our race gear and get some rest.

 

Sunday morning came quickly.  I was up early to pump (sorry guys).  We dressed, had coffee & pancakes in the hotel lobby/cafe and was out the door by 7am.  This was probably one of the easiest races to get to and park at.  We were parked on the first floor of the structure, 2 spots from the entrance.  We had a short walk to the start/finish area.  We hit the porto potties, walked over the the start line and by 8am we were off. 

 

The course was nice.  Definitely a small town feel but those that were out were so supportive.  The course offered an abundance of water/Gatorade stations and I believe they were handing out Gu at 4 spots!  The most Gu hand outs I have ever received at a marathon before was 2.   I was feeling really good and on pace to run a 3:35.  Then came mile 19 and I started to get sore and sluggish.  I kept pushing on but it was mentally tough.  Mike was struggling and had dropped back at about mile 17.  My dad and Dave passed me up at about mile 21.  I kept them in my site the last 5 miles and crossed the finish line 39 seconds behind them.  They finished in 3:38:23 and I finished in 3:39:02.  Mike finished in 3:49:59.  All 4 of us BQ-ed!! 

 



 

dad, me, Dave & Mike

 

I was really impressed with the finish line food.  Water, Muscle Milk, ice cream, chips, bagels, banana, oranges, pickles.  I drank a Muscle Milk light but didn't want anything else.  My legs were cramping and when they cramp after a marathon, I get nauseous.  Very strange, I know.  I also got to see Jeff at the finish line.  it was great to see him and be able to chat about how each others races went. 

 

Overall I am pleased with the marathon.  Was it the 3:35 I had hoped for?  no.  But I would say that running a 3:39 4.5 months after giving birth isn't so bad.  It's also my 2nd fastest marathon to date.   

 

Official Results:

Time: 3:39:02

Pace: 8:22

Age Group Place: 18/101

Overall: 62/1586

 

 





GR Marathon Results

3:39:02, 8:22 pace = a BQ for Boston 2014!!

full report to come sometime this week.

Brooksie Way Half Marathon results & review

Sunday, September 30th, was the 5th running of the Brooksie Way half marathon & 5K.  I had signed myself and Chris up a few months back.  It would have been his first "official" half marathon.  Yes, he did run Rock CF half with me, but I was 30 weeks pregnant and there wasn't much "racing" going on. 

I told him going into this race that I refused to let him beat me.  he beat me in August at an extremely hilly 10 mile race and I refuse to let him beat me again.  I am competitive with my husband when it comes to running.  He runs for cardio only and focuses more on strength training.  So when he beat me in August, I was going to make sure it was the first and last time he did so.  :-) 

My goal for this half was to finish in 1:40 or better.  I wasn't 100% positive I would actually be able to do it.  The course is not flat by any means and I had just ran an extreme trail 50K the week prior.  Who knows how my legs were going to feel.  They felt good when we started so I figured I would push the pace for as long and as hard as I could.  With all the hills in the last 5-ish miles, I was not sure I would reach my goal. I told myself "running sub-8 minute miles in my first half marathon since giving birth on June 7th was still a great accomplishment" and would be happy with that.  I ended up finishing the half marathon in 1:40:57 with my last mile being my fastest at a 7:07 pace!!  I couldn't believe how great I felt and began questioning if maybe I could have even broke 1:40!  It's not a PR (about 3 minutes off from my PR) but I still consider it a very respectable time.  Chris ended up finishing just behind me in 1:41:53.  Less than a minute, but I still crossed the finish line before him!!  :-) 

Before I met up with him at the finish line, I was able to say a quick hello to Jeff over at Detroit Runner.    We met back in 2011 at the 1st Rock CF half.  If you do not read his blog, you must start NOW!  Not only is this guy a talented runner, but you must read on how he got started in the first place.  Congrats on a speedy finish Jeff!  See you in GR!

I have yet to purchase any photos from the race and not so sure I will.  I look like Shrek in all of them.  I swear, I never take a good race photo!

Official Results:
Time:  1:40:57
Pace:  7:43
Age Group Place:  8th/195
Overall: 270/2776

Dances with Dirt 50K race results and review

Another ultra under my belt!  The weather was cold and wet, just the way Randy Step prefers it. 

The DWD events are such a challenge.  They are not just any trail race.  The course takes you off into the woods, through mud, through various water crossing, up a river, lots of up & down, on to technical trails full or rocks/roots/hills and you have a blast while doing it.

I ran this event last year and had so much fun that I couldn't wait to do it again this year.  I knew it may not happen since I had just given birth in June but signed up anyway hoping I could tough it out.  and tough it out I did.

We started with a group of 8 and finished with a group of 6 (the other 2 finished about 40 minutes after we did).  Having such a fun group to run with not only helped the miles fly by, but it helped me in the end when the last few miles really start to break me down mentally.  We crossed the finish line together in 6 hours 21 minutes and 40 seconds in the pouring cold rain.  5 minutes slow then last years time but that didn't matter.  5 out of 6 of us placed in our age groups!  I placed 2nd out of 8 in mine (30-35).  Our awards were folding camp chairs.  Pretty sweet award if you ask me.  I am disappointed in the shirts this year.  Last years shirt fits so nicely.  This years shirt fits awful and the material seems off. 

Official results:
Time: 6:20:50
Pace: 12:17
Age Group: 2/8
Overall (females): 11/52

Here is a photo of us on the easiest, yet my least favorite part of the race.  it's the gravel "rail trail".  I'd much rather be on the trails in the woods! (I am in the middle w/ the black & orange.  my dad is in the red).

Oak Openings 25K trail race results and review

The short. First 25K.  First trail race of 2012. Time: 2:16:40, 8:57 pace, however my Garmin disagrees and says the course was .50 miles short which would lead to a slower pace.  Placed 7th out of 20 in my age group (31-35, odd numbering I know). 

The Longer version.

My dad and I signed up for Oak Openings 25K trail race in Toledo, OH as part of our training for the main event this Saturday.  The race was held on what is called the boy scout trail.  I have ran this trail twice before; once in the dead heat of the summer in 2011 while training for Dances with Dirt and again in the winter while I was pregnant.  I liked knowing that I was going into a race to run a trail that I am not familiar with.  I started out much faster than I intended (or thought I could) to run but was able to maintain my pace and really push it hard.  My right knee was bothering me but I ignored it.  In fact, it's been bothering me for a while but I figured if I don't talk about it, the pain will go away.  :-) 

I didn't have any goal finish time in mind, just wanted to push it as hard as I could.  I believe that I did, but so did 6 other women in my age group!!  I placed 7th out of 20.  Not bad.  The course measured short so I guess I didn't really complete a 25K.  I'll have to add another one to my 2013 race schedule. 

On the only portion of the trail that is NOT in the woods.

Official Results:
Time: 2:16:40
Pace: 8:57 (based on 25K distance, not 15 miles as my Garmin registered)
A/G Place: 7th/20

20 mile run, a high mileage month and upcoming races

What a month August turned out to be. Not only did I run 2 post pregnancy races (Clark Lake 12K and Run thru Hell 10 mile) I also had my highest mileage month ever!! I ran a total of 220.47 miles! My highest prior to this was July of 2011 topping out at 203 miles. I know I won't see this number for a while now that I am back to work and have to fit running in where I can. I've been tooting my own hron all weekend about this mileage. It's amazing what my body has been able to do after giving birth. Now to get my speed back. 


Over the weekend I ran my longest distance/time run for 2012. We ran 20 miles on the Poto trail in Pinckney, MI in preperation for Dances with Dirt 50K. It took us 3 hours and 51 minutes to run 20.58 miles. That trail beat me up. I managed not to fall at all however, my legs are still sore 3 days later! I certainly hope I have it in me to meet our goal of sub-6 hours! I'll be hitting the trail again this Saturday to run another 20 miles. At least we are keeping it a little "easier" by running at Hudson Mills versus another 20 on Poto. We are also registered for the Oak Openings Stampede 25K trail race on the 16th.  It will make a good taper run prior to the 50K.

I am trying to find a late November or early December marathon or 50K that wouldn't be too far to travel to.  maybe a couple hour drive max.  Any recommendations??  Here is what my race schedule looks like as of now.

9-16: 25K
9-22: 50K
9-30: half marathon
10-21: marathon
11-3: 5K
11-22: 10K

July Stats, August work outs, DWD and other ramblings

In one week from today I go back to work after being off for 12 weeks.  I am so sad.  I will miss my baby girl and I will miss being able to run whenever I want to, so to speak.  I've been able to get in some high mileage weeks and I have this fear of not being able to balance work, running and family once I go back.  I know it will be hard at first but eventually I'll get the hang of it.

I officially signed up for Dances with Dirt 50K.  I am excited for this event.  It was one of my favorite events from last year.  So much different than your typical road race.  I love being on the trails, challenging my body, running in the dark, running up stream, etc...  Will I be ready?  Well, I have no choice.  I must admit though, I have not been on the trails in months!!  That needs to chance ASAP!  I plan to hit Poto over labor day weekend as well as a couple more training runs prior to DWD.  I know I will finish, I just want to make sure I can keep up with my dad and our other 2 friends, Mike & Dave.  We plan to stick together and these guys have been hitting the trails hard!! 

July ended up being a decent running month considering I had just given birth in June.  August is stacking up to be a great month as well.  I ran 114 miles in July and have already put up 139 miles this month with still having 10 more days of running.  I've had 1-50+ mile week and hope to hit 50+ this week.  I really need to add in more core and strength though.  I've been slacking in that area.  I've been trying to make sure I do push ups daily, but even those I slack on.  Push ups!  They don't even take that long to do.  I must start to make my strength and core a priority.  I know it will help make me a stronger runner. 

We leave for Higgins Lake tomorrow through Sunday and I fully intend on running everyday while we are there.  Last year I was able to get in a 10 mile run just by looping around the camp ground.   My goal is to get in an easy 3-5 mile run tomorrow when we arrive and then run 10 miles each day Thursday, Friday & Saturday with Sunday being my rest day. 

Duty calls!  As known as, my sweet Anna is starting to wake up.  I must go feed her, grab something light to eat and head out for a run.  I am running to the gym, lifting and doing core and will run home.

Run thru Hell race results

Saturday was the annual Run thru Hell race.  There are two events; 10 mile and 4.8 mile races.   My uncle is the creator of this race and has been putting it on for 35 years.    I ran the 10 mile along with Chris and a bunch of my running friends.  I went into this race as a training run and came out with a 2nd place finish in my age group!  I ran the 10 miler in 1:21:53.  Slower than last years event but faster than I thought I would run being how tough this course is.  Major, major hills!!!!

After the race, one of my running friends Dave and I headed back out to run another 5 miles.  We ran out 2.5 miles and turned back.  at about 3.5 miles, out of nowhere comes 2 big, black dogs that looked like a Pitt bull mix of some sort.  The one charged at Dave, bearing teeth, barking and foaming at the mouth.  Dave kicked and punched the dog while I jumped on the back windshield of a parked car.  The dogs stood there barking at Dave when a homeowner (and owner of the car I am on) come out.  He said they were the guy down the hills dog and told us to yell "go home".  We did and the dogs took off towards their house.  We grabbed a couple large rocks and slowly proceeded down the hill.  The dog owner came out of his house and asked if we were attacked.  He apologized stating he had no idea they got out.  He called them in and we finished our run.  Dave and I jinxed ourselves since we had just talked about how neither one of us grabbed our pepper spray and that we both carry it when running rural roads.  When we returned to the race site, we then notice 2 large scratches on Dave's arm and leg.  He thinks it was caused by the dogs studded collar.  He cleaned it off and applied anti-bacterial ointment to the area.  I've always had a fear of being chased and attacked by a stray dog ever since my dad was bitten by one.  Now I am not so sure when I will run on rural roads again. 

Official Race Results:

Time: 1:21:53
Pace: 8:12
Age Group Place: 2nd/18
Overall: 162/451

Run Clark Lake Results

Saturday was my first race since being pregnant and having Anna.  Chris and I ran the Run Clark Lake 12K.  I ran this race in 2010 as well.  Needless to say, I forgot how hilly this course was!  It was a hot, humid and sunny race.  My only goal was to run hard and finish strong.  I knew I would not come close to my 2010 finish time (56:05, 7:31 pace).  I started out slow and continued to get faster through out the race.  I crossed the finish line in 1:02:21, good for a 3rd place finish in my age group.  That is the same place I finished in 2010 but with a much faster time.  I am satisfied with my time being that I just gave birth 8 weeks ago.  After the race, Chris and I headed out for an additional 1.5 miles to make it an even 9 miles for the day.

Official Results:
Time: 1:02:21
Pace: 8:21
Age group: 3rd / 10
Overall: 65 / 190

                                         My 3rd place award.  I love to get awards I can use!

Postpartum Stats

It has been just over 4 weeks that I started running again and I have managed to put up 110 miles (11.55 of those walked), with last week being 45.25 miles!  I also ran my longest run in months yesterday; 17 miles.  My pace is still much slower than where I was at this time last year, but I am trying not to focus on my pace.  My main concern is to build up endurance again so that I can maintain 50+ mile weeks now through my ultra and fall marathons.  I've got a trail 50K in less than 8 weeks and a marathon in October.  I just want to finish both strong, not looking to PR!!

Here is how my work outs have stacked up since I started running on June 30th.

June 30th: 4 miles, 50:59, 12:45 pace (run/walk- first postpartum run)
July1st: 5 miles. 54:52, 10:58 pace w/ hills (couple walk breaks)
Total miles: 9

Week of July 2nd-July 8th
Monday: 4.54 mile walk w/ Anna 1:20:30, 17:43 pace (hills)
Tuesday: 4.03 mile walk 1:05:03, 16:09 pace (w/ hills)
Wednesday: rest
Thursday: 3.57 mile run 41:57, 11:45 pace (run/walk w/ hills)
Friday: rest
Saturday: rest
Sunday: 5.15 mile run 57:16, 10:07 pace
Total miles: 17.29 miles

Week of July 9th-July 15th
Monday: Rest
Tuesday: 4.01 mile run 40:39, 10:08 pace
Wednesday: 2.98 mile walk w/ Anna, push ups, lifted biceps, squats
Thursday: 6 mile run 55:34, 9:15 pace
Friday: 4 mile run 35:56, 8:59 pace
Saturday: 5 mile run - treadmill 48:30, 9:42 pace, lifted shoulders, chest & triceps
Sunday: 4 miles total: 2 mile run to the gym 18:16, 9:08 pace, lifted biceps, back, planks, 2 mile run home from gym 17:47, 8:54 pace
Total miles: 23.01 miles

Week of July 16th-July 22nd
Monday-Friday: rest (had a scare and decided to wait to run until I saw my doctor on Thursday.  received the green light!)
Saturday: 10.45 mile trail run (3 loops); loop 1: 2.94 miles 26:53, 9:08 pace  Loop 2: 3.26 miles 28:56, 8:52 pace  Loop 3: 4.25 miles 38:09, 8:59 pace
Sunday: 5 mile run - treadmill 47:00, 9:24 pace, lifted biceps & shoulders
Total miles: 15.45

Week of July 23rd-July29th
Monday: 5 mile run - treadmill 47:22, 9:26 pace, lifted back
Tuesday: 8 mile run 1:12:44, 9:05 pace (first run with my 5am running group since Anna's birth)
Wednesday: 7 mile run 1:03:25, 9:04 pace w/ hill work, push ups 6x10
Thursday: rest
Friday: 8.25 mile run 1:10:30, 8:33 pace (ran on the Illinois prairie path, fastest run since Anna's birth!)
Saturday: rest
Sunday: 17 mile run 2:43:47, 9:38 pace (ran on the Illinois prairie path, longest run since Anna's birth)
Total miles: 45.25 miles

Double digit runs, ultra training and a marathon decision to make

I ran my first post-pregnancy double digit run on Saturday!  not only did I run 10.5 miles with my dad but it was ran on trails!!  It was a tough work out but felt great.  It was just what I needed to prove I still have some fitness level.  Of course, I am not nearly as fast as prior to my pregnancy, but I still was able to knock out the 10.5 miles at a 9:00 pace.  I'll take that!  I followed it up with another 5 miles on Sunday along with some strength training for biceps & shoulders.  My legs are sore today but hoping to get an easy 3 miles in prior to lifting for back and my ab work. 

I am running another ultra on September 22nd.  I have just under 9 weeks to be ready for DWD Hell 50K.  I need to put together some sort of training plan.  I loaned my 2011 training log to a fellow runner so I am unable to look back at last years 50K training.  The good thing about DWD is that there are no expectations when it comes to my time.  The trails are ridiculously hard so my only goal it to finish!   There are also some hard core aide stations that we tend to stop at and rest for 5-10 minutes while refueling.  So that helps as well.  Totally different than a marathon where I want to run hard and fast. 

We also are torn between the fall marathon.  Originally we were going to run Grand Rapids marathon on October 21st.  Now my dad has mentioned possibly running the Red, White & Blue 26.2 in Findlay, OH on October 7th.  Although the GR course would be much nicer (we've heard the Findlay course is boring), the Findlay, OH marathon wouldn't require us to stay the night prior to the race.   It would also allow me to leave Anna home versus bringing her with us to Grand Rapids.  We need to decide prior to the price increase! 

It's been a long time!

I can't believe it has been so long since I last posted anything in my blog!! Anna is now 1 month and 3 days old. She smiled today for the first time too! I thought being home with Anna would be so relaxing but its really not. I am constantly doing something around the house or taking care of her. I go to the doctors on the 18th and I hope he gives the green light to start running because.... I started running on June 30th. I've been feeling so good that I just couldn't help myself. I've been going slow and taking walk breaks. Between June 30th and today, I have run 5 times (just got back from a slow 4 miler) for a total of 21.75 miles. Do you know how good it feels to run? I am stil extremely slow, but faster than I ran at the end of my pregnancy. I know some people may think I am nuts to take it upon myself and start running prior to seeing my doctor at my 6 week check up, but I've done a ton of reading on postpartum running and, although I am not a doctor, I feel I can handle it. Again, I am running slow and taking walk breaks. I listen to my body and check for signs of it telling me to back off. If I had not run through out my entire pregnancy including a 3.1 mile run and 5.5 mile walk just the day before I delivered, then this would not be a smart move on my part. But since I have put in high miles with lots of long runs I think I am ok. Plus, I had such an easy pregnancy and smooth delivery. All being free of complications. I can't wait to start running hard, long and fast again. I am sop eager to sign up for races too! I actually filled out my first race registration this morning. Run Clark Lake 12K on August 4th. I may not be "racing" it, but it will be fun to just get out there with others who share the love of running.

Future distance runner!

She's here!  My future long distance runner Anna Lynn!  Born June 7th, 2012 at 4:44pm weighing 8lbs 1 oz and 21 & 1/2 inches long.  I will write up a full birth story in a few days.  Lets just say, as they were washing her up after delivery, those longs were going like crazy!!  I love her so much.

National Running Day!

Did you celebrate?  I did!

I managed a VERY SLOW 3.13 miles on the treadmill.  My slowest 5K ever.  Doesn't bother me though.  I am just happy I am still moving at 39 weeks & 4 days pregnant.  I ended up walking around outside w/ one of my running buddys for 5.5 miles too.  All in hopes to get things "moving along" with this baby.  No signs of labor yet, but you never know what could happen later today.

I ran! And another BQ!!

After my whining about not running and probably not being able to run until after the baby is born, I managed 4.25 miles yesterday.  Was it slow?  You betcha!  but I ran. and it felt so good.  I was using the AMT machine for the past week so I was able to get in some cardio.  Saturday I spent 1 hour on it and then lifted for biceps and back.  Sunday I was so inspired by my dad and other running friends running a marathon in the sunny, hot weather that I decided to take it to the treadmill and see if I could run.  I managed 4.25 miles of running and walking in 1 hour.  That is very slow, but considering it had been 12 days since I ran and I am over 37 weeks pregnant, I was ecstatic!!   I had such a runners high!  I have missed running so much.  I also lifted for shoulders, triceps and chest after my run.  Needless to say, I am sore today!!  It's a good sore though.

Not only did I have a good Sunday run, but so did my dad.  He ran The Qualifier marathon and BQ-ed!!!  I am so happy!  His only reason for running this marathon was to BQ so that he could run Boston 2013 with me.  It wasn't easy either.  The temps were high, the sun was shining, it was on long & boring stretches of road without any shade.  He started out with the 3:25 pace group and felt good through the first 15 miles but figured maybe he should slow it down a bit.  he was worried he would tank and not get his BQ.  good thing he did, because once he hit mile 18, things got ugly.  But in the end, he pulled it off.  He needed a 3:40 for his age to BQ and finished in 3:35:48.  So now we just have to keep out fingers crossed that it will be enough to get in.

lack luster blog

I wish I had something fun to post about but I don't.  I've been sick for about 11 days and have only ran once during that time.  I had one trip to the gym where I used the AMT machine & did some weight lifting and two power walks.  All were hard.  It is a combination of my horrible cold and the discomfort I have been feeling.  I really hoped to be able to say I ran up until I delivered, but now I am not so sure that will happen.  I will give it a shot tomorrow or Sunday, very slow & very easy!!  I'll be 37 weeks tomorrow so I should be happy I can do any form of exercise at this point.

On another note, a ton of running friends and my dad are running The Qualifier marathon this Sunday.  I really wanted to be there to cheer them on, but I am staying home.  I know a few, including my dad, are going after BQ's.  And wouldn't you know it, it's supposed to reach 83 degrees and high humidity that day.  My dad can't win!  First dealing w/ the awful conditions in Boston and deciding to run smart versus pushing for a BQ and now this.  One good thing is that the start times are no where near as late as Boston.  It starts at 7:30am, almost 3 hours earlier than Boston started so hopefully that will be a positive factor.  I want my dad to BQ so badly!  I can't run Boston next year without!  I mean, I will if I have to, but I would prefer him to be there too!!

Anyway, that's about it.  See, I told you I have nothing fun to post about.  I will leave you with this gem.  Taken Wednesday after a trip to the gym.  I am huge.  :-)

It's Official!

Dear Stephanie:

If you are receiving this email, you have been identified as a participant who, due to the heat warnings issued by the Boston Athletic Association prior to this year's Boston Marathon, followed the B.A.A.'s deferment procedure and chose to defer your entry to the 2013 Boston Marathon, which will be held on Monday, April 15, 2013.

If, during the adjudication process of the 2012 Boston Marathon, your bib number is identified as being on the course at any location, a deferment to 2013 will not be issued.

Your deferment makes you eligible for an early registration opportunity. On August 20, 2012, you will be sent a personalized email with a secure link containing a password/waiver combination that will allow you to submit your registration electronically. To ensure that you continue to receive information about this process, please be sure to keep the B.A.A. informed of any changes to your personal information (such as your email address).

This special registration period will be held from Monday, August 20 at 10 a.m. through Thursday, August 30 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time in the United States. You will need to pay a 2013 entry fee.

Shown below is data related to your 2012 entry:

Name	Stephanie L. K...............
Bib	12591
Qualifying Time	3:28:59

This preregistration invitation is exclusively for your use and may not be transferred. The August email and the associated secure link and password combination may not be transferred and will be deemed invalid for use by any other individual than for whom it was intended.

If you do not register during the 11-day period in August, your deferment entry may no longer be guaranteed through the open registration period.

If you have any questions, please contact the B.A.A. Registration Office at registration@baa.org or 508-436-6905.

Sincerely,
Boston Athletic Association

Boston 2012, Dad's race results

A quick recap of my dad and our friend Mike's Boston experience.  I am so glad the two of them had each other to run with.  When you train through winter in the mid-west and get slapped with close to 90 degree temps on race day, it's a shock to the system!  I followed their times closely through-out the day and watched them get progressively slower and slower as they went on.  Due to the high heat warning, they were just going to make this an enjoyable "fun" run.  The only goal was to not see 4 hours on the clock.  My dad said he started sweating just making the .70 mile walk from athletes village to the starting corral.  He took water at each stop (they had water every mile) and would dump a cup over his head.  He said he was soaking wet with water and sweat, head to toe!   He watched someone get hauled off on a stretcher at mile 8.  MILE 8!!! 

Dad (on left) and Mike 16.5 miles into the marathon, looking strong!



Just after this photo was taken my dad started to fade, and fast.  He said it took all he had to shuffle along between miles 18 and 20.  Mike helped him along those 2 miles while he took in fuel, hydrated and began to catch his 2nd wind.  Then it was Mike's turn.  Mike's legs and feet began to cramp up.  They walked a bit when needed.  They finally made the turn on to Boylston.  Mike tried to push the pace a bit, but my dad told him don't bother, they were not going to make 4 hours.  They crossed the finish line in 4:01:27.  A personal best for my dad... his slowest marathon ever!  But that's ok.  Considering what they endured, that is a great time!!  

A couple post race photos....

What's next?  Well, they intend to take a week off and then hammer back at it to run a marathon on May 20th.  They both need to BQ this year so that they can run with me in 2013!

I am so proud of my dad, and Mike too!!

Boston Deferment

I received this email Saturday afternoon:

BOSTON MARATHON UPDATE

Due to warm weather in Monday's forecast, a deferment option has been introduced.

Due to the unusually warm weather forecast for the Boston area on Monday, the B.A.A. will defer the entry of those official entrants to the 2013 Boston Marathon for participants who decide not to race.

This applies to official entrants only who either have claimed or will claim their bib number packet at the John Hancock Sports & Fitness Expo through Sunday evening at the Seaport World Trade Center in South Boston. Runners must claim their bib number for deferment to be an option.

In order to receive a deferment for 2013, race participants may not start the race.


No refund for the 2012 entry will be given. All entry fees for 2013 must be paid.

In addition, the B.A.A. will keep the finish systems open an additional hour on race day. Whereas the finish systems generally cease just prior to 5:00 p.m., this year the finish systems will remain open until approximately 6:00 p.m.


Please go to the B.A.A.'s web site - www.baa.org or www.bostonmarathon.org - for the latest information.
 
The B.A.A. thanks all participants for their cooperation in this matter.
 
Your bib number MUST be claimed to receive the deferment into 2013's Boston Marathon.  I am lucky enough to have signed my packet pick up card over to my dad who is running the Boston marathon as I type this.  So my bib number was claimed, it did not cross the start line and I will be running the 2013 Boston Marathon!!! 
 
I am sure they will be some controversy surrounding the B.A.A.'s decision to implement a deferment policy.  But, if you look back at previous years, they used to allow deferments.  This would have been the first year that absolutely no deferments are allowed.  That is, until mother nature made them change their mind. I am glad they are taking this heat wave so seriously.  I hope that everyone who has chosen to run, runs smart! 
 

Cutting back and Monthly Miles

I am still here. Just not too much going on to blog about.  I am still running as often as I can but I am done with races until after the baby is born.  It's rather difficult to get start when I head out the door or hit the treadmill for a run.  The first few miles I am uncomfortable and feel like I need to pee but once I get past that, I feel great and could go forever.  Of course, it's a super slow pace to what I am compared to running at but a friend pointed out that this could be great heart rate training for me. 

I've also decided not to obsess over running so much.  I only have 2 months left of this pregnancy and, although I love to run, I need to step back and really enjoy the time I have left being pregnant.  If I run, I run.  If I don't, I am not going to beat myself up over it.  Yesterday I had plenty of time to get a run in but decided to force myself to do other forms of exercise.  I spent 50 minutes doing intervals on the AMT machine (45 minutes w/ every 2 minutes going from 20% to 6% and 5 minute cool down at 16%), 10 minutes on the stationary bike and lifted for shoulders.  It felt good to get in a hard work out other than running.  I went back to the gym this morning and ran 5 miles on the treadmill.  I didn't care about my pace, just how I felt and how much I could fit in during the allocated time. 

Do I miss running hard and racing hard?  Yes, very much so.  But it will always be there. This pregnancy will not.  So I need to stop stressing over not reaching a certain amount of miles each week or running a certain number of days and focus on the pregnancy and what is left of it. 

On another note, I don't think I have updated my month miles at all this year.  So unlike me.  Anyway, here are the totals. 

January: 131.77 miles
February: 138 miles
March: 138.02 miles

Rock CF Race Results

Sunday was the 2nd running of the Rock CF Half Marathon & 5K on Grosse Ile.  I ran this race last year (it's inaugural year) and this course is where I hold my current half PR (1:37).  I knew this years race would be even bigger than last year.  There were about 1600 runners, 500 more than last year.  They changed the course slightly, had nicer shirts and sweet medals!   Chris had originally trained for this to be his first half marathon but after a bone contusion in his foot left him sidelined for 8 weeks, running this was dicey.  In the end, he decided that since I am pregnant and require multiple port-a-potty and walk breaks, he could do.  And he did.  He ran by my side the entire time!

It was such a great day for my last race while being pregnant.  So many of my running friends were there, my dad ran the half (and PR-ed w/ a 1:33!!), my mom & aunt walked the 5K, I had such awesome support from fellow runners & spectators out on the course and even received 2 medals when I crossed the finish line; one for me and one for baby!  I got to meet Katie from Runs for Cookies.  Thanks for introducing yourself and congrats on the PR!  I also got to see Rose from Hacker Half Marathon that I met last year at this same race.  Again, congrats to you too on the PR.  I swear, yesterday was the day of PR's. 

The was another PR for me too; my slowest half marathon ever!  LOL!!  It was also race #7 to add to baby's pre-birth racing list/my pregnancy racing list.  Am I sad that racing is over until after I give birth?  Absolutely.  I love running races, even if I am not technically "racing" them.  I love being surrounded by others who have a passion for the same thing I do; running!!  But I also know it's now time to cut back.   

Here are my official results and a few pictures.

Finish Time: 2:11:04
Pace: 10:00
A/G Place: 45/75

Chris, baby and I finishing the half!  :-)

 After the race w/ my 2 medals; one for me & one for baby!

a profile shot of the baby bump.  all smiles!

Chris and I getting our picture taken

a handful of my running friends! 

Baby's got another race

Or should I call it a run?  I am technically not racing. 

Anyway, this Sunday is the 2nd running of the Rock CF Half Marathon.  This also happens to be the same course that I hold my current half PR (1:37:31).  I will be lucky if I can complete the half in 2 hours.  My, how things have changed in a year.  I am really looking forward to this event.  There will be so many people that I know from the running community running this race.  And I get to add another race to the baby's list!

Unfortunately, Chris will not be running. After taking 7 weeks off due to a bone contusion, he just started running again last week.  I was hoping he would be healed enough to at least keep my company on the course, but he's making the right decision to not run it at all.  He'll get a shirt out of the deal and the money goes to a good cause!

As I mentioned, I get to add another race to the baby's list.  So far she has participated in a trail ultra, a marathon, a 10K, 2-4 mile races, a 5K and now a half marathon.  This will probably be her last race before she arrives.  That is, until I get the OK from the pediatrician to start running her in the jogging stroller, then she will be back at it. 

As I suspected...

Thank you for your email and congratulations on the arrival of your little one.

As of our 2011 Boston Marathon registration the BAA no longer offers deferments for any reason.

Each year, many entrants of the Boston Marathon become unable to participate on race day for various and valid reasons. Due to the high demand for participation in our race, the BAA realized that we could no longer reserve spaces in future events for those who became unable to run. For the past two years, therefore, we have asked registrants to acknowledge their understanding of the no-deferment policy as part of our registration process, which we see you have done.

If you would like a friend to pick up your race packet you simply need to sign your number pick up card, enter your friends name and then have them visit us at the solution center of the runners expo with their photo ID.

We wish you good health and the best of luck in your future running endeavors.

Sincerely,

BAA Registration Office
One Ash Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748
508-435-6905
Please reply to registration@baa.org for further questions or comments.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hope my dad is ready to help me go sub-3:30 once I bounce back from having this baby!  I may not be running Boston this year, but I will get to Bean Town! 

Cork Town 5K Results

Sunday March 11th, I ran an extremely popular 5K race in Detroit; The Cork Town 5K.  This event is held every year just hours before the annual St. Patrick's Day parade.   I believe this years event capped out at over 7600+ runners.  That is a lot of people and a lot of green!  It was a beautiful day for the race.  Warm & Sunny!!  I was a little nervous about this race.  Not because of my time, I wasn't planning to run hard.  But because of the large crowd and the uneven road.  Everything went smoothly.  No one knocked me over, I saw a fellow blogger/runner friend Jen running an amazing post injury race and I stayed well below my goal time of 30 minutes.  That makes me laugh.  Here I was last year trying for a 20 minute 5k and this year I am hoping to just stay under 30 miles. 

Official Results:
Finish Time: 28:33
Pace: 9:13
A/G Place: 176/836
Overall Place: 2,500/7,654

Donna, Jeff & I prior to the race (we decided to sport the Tigers gear)

Donna & I running a couple warm up miles

Post race with a few of my fellow running friends



Pulling out of Boston

It's official, all the hard work I have put in over the past 2 years to qualify and run Boston will not be paying off in the end.  I will be pulling out of the Boston Marathon.

My only question is, how do I do so?  Do I just email the BAA telling them I am pulling out of the race and request them to send me my shirt?  I know I do not get my bib, but for a $150 registration fee, I think I deserve my shirt!  My brother in-law told me to ask them if I can deferre but I already saw under the FAQ's that as of 2011, they no longer deferre registrations to the following year. 

I've never had to pull out of a race before, especially one of this caliber, so I am not 100% certian how to go about it. 

A baby bump photo!

24 weeks and 3 days, taken Tuesday night after my 7 mile run on the treadmill.

Boston Marathon Training: Week 7

Here I am 24 weeks pregnant and 7 weeks into marathon training.  Will I even be able to run the marathon?  Who knows, but I am enjoying the fact that I am pregnant but still having weekly long runs while carrying an additional 18lbs on my once slim frame.  It makes me laugh when I think of the few emotional break downs I've had during this pregnancy.  Each on has to do with running. 

Last week went pretty well. My mileage was lower than where I wanted it to be, but I am still satisfied since I only ran 4 times. 

Here is how the week's training went.

Monday: 15 minutes stair stepper, 25 minutes AMT machine (intervals at 20% resistance & 4 % resistance), Upper body strength training (bicep curls, tricep dips, lateral pull down)
Tuesday: Rest Day
Wednesday: 8.28 mile run outside early AM, upper body strenth training (shoulder press, lateral raises, upright row, push ups, planks) PM
Thursday: 6.5 mile run treadmill early AM
Friday: 3 mile run treadmill & yoga class 45 minutes, early AM
Saturday: 18 mile run outside AM, ran the Rock CF Half marathon course + 5 miles, VERY windy!!
Sunday: 45 minutes elliptical (intervals 4% resistance/1% incline & 8% resistance/10% incline), Upper body strength training (biceps, tricpes, shoulders, chest) afternoon gym session
Total Mileage: 35.78 miles

Boston Marathon Training: Week 5 & Week 6

I am not so sure I should be using this is a title.  I highly doubt I will be traveling to Boston, but until I know that's 100% a no-go, I guess it's ok to keep this title.  Technically, I am still training as if I will be running a marathon. 

Aside from my emotional break down last week, the past 2 weeks have gone fairly well.  I've been attending yoga on Friday mornings and really trying to get at least 1-2 good strength training sessions in.  I had a great 17 mile run during week 5 and ran my first race of the year during week 6.  It was only a 4 mile race, but with how my pace has been, I was almost embarrassed to run it considering last year my time was 28 minutes for 4 miles!  I actually have a  much better time than I expected!

Here is how my last couple weeks wrapped up.

Week 5 (Jan. 30-Feb. 5)
Monday: Pilates, biceps
Tuesday: 8.27 mile run - early morning outside; stretched & foam rolled PM
Wednesday: 8 mile run - early morning outside; push ups, foam rolled, stretched PM
Thursday: 3.35 mile run - PM outside testing out new shoes, push ups
Friday: Yoga - early morning
Saturday: 17 mile run - AM outside at Willow Metro Park
Sunday: 7.2 miles stationary bike, upper body lifting (biceps, triceps, shoulders), Abs - AM Gym
Total Mileage: 36.62 miles

Week 6 (Feb. 6-Feb.12)
Monday: 6.2 miles - PM outside, windy!!
Tuesday: push ups
Wednesday: 7.25 miles - PM treadmill, slow w/ walk breaks
Thursday: Circuit training at home - PM (biceps, shoulders, triceps, chest, abs, squats)
Friday: Yoga & 3 mile run - early morning at the Gym
Saturday: 9 mile run - AM treadmill at the gym
Sunday: Riverview Winter Fest 4 mile + 1 mile warm up (race results below)
Total Mileage: 30.45 miles

Riverview Winter Fest Race Results:
Time: 34:59
Pace: 8:44
A/G Place: 8th/29

Here is a picture of my running buddy Jeff and I after the race.  The #1 is because he is celebrating his victory of finally beating me at a race.  It took me getting pregnant for him to do so. LOL!!

Link to other photos

Finish Line photo

One mile mark

another one mile mark photo



I cried at the gym.

Yesterday I made the decision to run on the treadmill. When I run in the afternoon and evenings I have to pee more frequently than I do in the mornings. I needed to be near a restroom at all times.

Anyway, Chris was there lifting weights and I was running on the TM. Well, my run was going awful. I had a pain in my right foot, gas cramps in my stomach, stopped to pee twice within the first 2 miles and I was getting completely frustrated.  Chris walked over to talk to me and I lost it. I started crying, telling him how frustrating it is to see how slow and how hard running is when it used to come so easily and I could run much faster than I am now. So here I am sobbing while running on the treadmill!   People must have thought I was nuts.

Needless to say, after 3.5 miles and having a good cry, my last 3.75 miles were faster and pain free.

I also cried Monday when out for a run with Chris. It was the first time in 5 years that he was faster than me and it upset me so much that I started to cry. I told him how upset it made me to see his backside since running is MY thing.   I am the fast one, not him. 

On a positive note, I did run 132 miles for the month of January. 

Boston Marathon Training: Week 4

or should I title it "non-Boston Marathon Training"? 

Last week wasn't what I had hoped for.  5 days of running turned into 3 days of running.  36 miles turned into 28 miles.  and 2-3 x's of strength training turned into a couple days of doing push ups and 1 day of core work.  I wish I had a good reason why last week turned to crap, but I don't.  I was lazy and slacked off.  I chose sleep over running.  I did attend an early morning yoga class that I will be adding to my weekly training/work outs.  So that is a plus!  I also turned a 14 mile run into a 16 mile trail run.  so again, another plus.  But still, not anywhere near the mileage I wanted to be at.  I will definitely use this coming week to get back on track.  No more slacking off!

Here is how last weeks running and training went.

Monday: 4 mile run - treadmill PM at the gym, push ups 4 x 10
Tuesday: core work; modified planks, straight arm planks, side oblique crunches, seated crunches, Russian twists w/ 5lb weight
Wednesday: 8.02 mile run - outside early AM
Thursday: push ups 6 x 10
Friday: yoga class
Saturday: 16 mile trail run - snowy, icy, wet
Sunday: not a thing!  hello laziness!!
Total Mileage: 28.02 miles

Pathetic.

The road to Boston...a dead end?

As I get further along in my pregnancy, the more I am starting to realize that Boston may not happen for me this year.  I've shed many tears over this.  This journey was 2 years in the making and now I may have to bow out.  I know it is only a marathon and I know I can work hard to qualify again but its still hard to swallow.

My dad and husband have both made very valid points on why I may want to consider not going.  I am going to take it day by day because, as of now, I feel great!  I am much slower than I used to be (most long runs being around a 9 minute per mile pace), but otherwise I am running all my scheduled training runs using the same plan I used to BQ.  I have had to omit the tough hill and speed work I used to do, but have supplemented by adding quick pick ups to my shorter runs. 

I don't know.  Part of me thinks I can do this but another part of my thinks that maybe holding off is the best thing to do.  Do I really want to walk majority of the marathon?  Probably not.  But to cross the finish line, earn that medal and buy my 2012 jacket makes me think absolutely, I'll walk for that! 

Only time will tell. 

Boston Marathon Training: Week 3

Another week done.  Although, my road to Boston may be more like a dead end.  I'll get more into that another time.

My shins have really been bothering me lately.  Almost every time I run, they hurt until about 2-3 miles in, then the pain goes away. I've tried everything to alleviate it but I personally think its the pregnancy. I think my body, stride and form is changing to compensate for the extra weight.

Anyway, here is how last weeks training went.  it was a cut back week but I still managed closed to 30 miles.

Monday: 4.5 miles run - afternoon on the treadmill, triceps
Tuesday: 5.5 mile run - AM 2 miles on treadmill, 3.5 miles on indoor track
Wednesday: core work
Thursday: 6.5 mile run - AM treadmill, planks, crunches, push ups - PM
Friday: scheduled rest day
Saturday: 3.1 mile run - AM treadmill, upper body lifting
Sunday: 10.30 mile run outside on the snow covered roads. 
Total Mileage: 29.31 miles
Total Strength Training: 4

I'll leave you with a couple photos taken Sunday after our run.  I am definitely showing!! 

Boston Marathon Training: Week 2

Week 2 of 14 is done.  I am beginning to adjust to my new training style and the affects pregnancy has taken on my running.  This is so different than any training I have done in the past.  My pace is much slower and although I try to do some small speed sessions, my body just won't allow it.  Sometimes I am almost embarrassed to admit how slow I've gotten to be, but then I remind myself that I am carrying precious cargo on every run.  I must go slow to protect the little one. 

Last week certainly wasn't anything to write home about.  I ended up taking 2 rest days and did my 12 mile "long" run inside on the treadmill.  I made sure to get 3 days of strength training/core work in so that is a plus!

Here's how last week wrapped up.

Monday: unplanned rest day
Tuesday: 6.5 mile run - treadmill in the AM, yoga & core at home PM
Wednesday: 8.5 mile run - outside AM, ended up being a great morning for an early run!!
Thursday: 5.5 mile run - treadmill AM, push ups, core at home PM
Friday: scheduled rest day
Saturday: 12.03 mile run - treadmill afternoon, my longest run on a treadmill to date.  it wasn't easy that's for sure!
Sunday: 45 minutes stationary bike, strength training for biceps & shoulders AM
Total Mileage: 32.53 miles
Total Strength Training: 3

And to touch base on the Olympic Marathon trial results, I am so happy with how Desi finished!  I was really hoping she'd pull out the win. The top 3 women I wanted to see make it, did.  The men's race was amazing.  Meb had such a huge lead.  I couldn't believe the paces these men & women ran.  So fast! 

Boston Marathon Training; Week 1

I've got one week under my belt.  My mileage was slightly more than what I have on my training program, but the paces are much slower than what I am used to.  Unfortunately, training for a marathon while being pregnant (I am well into my 18th week) definitely puts a strain on speed.  I am not letting it bring me down though. I am just happy that I am still able to run 5 times a week without having any issues.  My goal is only to finish Boston, not set a PR. 

Monday: 6.61 miles - treadmill
Tuesday: 5.67 miles - treadmill, push ups 5 x 10
Wednesday: 5.26 miles - treadmill, biceps, push ups 5 x 10, core
Thursday: 4.5 miles - treadmill
Friday: rest day
Saturday: 11.60 miles outside w/ hills
Sunday: cross training; 30 minute stationary bike, upper body lifting, core work
Total Mileage: 33.64

and I will leave you with a little something Janae shared in her blog.  Desiree Davila's ridiculously fast 3 x 3 mile repeats. click here to watch the video.

2011 recap

Total miles ran in 2011: 1,841.33

11 races completed;

1- 100 mile relay
1- 50K
2- marathons w/ a Boston Qualifier!
4- half marathons, one being a trail
1- 4 mile race
1- 5K
1- 10K

2/13/2011 Riverview Winter Fest 4 Miles 28:48:00 7:12 pace
3/20/2011 Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon Half Marathon, 1:37:31 7:27 pace

4/2/2011 Martian Half Marathon Half Marathon, 1:37:45 7:29 pace

5/1/2011 Trail Half Marathon Half Marathon, 2:02:10 9:19 pace

5/28/2011 Bayshore Marathon Marathon, 3:28:59 7:59 pace

7/9/2011 Rollie Hopgood's 5K, 21:55 7:04 pace

7/23/2011 Red Eye Relay 100 Miles mixed ultra

8/20/2011 Somerset Stampede Half Marathon, 1:44:24 7:58 pace

9/24/2011 Dances with Dirt Extreme 50K Ultra 6:16:56 12:10 pace (3 weeks pregnant)

10/16/2011 Free Press Detroit Marathon Marathon, 3:45:30 8:37 pace (7 weeks pregnant)

11/24/2011 Detroit Turkey Trot 10K, 48:23:00 7:47 pace

Overall, 2011 was a successful year!  Not only did I set out and accomplish all of my goals, I also received a huge surprise for my birthday; I found out that I was pregnant!  So now I start 2012 off training for the Boston marathon while a little human grows inside me.  The poor baby doesn't stand a chance.  He or she is going to be born with running shoes on his or her feet!!  :-)