Kelly – Page 9 – Run Read Repeat

RunDisney Princess Challenge Recap 2020

In February of 2019 I declared that I was going to run the Fairytale Challenge in Disney World in 2020. That means running a 10K (6.2 miles) on Saturday and a Half Marathon (13.1 miles) on Sunday. This was going to be my first half marathon. Long story short if you take a look at the race recap section you’ll see once I started running I didn’t stop and this was ultimately by second half marathon.

In the week leading up to going to Orlando my level of stress was high. It’s flu season after all. At both of my son’s schools it seemed like everyone was sick. I knew that if they got sick I couldn’t possibly leave them. As luck would have it everyone stayed healthy and on Thursday, February 20th I made my way to Orlando. After checking into my hotel I made my way to the Expo.

What is the Expo?

The Expo is where your running shopping dreams come true. Imagine three buildings at ESPN World Wide of Sports- one with exclusively RunDisney merchandise, one where you pick up your bib and can take pictures with the giant mile signs for each race. Finally, another building where you pick up your race shirt(s) and vendors with anything from running shoes, to graphic tanks, headbands, race specific Pandora and so much more.

The Expo opens Thursday morning at 10:00 AM. I arrived at approximately 3:00 PM. Other than waiting in line to enter the exclusively RunDisney merchandise building there were no lines. You could easily spend hours pursuing the various booths. I limited my purchases to:

Saturday, February 22, 2020-10K

The weather was unseasonably cold in Orlando. I’m talking in the 40s kind of cold. The 10K started at 5:30 AM. Since I was staying at the Contemporary I was able to take advantage of the RunDisney transportation to the starting line near Epcot. But that also meant being outside waiting for the bus at 3:00 AM. The weather prediction vs. the reality were two different things. Originally, it was supposed to be in the 50s at the start of the race. Clearly, this wasn’t the case. Fortunately, I brought shorts and pocket light n tights as options for bottoms but had planned on running in a tank and bringing long sleeves to “throw away.” (Actually RunDisney collects the discarded items, washes and donates them.) Change of plans. I wore my tank, put my “throw away” long sleeves on and then added my Bomber Jacket for waiting in the corral.

While waiting in the corral can be tedious, it’s also an amazing chance to chat with other runners from all over the country or world. As we approached go time, I removed my “throw away” shirt and put my Bomber Jacket back on. After the first two miles or so I warmed up and I was good to go. Along the route there were characters, music and photographers to capture the perfect running photo. This was the first time I was racing back to back days. But truth be told, I don’t know how to “take it easy.” While I didn’t want to run hard as I knew I was running a half marathon on Sunday the weather was perfect for setting a good pace.

The route was mostly surrounding and within Epcot. It was a fun course. I didn’t stop for character photos until I spotted Mickey Mouse on the Boardwalk. There were only two people in line so I figured it would be quick. I jumped in and out of the photo and it was well worth it. My boys thought it was the best thing ever.

Since the race started at 5:30 AM, it was dark for nearly my entire run. I finished well before the sun was up. I felt good the entire run and finished in 53:48.

While running is a very personal sport. It’s about doing better than the race before, right?? This happened to be a PR (personal record) but then I was curious and started looking at how it measured up against the other runners. Let’s take a look:

There were 12,572 runners in the 10K. I finished 308th.
There were 10,728 female runners. I finished 168th.
There were 1681 women in my age group. I finished 38th.

Holy smokes. Not only was I personally pleased with my overall time and race, but look at those number.

What did I learn?

The Bomber Jacket is literally amazing. I might have mildly panicked when I didn’t have along sleeve performance shirt with me since the weather shouldn’t have required it. The Bomber fit the bill. No chafing and provided me with the extra layer that I needed.
When traveling for a race….alway pack a long sleeve performance shirt regardless of what the weather is saying.
You can stop for a picture with Mickey and still PR.

February 23, 2020- Half Marathon

Day two waking up at 2:30. Somehow it was easier the second day around. Transportation to the Half Marathon was via Monorail vs. bus. This was so much easier!! The weather was also 10 degrees warmer. So that meant it would be in the low to mid 50s for waiting in the corral and running. Ideal for running, a tad bit chilly for waiting. However, following the 10K they gave out mylar blankets. You better believer I brought that with me Sunday morning. Especially, since my plan was to run in just a tank I knew I would need the mylar to stay warm without the benefit of a jacket.

Based upon the proof of time that I had submitted I was in the second corral to start the race. I felt good, despite the 10K on Saturday and couldn’t have asked for better running weather. But…there’s always a but. You know how you have that nervous energy before a race and you think you have to go to the bathroom, but you really don’t?? Guess what sometimes it’s not just nervous energy and you really do have to go to the bathroom. So despite using the glorious johnny on the spot with a half hour of starting the race, I had the urge to pee just as we started that I was sure would go away…alas it did not. Translation, I spent the first 4 plus miles trying to reason with my brain that I was going to have to stop and waste precious time. At last I made the call to stop in Magic Kingdom and guess what, it did cost me approximately 2 minutes. Killer!

But I digressed. The start of the run is leaving Epcot and heading toward Magic Kingdom. Again there is music and characters along the route. Keep in mind it’s also well before sunrise so it’s dark as well. The start of the run was along the roadways leading up to Magic Kingdom. One of the amazing parts of the Princess Half Marathon is that you run Main Street and through Cinderella’s Castle!!

Taken on Friday in anticipation of running Main Street on Sunday

In anticipation of the much needed pit stop I ran hard the first half to try add some cushion to time. I was on pace for a PR and wanted to keep it that way.

Such a fun experience to coming running through the castle

After exiting the Magic Kingdom we were back on the roadway leading back to Epcot. The temperature remained perfect and it was beautiful to watch the sky change color in anticipation of sunrise. That said I was hitting miles nine and ten my calves began to cramp a bit. Up until that point I had just had some water during the run. To give myself some extra energy I went to my tried and true Honey Stingers. They gave me the boost I needed.

The last three miles I was watching the clock. I knew that short of something crazy happening I was going to beat my half marathon time from October by approximately four minutes. Despite the calf cramping, I dug deep. I knew I didn’t go all that way to leave anything on the table, I had to go all in. And that’s what I did pushing to a 1:54:34 time! A PR by nearly four minutes..

Truth be told, I didn’t feel fabulous right after I finished. I thought that I was going to get sick. I made my way over to a trash can right past the finish to catch my breath and if I got sick at least get sick in the trash. I could hear my high school cross country coach in my head “if you get sick you know you ran a good race.” I was most impressed with the medical staff on site as someone immediately came over, to me; looked at my bib; asked me by name if I was OK. When I indicated I just needed a minute, he gave me the time to compose myself and then I was fine.

Let’s take a look at how my time compared to the other runners:

There were 20,492 runners. I finished 562nd.
There were 17,518 female runners. I finished 325th.
There were 2847 runners in my age category. I finished 67th.

What I learned:

I need to pack a bag for waiting in the corral. For example, I need to bring a blanket, mylar is a must, snacks and water.
Always go to the bathroom one last time before the race starts.
Running through the castle is AMAZING!
I can run races on back to back days.
Time to sign up for more races!

My RunDisney weekend was amazing. I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity and support of my husband and children. If you have the chance to participate in a RunDisney race…do it!! Enjoy it. Take all the pictures to remember the experience!

Planning your Princess Half Weekend

Photo credit rundisney.com

Last year I watched in awe as a group network marketing friends shared their experience at the Disney World Princess Half Marathon weekend. I was determined to run with them the following year, meaning February 2020. Translation later this week!! But if you are new to RunDisney like I was, the process was a little overwhelming. If you aren’t familiar with the various RunDisney races they SELL OUT!! So for me this added to my want to race anxiety and to get registered and reserve a room early.

So what did I do?? I did what I thought made the most sense. I stalked the website for when hotel rooms would become available to make reservations. I learned you could make reservations by phone 499 days before for a room only. Score. So I called and reserved my room. I figured I was half way there. Easy, breezy.

June 4 was the magical day that registration for the Princess Half weekend opened. I sat down at my computer at the appointed time and you guessed it, I sat in the queue. My friend, sat in the queue. We texted with our anxiety. What if one of us got in and the other didn’t?? After what literally seemed like forever I was able to complete my registration.

It all worked out right? I got registered for the race. I secured a room at a very good rate. I was able to add park tickets and photo pass and all of those things. But why did I give myself extra stress?? Well, because I didn’t really know the system. I thought I knew but I didn’t. So here’s what you can learn from me and avoid the same stress.

What if I told you that you could secure your race bib for the 2021 Princess Half Marathon during the Half Marathon weekend THIS YEAR??! Say what?? Right, it really doesn’t have to be as complicated as I made it out to be. So did you know that there are select Travel Agents that are registered with Disney? They basically have magical powers. Not only can they plan a fabulous Disney vacation for you and your family/friends, but they can also secure race bibs a year out. Or any time during that year before while supplies last. What does that mean?? That means that during the Princess Half Marathon Weekend an agent registered with Disney could call and register you for the race for next year. (Bib fee due in full at the time of booking) So if you are having some serious FOMO watching everyone run this year. Book now for 2021.

What else can they do?? They can also book a room, that can be turned into a package and any promotions that are announced later can be applied when applicable. ($200 deposit due at the time of booking) You also get all the perks of a Travel Agent, such as: guidance in planning, suggestions for schedule, making your dinner and Fast Pass Reservations and trouble shooting any problems that might come up. I know, I know, you can do it all on the internet by yourself. Believe me, I’ve done it…you know 3:00 AM while nursing a baby trying to make dining reservations for TEN PEOPLE. It’s doable but again it’s more stress for you. But if you prefer to do all your own reservations for meals and Fast Passes, etcetera that’s okay too. The Travel Agent’s services are there if you choose to utilize them but you aren’t required to do so.

This sounds too good to be true- what does it cost??? There’s no additional cost to you!! That’s right. You don’t pay any more and you get first rate service from a Disney Registered Travel Agent.

Who can I contact to plan my next trip??? Well, I’ll be using my friend Meghan Campbell the next time for sure!! All this serious Mom Guilt about going to Disney without my family has me thinking hard about a Spring Break trip next year. You can find her over on Facebook or send her an email.

So learn from my stress, contact Meghan today to make the planning as Magical as the trip to Disney!

Ultimate RunDisney Packing Guide!

Call me crazy, but I love to pack for a trip. Unpacking, not so much but packing is my jam. Why?? It involves lists and organizing. This is my wheel house!! Let’s start with some general packing tips:

1) Use packing cubes! Packing cubes have been a game changer in my packing. Each family member has their own color. Which means we can share luggage when we travel because we know whose stuff is who by just looking at the color of the packing cube. There are a couple of different ways to utilize packing cubes:

Pack each day in a packing cube. What does that mean? Everything you need for that day- top, bottom, undergarments, socks, shoes.
Group items together in a packing cube. For example, all socks in one cube, underwear in another cube, shirts in one, etc. This is the method I utilize when packing.

2) Make a list! No really, make a list. Even if it’s a trip you’ve packed for previously it’s helpful to have a list. This doesn’t mean you have to recreate the list each time. For example, we travel fairly frequently with our two boys. We’ve traveled since they were babies. I had a master packing list so as to not forget simple things. That’s what prompted me to create a master packing list for the Princess Half Marathon Weekend.

3) Lay everything out BEFORE you start packing! In order to maximize space when packing and to make sure you don’t forget anything it’s helpful to lay everything out and then begin packing.

When it came time to pack for the Princess Half Marathon weekend 2020 I was determined to carry on only. It’s rare that I travel alone and I wanted to keep it simple. I should note that I factored in that I will likely acquire a few things at the Expo and souvenirs for my kids along the way. So I also packed an empty bag inside my larger carry on bag just in case I could get everything back in for the return trip. While this trip will involve a flight for me I gained some running packing experience when we traveled to the Baltimore Half Marathon in October. So without further ado here’s my Ultimate Run Disney Packing list:

A list of must have items for a trip to Disney to run a race.

Let’s break down the packing list just a bit:

Race Items

Running Shoes: You should plan for one pair of shoes for each race you are running. Why?? Well, weather is one factor. No one wants to start a race in shoes that are wet. Unforeseen issues with your shoes are another reason. Even though you shouldn’t race in overly worn shoes…things happen. My go to running shoes are:

New Balance Women’s 1080v10 Fresh Foam Running Shoe.

PS you should only be using your running shoes for running so plan to bring another pair for in the parks!!

Socks: Here I’m suggesting two pairs for each day. Why?? Again I’m thinking about Florida and the potential for rain. So if the weather is calling for rain I would wear one pair and keep the other pair in my gear check bag or in my waist belt. Then change to a dry pair right before the race starts.

Sports Bra: My hands down favorite sports bra is the All Star Bra from Zyia Active. I’m planning to travel in one and have packed one for each race day. Stylish, supportive and non-chafing you couldn’t possible ask for anything more from your sports bra.

Costume/Running Clothes: Keep in mind that you shouldn’t wear anything new on race day. Test any costume or running gear your plan to wear before race day. When it came to planning my racing outfits I opted for Disney inspired tanks from Raw Threads (use the link for 20% off your first order!) I went with a Mary Poppins Tank for the Half Marathon and Toy Story- Buzz and Woody for the 10K!!

Raw Threads is usually at the Expo so you can check them out there if you haven’t decided on your race day gear. Another important thing to keep in mind is that the Florida weather can be tricky regarding temperature and humidity. The long range forecast has changed at least three time in the last week. So I’ve planned a variety of bottom choices to go with my tanks. In an abundance of caution I have two bottoms planned and packed for each day. My absolute favorite running shorts: the Mesh Energy Shorts from Zyia Active. These are my go to for all warm weather running. Breathable, comfortable and chafe free!! I’ve run multiple races in the Mesh Energy Shorts and couldn’t be happier. But since the races go off at 5:30 in the morning I’ve also packed my go to running tights Pocket Light n Tight Capris from Zyia Active. I’ve previously run several races including a Half Marathon in capri length light n tights so I know that they are also a dependable choice. I actually prefer them because I prefer to keep my phone in the pocket, rather than in my waist pack. But that’s just my personal preference.

Water/Fuel Belt Truth be told, I would rather not have to run and carry my own water and/or fuel. But if I have to wear a belt the Spibelt Running Belt is my go too. I’ve added an additional pocket to mine. So I wear one in the back and one in front. The idea behind this is to keep those items that you won’t need at all during the race in one. i.e. ID, phone, insurance cards, cash, credit card. Then put items you will want to access in the other pouch such as race nutrition, tissues, chapstick.

Race Fuel: This is another thing you want to test out before race day. While you would imagine something could upset your stomach you would be surprised!! During your training experiment with different kinds of fuel to get a sense of what gives you the boost you need during your run. My favorites are from Honey Stinger. While they offer a variety of items from waffles, to gels, the gummy chews are my favorite.

Phone/Device for Music: I know many say that you should enjoy the sights and sounds of a race without music. But I personally need music to keep me moving!

Headphones: While training I alternate between Aftershokz for outdoor runs and AirPods for indoor runs, race day calls for Aftershokz all the way. You can truly hear what’s going on around you while at the same time enjoying your music. While the concept of sitting outside your ear appears strange at first the sound is still incredible and again I can’t stress the importance of being aware of the people around you to stay safe during a race.

GPS Watch/Charger: I’m slightly obsessed with keeping track of my time, pace and heart rate during a run. My first device for running was my Apple Watch. I wear it every day all day. So it’s natural that I would also use that for tracking my runs. But then I also started running more and wanted additional analytics. So it’s possible that I run with my AppleWatch on one wrist and my Garmin on the other. Whatever your preference don’t forget your watch and charger!

Small Bag/Backpack: While you will get a clear plastic bag at the start of the Expo. I prefer to bring my own small bag or backpack to make it easier to store items as I collect them and to keep my hands free.

Foam Roller: Since I’m opting for carry on only. I’m breaking this rule a little bit. Rather than bring my larger foam roller, I’m bringing my Foot Roller/Massager instead. I’m hoping this will do the trick until I get home and I can foam roll!

Post Race Shoes: After a race I cannot wait to take off my sweaty socks and shoes!! It’s not so much that they hurt as much as they just want some fresh air!! Olukai Women’s Sandal are in my post race gear bag for warm weather races. They are supportive and kind to my post race feet!!

Light Jacket: I generally try to avoid running in the rain at all costs. But we can’t guarantee that race day will be dry. While if it’s a really bad rain nothing is going to truly keep you dry, I’d like to do my very best for a light rain. So I’ve added the White Bomber Jacket from Zyia Active to my bag. Lightweight and breathable with strategic ventilation this will get it done for a light rain. Plus it doubles as a light jacket for the parks.

Visor/Headbands/Hair Tie: So I don’t usually run with a hat because it makes me overheat. However, I wear glasses and back to my rain contingency plan I’ve packed a visor with the thought that the brim will help keep the rain out of my face and the fact that it’s a visor and not a hat will cut down on the overheating. My hair is really too short to pull into a pony tail so I opt for headbands when I’m running. I picked up some cute one from Sweaty Bands before heading to Disney. PS they will be at the Expo!!

Ziploc: Seem random? Never leave home without some baggies. Why?? Back to my apparent obsession with the rain. Put your phone in a baggie to keep it dry during the race. Need to ice after the race?? Make yourself an Icepack. Don’t want to fight with the package for your race nutrition put them in a baggie. See…you need to pack baggies!!

Body Glide/Vaseline: Truth be told I have not yet had to use body glide or Vaseline when I’ve run. Then why is it on my list. Yup, just in case of rain you know I’ll be coating my feet in Body Glide in a valiant effort to avoid blisters!!

Miscellaneous/Disney Specific items These are pretty self explanatory and many of the same things you would pack for a non-running Disney trip. As a mom, I must travel with snacks even if my children aren’t with me so I’ve of course added snacks to my bag. My water bottle is attached to me at all times. As hydration is key I’ll be sure to bring it along. In addition to water I enjoy Arbonne Fizz for a pick me up and PhytoSport for before, during and after my run.

The key to packing is to be organized, while bringing the necessities without overpacking. It’s a very delicate balance. Happy Running and safe travels!!

Half Marathon Training that Works!

If you are anything like me you look to the internet for a craft, a review on a product, a recipe, etc. so it would make sense that when I was preparing to run my first half marathon that I would look to find a guide online. But I didn’t just want any plan I wanted a plan that I trusted and I could make work for my schedule. As a busy mom of two young boys there are only so many hours in the day. However, if I could “schedule” my runs/cross training then I knew I could get it done. I’m the kind of person that if it is on my calendar than it’s much more likely to get accomplished.

As I researched plans, I also learned so very much from my friend Suzy Goodwin, of Run-Lift-Mom Podcast about the minimal effective dose in training. What does this mean?? It’s means while training and cross training doing the most to effectively train while at the same time not overtaxing your body to prevent injuries. Much of what I am sharing I’ve gotten from her years of experience and have found it to truly work for me!!

At the time of this writing I’m about to complete my third half marathon training cycle. This was also my most complete training cycle and the one that I felt the best. It’s a combination of keeping to the mileage training schedule, cross training twice a week and taking a closer look at what I’m eating each day.

Let’s break it down. Each week has a KEY RUN. This is the run that the most important for the week. It could be a speed workout or a long run. We will get more into the specifics below. Each week also has TOTAL MILEAGE. You can make up the total mileage any way that works best for you. For example, let’s say the total mileage goal for the week is 20 miles and the key run is 8 miles. Once you’ve completed your key run you can make up the additional twelve miles any way that works for your schedule. Maybe it’s three -4 mile runs or two- 6 mile runs. You do you and what works best for you.

So before you get started you are going to want to get a wall calendar or a desk calendar. I happen to use a spiral bound planner that has a monthly, daily/weekly view and pencil. Why? Because I’m also using it as a journal as such to document how I’m feeling during the course of my running, as well as goals for each race etc. Why the pencil? Well, because life happens. I might think I’m going to run 5 miles on a Wednesday morning but really I only run 3 miles and then I need to adjust another run to make up the mileage. I would rather erase it and make it look pretty then have a bunch of cross out marks. The alternative to this is to use Post It notes to write in your projected runs for the week and move them around on your calendar as your week develops. Then you can write in on the calendar after you complete your run/cross training.

Here’s a look at what I mean:

So let’s break down the routine that I have been following. I look at my running week Monday through Saturday. In general, I try to get my key effort done at the beginning of the week so I know psychologically that I have it done! That’s not always the case because frequently Saturday is my long run day, so it entirely depends on the week. So I usually run on Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday. On Tuesday and Thursday mornings for thirty minutes I work one-on-one with a trainer for weight and cross training. You’ll notice that above I don’t really commit to I run this on this day, that on that day. That’s the beauty of this plan. Once you complete your key run you make up the remaining mileage when it works best for you. Truly this is the only plan that I could add to my already full calendar. It gives me total control over getting my miles done when it works best for me. Take a look:

Why the sharp decline in miles from week 8 to week 9?? That period of time is known as a taper. It’s a chance for your muscles to heal after the course of the training cycle and for your body to rest. It’s also one of the hardest part of the training cycle for me. I’m so amped up and ready to go but I also know I need the rest.

Why add weight/cross training to the schedule?? To be an effective runner you need to build strength and muscles beyond those that you are using for running. Think core, gluts, hamstrings, etc. Here are my personal examples of how with training has helped me combined with the schedule above:

In preparation for my first “long” race a 12 mile run I had terrible hip pain in my right hip. It would feel mostly fine when I ran but would be extremely painful after a run and for the days following. I cut back on the miles and did not complete the outline training plan. The only time I felt relief was during the taper period. This hip pain continued through my next training cycle and again I had to cut back on miles before completing the full plan and the only time I had relief was during the taper period. My trainer determined my hamstrings were incredibly tight and this was causing the pain in my hip. Over the course of four months and into the start of a new training cycle he developed a serious of exercises and stretches to work on my hamstrings.

Guess what, this training cycle I made it all the way through. I had no need to cut back on miles and even better no hip pain. Combining the above training routine and weight training I’ve also seen a sharp decrease in my per mile time. As in nearly a minute a mile. Clearly, everyone will have different results and you should only do what you feel comfortable with and what is right for you but this plan has been working for me. I hope it will work for you too!

If the shoe fits, wear it!

Truth be told I do 99% of my shopping online. It easy and shipping with most places is so quick that it’s not worth a trip to the store. One thing that MUST BE PURCHASED IN THE STORE…RUNNING SHOES!! My recommendation find a local running store. My go to here in Maryland is Charm City Run. The have locations all over the state, are super helpful and I get to shop a small business!! But, here’s really why going to a reputable store is key for getting running shoes:

They are going to watch you walk barefoot. So that they can see your gait and arch. This will allow them to make a recommendation of what type of shoe you should consider that matches your body and mechanics.
They are going to size you! I’m normally a 6.5 in shoes. So I had I ordered running shoes online I would have certainly purchased a 6.5. My running shoe size is an 8. Yes, an 8. There is no chance had I not been properly sized and had it explained to me that the additional room in the toe box is necessary to accommodate for swelling and such that I would have EVER purchased a size 8 running shoe.
You can ask them questions. I’ve been wearing New Balance shoes for the last year. Same model through the various new releases. I have several pairs and I’ve never had a problem. I could take them out of the box and run ten miles….I know this because I did it this summer. Anyway, my point is that they were my shoes, no problems. Until, recently when I’ve started to have some arch pain. I mildly panicked. So what did I do…I went to see my friends at Charm City Run. I explained my situation and what I thought I was looking for in a shoe. I tried on two other pairs of shoes and ultimately bought something other than my beloved New Balance. I’m not going to lie, they were the ugliest running shoes ever. But if they felt good I would have worn them. Note: you aren’t buying running shoes that look pretty. You are buying running shoes that fit your foot properly.
Many retailers (including Zappos- but remember you want to get fitted in a store!) offer a try on period that allows you to return worn shoes if they aren’t the right fit. I just took advantage of this for the first time. I gave those shoes I purchased the run test. Ran in them three times. Ran about 15 miles in them. Ran outside and on the treadmill. Guess what?? They were not the right shoe for me. I was getting pain in a completely different place on my foot. So what did I do? I headed back to Charm City Run.
They want to get it right. They want you to be in the right shoes as much as you want to be in the right shoes. So I met with a super helpful woman. I explained that I had been in days before, what I had purchased, how I had run in them, etc. Her response: “sounds like you need an insole, rather than a new shoe.” But she went through all the steps with me. I walked so she could see my gait and arch placement. She sized me. I tried on yet another different pair of shoes. Ultimately, I wound up back in the New Balance 1080. This time the 10th edition. But with an insole. We tried multiple insoles to get the right feel. I could immediately feel the difference. Now I’ll put these new shoes and insoles to the 14 day test. I’m hopeful this new combination is going to be exactly what I need!

Last Minute Entry- Chanukah Hot Chocolate 5K- December 8, 2019

Thursday, December 5th I said to my husband, I think I’ll run that 5K on Sunday. It’s close and convenient. Originally we had talked about all going as a family but our oldest had a commitment in the morning so I decided to just go alone. So Friday at 4:00 PM, I registered. Friday at 6:00 PM my oldest spiked a crazy high fever that he would continue to run throughout the weekend and into the next week. With little sleep and Mom guilt I got up and out on Sunday morning for the race. I really had no plan throughout 2019 as to what races I would run, as I found them I signed up if they worked for our schedule. But I had never decided quite so last minute to run a race.

This was the first time I would run a 5K since June. Much had changed since June. In June I had been running for just about three months. I had not yet started to go to the trainer and it was my first race in nearly twenty years. Fast forward to December of 2019. I had been running consistently for nearly ten months. Going to the trainer for five months. Not to mention I had run several longer races. The temperature was also significantly different. As opposed to hot and humid it was quite chilly!!

Off I went, with the promise of “Mommy Snuggles” when I returned. Oh, and yes, he wanted to know if I was going to win this one too. I knew there was a chance I could be first overall female. But I gave my usual response, of trying my best!

The race was run primarily on the campus of the local Jewish Community Center. It was much hiller than I was expecting it to be but it was a good course. There were approximately 150 other runners. At the start I might of been taking inventory of the other women out there that morning and who I thought was in my age category. Race, running is a personal sport and I simply wanted to beat my time from June. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t competitive. Another woman and I went out basically together. Here’s where running is a mental sport. She was slightly ahead of me for the first mile and a half. But I was staying with her, could see her. However, I convinced myself that she was 1) a more seasoned runner and 2) was clearly faster than me. Do I know either of those things for certain…absolutely not. So I pushed on but I also resigned myself to the fact that I couldn’t catch her. Turns out she finished 31 seconds faster than I did. So what’s that 10 seconds a mile. Seemingly not much, but in reality a pretty good amount when you consider the following:

I had hoped to finish in under 25:00.
I ran 3 miles the day before in 25:50
I finished the race in 24:27.
I finished the June 5K race in 26:57

So rather than focusing on what it would have taken to be first overall female, I focused on:

The amount of time I took off my time from June…2 minutes and 30 seconds!!
The fact that I hadn’t run a 24 minute 5K in A LOT OF YEARS!!
Oh, and I won my age category so my kids still think I won.

In all seriousness, I don’t know if I could have run any faster than the 24:27. That was already shaving a considerable amount of time off my other times. But I do know I got into my own head during the race. Whether that changed the outcome or not I don’t know. I’m still super proud of my finish, had a fun time and rounded out my first running year back with a great race!

12 Miles isn’t a Half Marathon- Baltimore Run Fest 13.1- October 19, 2019

The day after I finished the Charles Street 12 a friend said “how about we run the Baltimore Half Marathon?” I paused and thought then reached out to my friend Suzy Goodwin (She has an amazing Podcast. If you don’t know her you should!! http://runliftmompod.com). In addition to being a friend, she’s my go to for my running questions among other things! The question this time: “is seven weeks between big races too soon?? Should I run a half in October?” The resounding response: “Absolutely!” That was all I needed to hear.

The plan: A reverse taper. Basically the week after the Charles Street 12 I would have a week of active recovery. What does that mean?? It means I didn’t run for a few days- four to be exact but I continued with my training sessions twice that week. The following week I picked up with my running. I ran three miles a few times that week, then I took my ten week plan and backed into it from the October 19 race date. And the training continued. As the mileage increased I started to have some serious right hip pain. I worked with the trainer and we determined that my hamstrings are VERY tight. We continue to work on the hamstrings, foam rolling and stretching.

Race Weekend

Despite the 12 mile run just weeks before this race was different. It was a huge running festival with a 5K, Half Marathon, Marathon and Relay. There were going to be thousands of runners. So it was a BIG DEAL. The unknown in regards to logistics makes me nervous. So my first big race made me full of nerves. We decided that rather than get everyone up crazy early on race day we would stay down town in Baltimore at a hotel right near the start of the race. So we packed up our two boys ages 4 and 6 and our mini-Goldendoodle, Ruby and turned race day into being tourists in our own city. Earlier in the day I ventured down town with my oldest to go to the Expo. We were both excited and took in all the sights and sounds. I got my t-shirt, bib, along with a few extra goodies along the way! Yes, I stocked up on Honey Stingers and some race specific Pandora.

Picture with Blue the Crab while waiting for the expo to open

That night we went down before dinner. Got settled…yes everyone and the dog. The boys thought it was amazing to stay in a hotel so close to home. We enjoyed an early dinner and went to bed early too. But I slept TERRIBLY. Much of it was nervousness. Much of it was a dog who was used to traveling years ago and isn’t used to hearing sounds during the night that are part of staying in a hotel. But the major plus was waking up and being able to just be at the start of the race. You could literally see it from our hotel.

Race Day

Did you race if you didn’t do a flat lay??? The weather in Maryland can be unpredictable in October. Let’s be real, it is always unpredictable. I had originally planned to wear shorts but then the temperature was such that it was going to be in the forties so I switched to capri pants. Again, after consulting my good friend Suzy when I had a wardrobe panic moment. So here you see some of my running favorites. My go to running gear is from Zyia Active (https://www.myzyia.com/KELLYBLAVATT/) Stay tuned for a dedicated blog post all about my love of Zyia and why I became a rep. But you can see I went with capri running tights, a supportive sports bra, tank and a head band. You’ll also see I wore a “throw down” long sleeve shirt at the start of the race that I quickly discarded.

The tricky thing for me for race morning was the start time. I’m a rise with the sun or before for the sun and run kind of runner as I try to get my run done before the boys are even awake. With the other races happening that weekend the Half Marathon didn’t go off until 10:00 AM. I ate my normal pre-run meal which at the time consisted of Kind Peanut Butter Bar and a banana along with some water but worried about how the later start would change my performance.

Right before the start of the race. All smiles but truly full of nerves!

The time came to head to the start of the race. As you can see it was a beautiful sunny day. It was cool, but as I would quickly learn not quite as cool as I thought it was going to be. My husband and boys walked me to the starting line. At that point there were races still going on around as. The half marathon would meet up with the marathon and marathoners were coming through the streets surrounding the start. So my support team wished me well and went for their own walk and to occupy themselves while they waited for my return. As has happened with every race I’ve ever run, I then had to go to the bathroom again, despite having just gone. The line for the porta potties was ABSURD. So I ran back to the hotel and used the restrooms there. Before I knew it, it was go time!

Running and racing is just as much mental as it is physical. If you are like me and run by yourself (I actually enjoy it!) you have A LOT of time to think and talk to yourself. You also have the ability to get into your head. I had told my trainer my goal was for a sub two hour half. Based upon my time at the Charles Street 12 just seven weeks before he wasn’t so confident that was a realistic goal. I knew my average mile had to be less than 9:20. I also knew that I had to consistently keep that pace. I was also having serious mom guilt. I had packed up my family for a night away from home. They were walking around keeping themselves occupied so that I could run 13.1 miles…for fun. I didn’t want to disappoint them. Really, I wasn’t disappointing them. They could care less what time I finished, it was me that would be disappointed. Right before they went off to explore I joked with my husband…you know they are going to have someone here to engrave your medal with your time. “You should do it,” he said. My response…”only if it’s a sub 2 hour time.” That’s just to give you some sense of the self imposed pressure.

But I digressed. The race was hillier than expected. And the temperatures warmed up more than expected as well. It was still far from hot. But I felt good. In the final weeks of training I had been dealing with some serious hip pain. Fortunately the taper time allowed it to feel better and I was feeling good during the race. Some runners can run by feel- some need to monitor their watch. I fall into the monitor my watch camp. With each passing mile split, I knew I was still on target for a sub-two hour finish. But I also knew not to count my chickens before they hatched. I kept pounding the pavement, hydrating as best I could at the water stops, popping my Honey Stinger Chews every four to five miles. I also kept looking around to see how the City had come out to support the runners. There were so many supporters with signs, water and spirit willing us on. There were also the messages from family and friends that were popping up on my watch cheering me on what sometimes felt like a silly endeavor.

The night before when we drove down to the hotel we saw a sign for Mile 12. Immediately following the mile marker was a huge hill. As we drove up it all I could think was oh man, that’s not going to be fun to run. But I was wrong, when I got to mile 12 I felt like I still had energy to give and I was ready to finish strong. Don’t get me wrong, I was hot and tired but I was ready to run hard and finish strong.

I’m not sure if you read my race recap on the Charles Street 12, but when I finished that race I was early and no one was really ready for me. So once I got up that monster hill following Mile Marker 12 I wiggled my cell phone out of my tights pocket and called my hubby’s cell. He answered and was clearly worried. “where are you?” Me: “I just passed mile marker 12, get ready to cheer me in.” You realize that it wasn’t so much for me that I needed to the cheering, as much as I knew the boys were anxiously waiting and had been patiently waiting that whole time. I also knew it was going to be much more crowded and I might not be able to spot them. So I wanted them to know I was on my way.

After the call, I looked at my watch, saw the time and then I just ran. I ran hard. I ran with all that I had and I finished strong. My final mile was forty seconds to a minute faster than every other mile of the race I worked hard for and I wanted that sub 2 hour time and I was going to get it.

The finish line came in sight. I tried so hard to find my cheering squad. While I didn’t see them, I knew they were there. And you know what- they did see me and cheer me on to a 1:58:18 finish.

There was a holding area just for runners after you finished. You got your medal, some water and fruit. I quickly got my medal, banana and water. The plan was for Jeff and the boys to meet me right outside the running holding area. I waited, enjoying my water and banana then I saw them. The boys running towards me yelling “Mommy, you did it!” While I was certainly proud of my race, I was so proud that they were there to see me do it and support me. To think I had suggested just going myself was crazy. We’ve now made running a family event!

By nature of it being my first half marathon it was a personal record (PR). But since I also beat my goal time I felt the need to ring the bell. You could not wipe that smile off my face!! So yes, I most definitely got my medal engraved.

So how did the numbers play out for overall results:

There were 6903 runners in the half marathon. I finished 1378/6903.
There were 3724 female runners. I finished 449/3724.
There were 527 runners in my age category (35-39) I finished 60/527.

Race post script:

We went to a friends house for a party after the race. Yes, home, showered and party. That’s the way I roll. At the party I was chatting with a gentleman who said you will run a marathon. You’ll do a few more half marathons but then you’ll do a full marathon. Make sure you select which one carefully. Throughout the race when we met up with the marathoners all I kept thinking to myself was “I’m never going to run a marathon.” But wait just a second, I certainly would have never thought that I would run a half marathon, so maybe never say never?? More to come!

The race that I should have never run. Race for Our Kids- October 6, 2019 10K

Remember that Half Marathon I’m planning to run in February of 2020. Well, you can submit a proof of time for your corral assignment. No proof of time and you are automatically in the last corral. I was so happy with my Charles Street 12 time and certain that it would qualify for a proof of time submission….wrong!! Granted it’s an odd distance twelve miles, but come on. You can submit a 10K or half marathon time but not an odd twelve mile time. I have a half scheduled for October 19, 2019 but I don’t want to leave everything up to that race.

Leading up to the October 6, 2019- 10K I was sick all week. Like, I should have gone to the doctor I probably could have used an antibiotic kind of sick. Instead I was popping Advil Cold and Sinus and hoping for the best. When Saturday morning rolled around I HAD NO BUSINESS BEING OUT OF BED, FORGET ABOUT RUNNING A 10K!! But I’m guessing you can imagine where this is headed. I needed that proof of time submission and therefore come hell or high water I was running this race. Off we went as a family to the Maryland Zoo, where the race would start and finish. The bonus to this race was that the boys and my husband were going to get to do a family 1 mile run/walk around the zoo while I ran. After the race we could then go and explore the zoo. We had our usually conversation in the car. “So, Mommy are you going to win this one?” “No, sweetie. Mommy isn’t going to win, she’s just going to try her best.” In my head, I’m just going to try not to kill myself out there today so we can go see the penguins and the new giraffe exhibit.

While there were lots of race participants for the 5K and the Family walk/run the field for the 10K was sparse. The course was hilly and through a challenging section of Baltimore City. While I tried to pick a runner or two to stay with after the first two mile or so I found myself running basically alone. There was the front pack (not me) me and then everyone else behind me. I felt lousy the ENTIRE RACE. At the 5K mark I started truly questioning my sanity. The last mile or so of the race the 10K runners began to meet up with those running the 5K. I also spotted a woman that I knew had started the 10K with me. Now I began to access how old I thought she might be. After all, while I wasn’t going to win the race, I could still try to win my age category, couldn’t I?? I ran hard the last mile. Ran past the woman in the purple leggings for a time of 53:50. PS she wasn’t in my age category she was in the one below me but she still gave me the push I needed to finish strong a race that I should have never run!

So how did my time shake out with my expectations. My healthy expectations would have been to finish in 54:30/55:00. Based upon how I was feeling I would have been happy to finish in less than an hour. Given the fact that I felt truly miserable I was super pleased with my time. How’d I place overall?? I was first in age category. Woohoo! So I did kind of win, right? Overall I was 20th out of 65 runner. For a race I wasn’t going to run and shouldn’t have run seems like it all worked out well!

What did I learn?

I should have skipped the hat. I was afraid it was going to rain. It didn’t and the hat made me hot.
I really can run faster than I though.

The itch for a longer race

My first “real” race and likely the best race photos EVER!

By way of a reminder, my training started in February of 2019 because I wanted to run the Disney Princess Half Marathon in February of 2020. Yes, a full year later. After doing my first 5K I knew that would certainly not be my first “long” race. A friend and I started chatting about the Charles Street 12 on August 31st. A twelve mile run, the day before my soon to be six year old’s party seemed like a crazy idea. So, of course…sign me up!!!

What did I start to do differently??

A little bit of history. I ran track and cross county in middle and high school. Yes, I took a um twenty year hiatus but I still remembered that strength training was an integral part of practice and success. So, once the kids were settled into camp, I scheduled my first appointment with a trainer. Mind you, we had a membership for nearly a year and I hadn’t stepped foot into the gym and now here I was showing up and meeting with a trainer. Spoiler alert, I’m not coordinated. This is something my trainer would quickly find out and kindly adjust our workouts to meet me where I was at the time. Another fun fact- I can laugh at myself. And did I do a lot of laughing as I realized how my balance was lacking, my overall strength so so. You get the point. I was still very much out of shape and basically starting at the beginning. So I started working with the trainer twice a week for thirty minutes. My plan was to have him teach me some things so I could lift twice a week to strength train and call it a day. Well, it’s been months and I’m still going twice a week and don’t anticipate stopping any time soon.

Back to your regularly scheduled program

I followed a half marathon training program to get ready for the Charles Street 12. It was summer and it was HOT. So that meant getting up and out early if I wanted to run outside versus on the treadmill. I adhered to my training schedule strictly (because that’s how I roll). I experimented with nutrition. I learned what didn’t work…i.e. fastest run home to get to the bathroom and what nutrition gave me the boost I needed on these longer run. (Honey Stingers are my go to!)

Over the course of the training I started to experience some pain below my left knee and in my right hip. The pain in my leg wasn’t my knee, but right below and you know what…it hurt badly! So badly that I found myself sitting with ice really wondering what in the world I was doing to myself. Fortunately, the real pain came as I was preparing to taper (cut down on my miles) before the race. During the taper period I kept my runs at an easy pace and I saw the pain in my hip and leg lessen.

Race Day– August 31, 2019

The weather the end of August/beginning of September in Maryland can be hot. I was fortunate and it wasn’t too hot but it was more than 70 at race start time and definitely humid. Hydration would be key! As expected I was a total ball of nerves. A friend dropped me off at the start and my husband and boys were going to meet me at the finish line. I worried, would they find a place to park? What would my husband do with them for so long while I waited? You know still “Momming” while preparing to run my longest race to date. My goal time was 1:57. It seemed reasonable based upon my training runs and the fact that it was my longest run…EVER!

The joke about the Charles Street 12 is that it’s down hill. Having driven the course the week before I had confirmed that it was in fact not downhill until pretty much the end. It’s still a great course. A course that took me past the Baltimore County Courthouse, where I worked for nearly a decade, through the campus of Towson University, where my brother in law and sister went to school, and as I got closer to the finish past University of Baltimore where I went to law school. So basically, it was like a run down memory lane.

How did I feel during the race?

HOT!! The answer is hot. I was overheated just about the whole time. I used water stations more to douse myself with water than to drink water. Another side note, I generally spill more water on myself than I get in my mouth. My nutrition was working for me. It gave me the boost I needed as I was running. As much as I try to run by feel, I was watching the clock a bit. My pace was faster than anticipated. But I worried whether I would have enough in the tank to get across the finish line.

Ah, I reached the downhill portion of the race. Honestly, at that point there’s less than two miles to go. My longest training run was ten miles so I was entering unchartered territory. But I also knew I was getting closer to the finish and was going to come in well below my anticipated finish time. Did I mention I was really hot?? I continued to feel very overheated throughout the race.

As I made my approach to the finish line I anxiously began looking for my husband and boys. After all, they had been waiting for me all that time I didn’t want them to miss me. Out of the corner of my eye I spotted my son and his friend and her mother (her dad was running too!). My husband was fetching something for our youngest who was in the stroller (you know because he was HOT). I was early and no one was expecting me. I called out to them and it took them a few moments to register that it was me. They cheered me across the finish line to a finish of 1:52:28. Five minutes or so below my anticipated completion time.

Competitive nature

Let’s be real for a moment: I know that I am certainly not the fastest runner. I’m not even the fastest in my age category. But you know what, I’m competitive. I want to know how I shook out against my peers in addition to pushing myself to get the best time possible. So here are the numbers:

9:22 per mile pace

559/1904

221/1080 female runners

80/388 female runners 30-39

What did I learn??

I’m faster than I thought.
I can run longer distances than I thought.
I want to run more longer races!!
Get headphones that are connected. I dropped one of EarPods during the race and nearly got trampled when I innocently bent down to pick it up.
I had no desire to eat after I finished. I enjoyed my luke warm beer and plenty of water.
Having the support of my family along this journey is priceless!

June 2, 2019- KSDS 5K

In the early morning hours of June 2nd we rode as a family to what would be my first official race after I rediscovered running in February of 2019. A race to benefit a local school. While, not a huge race it was still the first time I was going to compete. Real talk: I’m very competitive and was not quite sure what I was capable of doing beyond a training run.

As my husband drove, our three year old and five year old were in the back seat. They peppered me with questions. How far was I going to run? Could they run too? Wasn’t it too hot to run? How long would it take me to finish? And on and on. Then the question of all questions from our oldest, “You’re going to win the race, right Mommy?” I admired his confidence in my abilities. At 37 years old, having not run for nearly twenty years and having just started running again three months before, winning was the farthest thing from my mind and certainly not on my radar. My goal was to finish in 30 minutes. Based upon my training runs that seemed like a reasonable outcome. My response, “Well, Mommy is going to try her very best but she’s definitely not going to win.” My son struggled with this response, how could I do my best and my best not be good enough to win?

We arrived at the school and instantly the wave or pre-race nervousness came upon me. Anyone else familiar with feeling like you need to go to the bathroom one hundred times before a race starts even though you just went and certainly do not have to go again??

It was hot that morning and I was really concerned with overheating. Even though I had no expectations, let’s be real I had expectations for my finish. The horn sounded and we were off. There was one female runner ahead of me and I stayed with her as long as possible. Rather than drink at the water stations I was pouring water on myself to try to cool off. I ran harder than I had imagined. While, I lost sight of the first female I continued to push through the run, surprising not only myself but others who didn’t know I could “run like that.” As I came around the corner to the finish, my boys were waiting and beyond excited. They started running along side me as I came across the finish line. Time: 26:57. Much better than my goal of 30 minutes. It was good for a second overall female finish and to win my age category. My son’s response “see Mommy, I told you you were going to win.”

What did I learn?

This was the first of what would become many races. I had the running bug. I loved the feeling of having a great race and knew I wanted to do it again.
Shortly after the race I proudly posted my race results. I’m a runner, it’s what we do, we share our results. If we don’t share our results, did the run or race happen??? A family friend who is a physician pointed out my average heart rate was high. I knew I had worked hard and it was hot that morning but I hadn’t paid much attention to my heart rate. After that comment I pay careful attention during everyone run.