This was a very weird week of ups and downs. I started off the week with a naggy hamstring that made it hurt to walk. I swam Monday, then struggled through some crappy, hip tightening runs on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. I was seriously ready to throw in the towel. I felt like I needed an entire new left leg. I could not get through a damn run without my hip tightening up, which triggered hamstring, foot, etc issues. I had a long run planned for Friday and went into it guard up.
Somehow, I had not a good, but great, run on Friday. I didn't think too much about it. But then I had another great double digit run with my friend Rain on Saturday. Two good runs in a row? NO Fin way. I was already signed up to run a 10k in Dripping Springs on Sunday, so I figured it might very well be a crap shoot. I really didn't care: injury has a way of really humbling you and making you BEG to the running Gods: PLEASE just let it be a minor sniggle. NOTHING SERIOUS. You'll do anything for that injury not to be anything major.
So, quick race report. I promised Dan I wouldn't kill myself as he accurately states that I am not capable of running a race without racing. Touche. I drove just over an hour South to race the first Annual Dripping Springs 10k.I swear to god I didn't put any pressure on myself, made even easier when Rogue Running rolled in with their Elite Team to race the 5k and 10k. Well, hello, talk about a wake up call: ERIN YOU ARE NOT THAT FAST. Which, is what I needed. Okay: so sometimes I get caught up with scouting races and racers and not focusing on my race. No good. I always need to be focused on my race. There will ALWAYS be someone faster.
I was 2nd female, 1st ag in 41:38. I'm happy. Not sure that equates to a 3:10 marathon but whateves.
While (I am super picky) I have complaints about this race (no AG group awards) I will say I really enjoyed it. I was really excited to see Ingrid again (who I had met in Bastrop) and her man Steve...I came into this race solo (Dan traveling) so it was really nice to see familiar faces and geek out on running. They are both such awesome people!!! And, you know, that's really what it's all about. The connections we make and the friendships we find. I will never be a professional runner, but I can enjoy and appreciate of the people I've met along the way..
Monday: (AM) 3,300 yd swim at the Rec
Tuesday: Run Group - 8.5 miles. The workout was a progressive tempo on 4x1 mile looped course. Each lap was supposed to be faster than the last: Mile splits were: 7:03, 6:57, 6:54, 6:43
(Lunch): 2,400 yd swim
Wednesday: (AM) 7 mile run @8:04 pace; (Lunch): 2,150 yd swim
Thursday: (AM) Skipped run group and ran solo again - 6.25 miles @8:10 pace; (Lunch): 2,400 yd swim
Friday: (AM) 17 mile progressive long run @ 8:05 pace; (Lunch): 2,220 yards
Saturday: 12 mile progressive run with Rain @7:59 pace
Sunday: Dripping Springs 10k: 3.80 mile wu & cd/6.2 miles @41:38
TOTAL MILES: 60.75
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Friday, September 28, 2012
Things Are Looking Up (?)
A 17 mile run this morning without any hamstring or hip pain (my hips have been tight all week, leading me to think my hamstring issue may have been connected to my hip issues earlier in the year) is enough to leave me on Cloud 9 for the rest of the day (anyone else's mood for the day determined by how they run? No? Just me?)
Splits:
1-8:30
2-8:24
3- 8:22
4-8:07
5-8:09
6-8:16
7-8:11
8-8:15
9-8:07
10-8:02
11-8:19
12-7:59
13-7:54
14-7:56
15-7:43
16-7:44
17-7:30
I think the most encouraging thing about this run for me was that I ran at a comfortable pace throughout and the further I got into the run, the quicker I was ticking off the miles. I finished this run feeling like I could have run further and faster. So, I don't have doubt that I can complete the marathon in two weeks, the big question mark for me is how fast? I am hoping in cooler temps (still hot and humid as heck here), my family there cheering me on, and the excitement of a race environment, that I can come close to 3:10. I just need to spend the next two weeks convincing myself that this number is attainable. I have to go into this race with a strong mental game or my ship will be sunk before I reach the start line.
Of course, this all will depend on how my body cooperates. Even though today's run was great, I don't want to get my hopes up...as I've learned dealing with leg issues is that you never know what each workout will bring. I can only hope for the best.
I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes said by no other than Christopher Robin to Winnie the Pooh (I know you all are probably rolling your eyes here, but it's a good quote!):
 |
| This morning's run |
1-8:30
2-8:24
3- 8:22
4-8:07
5-8:09
6-8:16
7-8:11
8-8:15
9-8:07
10-8:02
11-8:19
12-7:59
13-7:54
14-7:56
15-7:43
16-7:44
17-7:30
I think the most encouraging thing about this run for me was that I ran at a comfortable pace throughout and the further I got into the run, the quicker I was ticking off the miles. I finished this run feeling like I could have run further and faster. So, I don't have doubt that I can complete the marathon in two weeks, the big question mark for me is how fast? I am hoping in cooler temps (still hot and humid as heck here), my family there cheering me on, and the excitement of a race environment, that I can come close to 3:10. I just need to spend the next two weeks convincing myself that this number is attainable. I have to go into this race with a strong mental game or my ship will be sunk before I reach the start line.
Of course, this all will depend on how my body cooperates. Even though today's run was great, I don't want to get my hopes up...as I've learned dealing with leg issues is that you never know what each workout will bring. I can only hope for the best.
I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes said by no other than Christopher Robin to Winnie the Pooh (I know you all are probably rolling your eyes here, but it's a good quote!):
Promise me you'll always remember:
You're braver than you believe,
and stronger than you seem,
and smarter than you think.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Baltimore Marathon Training: Week 12
Obviously Week 12 didn't result in the planned 68 miles due to the snafu with my hamstring. And, oddly I'm at peace with that and not totally freaking out about the status of the muscle attached to the back of my leg.
By the way, thank you for all of your nice comments on yesterday's post. I actually feel better today - both mentally and physically. For the first time in two days, I don't feel any twinge in my hamstring when I walk. So that's something. I am hoping with a little bit more of continued rest from running, the strained muscle will be a thing of the past. I went for a long swim this afternoon and it was so therapeutic. I've really come to love swimming the past few months, and with the pool to myself, I was able to lose myself in my thoughts and swim away frustrations.
I came across the following image the other day and several of these running commandments really struck a chord with me. #2 is really speaking to me right now. As much as it sucks to hit a bump in the road and not know how long it may impede my running, at the end of the day it's just running. There's so much more to my identity than just a runner.
Anyway, last week:
Monday: 2,600 yd swim
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group: 10.8 miles. (Lunch) 2,600 yd swim
Friday: (AM) 5 miles easy, no watch. (Lunch) 2,250 yd swim
Saturday: 2 mile run...fail.
Sunday: 4,100 yd swim. I didn't plan to swim this long...but dang it felt good and my mood was a million times better post swim.
Total Miles: 43 miles
Looks like tomorrow will be another day in the pool. As much as I'd rather be running, I'm thankful for the ability to do something, to know how to swim, and to have pools readily available. How's that for a bright side? I hope everyone has a great week!
By the way, thank you for all of your nice comments on yesterday's post. I actually feel better today - both mentally and physically. For the first time in two days, I don't feel any twinge in my hamstring when I walk. So that's something. I am hoping with a little bit more of continued rest from running, the strained muscle will be a thing of the past. I went for a long swim this afternoon and it was so therapeutic. I've really come to love swimming the past few months, and with the pool to myself, I was able to lose myself in my thoughts and swim away frustrations.
I came across the following image the other day and several of these running commandments really struck a chord with me. #2 is really speaking to me right now. As much as it sucks to hit a bump in the road and not know how long it may impede my running, at the end of the day it's just running. There's so much more to my identity than just a runner.
Monday: 2,600 yd swim
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group: 10.8 miles. (Lunch) 2,600 yd swim
Good strength workout this morning.
Took my legs awhile to wake up - a bit dead legged from the weekend -
but overall ran okay. The workout was 4x200m hill sprints, 2k @ tempo
pace, 4x200m hill sprints, followed by another 2k pace at tempo. The 2k
loop actually had some good hills in it as well.
-4.11 mile warm-up @8:34 pace
-4x200m hills/1 mile/7:33 pace
-2k/1.27 miles/8:44/6:55 pace
--4x200m hills/1 mile/7:33 pace
-2k/1.27 miles/8:41/6:51 pace
-2.17 mile cool down@ 8:17 pace
Wednesday: (AM) 14 miles - Ran the first 8 easy, then dropped the pace below 8 min miles for the last 6. (Lunch) 40 minutes strength/core
Thursday: (AM) Run Group - 11.29 miles. (Lunch) 2,550 yd swim
We did 16 laps of striding the straightaways on the track at a solid clip (10-15 sec/mile faster than 5K effort) and jogging the turns for recovery. Essentially this was 4 miles of fartlek with 100 meters run at your fastest sustainable speed (not an all-out sprint!) followed by 100 meters of slow jogging for recovery. I felt good this morning. I am definitely not used to using that faster gear (which is probably why I over strided and irritated my hammy). I didn't keep individual splits for the 100's but my overall pace was 6:46 which included recoveries so thinking the 100's were low 6's/high 5's?
*4.56 mile warm-up @8:18 pace
*4.05 mile fartlek/27:24/6:46 avg for the workout
*2.68 mile cool down @8:22 pace
-4.11 mile warm-up @8:34 pace
-4x200m hills/1 mile/7:33 pace
-2k/1.27 miles/8:44/6:55 pace
--4x200m hills/1 mile/7:33 pace
-2k/1.27 miles/8:41/6:51 pace
-2.17 mile cool down@ 8:17 pace
Wednesday: (AM) 14 miles - Ran the first 8 easy, then dropped the pace below 8 min miles for the last 6. (Lunch) 40 minutes strength/core
Thursday: (AM) Run Group - 11.29 miles. (Lunch) 2,550 yd swim
We did 16 laps of striding the straightaways on the track at a solid clip (10-15 sec/mile faster than 5K effort) and jogging the turns for recovery. Essentially this was 4 miles of fartlek with 100 meters run at your fastest sustainable speed (not an all-out sprint!) followed by 100 meters of slow jogging for recovery. I felt good this morning. I am definitely not used to using that faster gear (which is probably why I over strided and irritated my hammy). I didn't keep individual splits for the 100's but my overall pace was 6:46 which included recoveries so thinking the 100's were low 6's/high 5's?
*4.56 mile warm-up @8:18 pace
*4.05 mile fartlek/27:24/6:46 avg for the workout
*2.68 mile cool down @8:22 pace
Friday: (AM) 5 miles easy, no watch. (Lunch) 2,250 yd swim
Saturday: 2 mile run...fail.
Sunday: 4,100 yd swim. I didn't plan to swim this long...but dang it felt good and my mood was a million times better post swim.
Total Miles: 43 miles
Looks like tomorrow will be another day in the pool. As much as I'd rather be running, I'm thankful for the ability to do something, to know how to swim, and to have pools readily available. How's that for a bright side? I hope everyone has a great week!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
The post I was hoping I wouldn't have to write....
It's been a shit day.
For starters, I'm not racing tomorrow. I should probably back up to Thursday. We had a track workout - that actually went really well for me - where we were basically doing a continuous stride session. We were sprinting the straightaways and jogging the curves - so 100m hard, 100m easy for 4 miles. I felt great, I ran great. But on the cool down, my stride felt a bit off. My friend Dorothy asked if I was limping? No I told her, I was just tired.
But the rest of the day, I was having a weird pain just above my knee on the back of my leg. Pain behind my knee (not behind knee cap, literally the back of my leg, the back of the knee). I told myself I was just sore. I woke up Friday and headed our for my standard 5 mile Friday easy run. I could still feel it though. The pain wasn't that bad, almost just bothersome. I describe it almost as feeling like my leg got hyper-extended. But I noticed it started to alter my stride. I told myself in denial I WAS FINE and would be fine for my long run Saturday.
Saturday I made it 2 miles before calling it quits. On both the run and tomorrow's relay race. I went up to Southwestern University, where my husband coaches, to see one of the athletic trainers. He says I've strained a muscle. And recommends no running for 10 days. My marathon is in 3 weeks. Unfortunately I don't have the luxury of taking a couple weeks off from running. I have the Baltimore Marathon on October 13 and I can't miss it. Technically, 2 weeks off still leaves me with a week (race week) of Baltimore, but doesn't leave me confident I can PR with that time off.
I immediately questioned the trainer when leaving. I told Dan 'Hey that's the trainer who always babies his athletes. Right? RIGHT?' So, I'm fine with just a few days rest. But, to be honest, I'm not sure. I know this isn't the end all. I know I can still run Baltimore and even drop to the half if need be. It's more abut seeing my family than the race anyways. But still - there's the part of me that is extremely pissed off and bitter. I've been a bitch today to my husband - who's only trying to help - and my dogs - and if you know me, something MUST be wrong with me if I lash out at the dogs, they do no wrong in my house.
While I will probably allow myself to wallow in self despair for 48 hours, I know I am not alone. It’s a shared experience. We have all been there, or are going to be there at some point.
We're big football fans, and I have watched many players get seriously injured during the football season. No doubt others are sitting on ice packs right now too. So think about this… you and, say, dozens of NFL players (and hundreds of other pro athletes) right now are sitting in whirlpools or on ice packs or on some physio’s table, thinking “Ah, shit.”
I'm in good company! If it’s good enough for million-dollar bodies, it’s good enough for me. No matter how much of a badass you think you are, no matter how athletically talented or enthusiastic, your body isn’t made of titanium. You’re soft and pink and mushy on the inside, and all wonders of engineering have limits. That’s reality. And it’s OK.
Check out the video below: I AM A MARATHON RUNNER. I AM INJURED.
If you've had a hamstring injury, tell me all of your secrets for fast recovery!!
For starters, I'm not racing tomorrow. I should probably back up to Thursday. We had a track workout - that actually went really well for me - where we were basically doing a continuous stride session. We were sprinting the straightaways and jogging the curves - so 100m hard, 100m easy for 4 miles. I felt great, I ran great. But on the cool down, my stride felt a bit off. My friend Dorothy asked if I was limping? No I told her, I was just tired.
But the rest of the day, I was having a weird pain just above my knee on the back of my leg. Pain behind my knee (not behind knee cap, literally the back of my leg, the back of the knee). I told myself I was just sore. I woke up Friday and headed our for my standard 5 mile Friday easy run. I could still feel it though. The pain wasn't that bad, almost just bothersome. I describe it almost as feeling like my leg got hyper-extended. But I noticed it started to alter my stride. I told myself in denial I WAS FINE and would be fine for my long run Saturday.
Saturday I made it 2 miles before calling it quits. On both the run and tomorrow's relay race. I went up to Southwestern University, where my husband coaches, to see one of the athletic trainers. He says I've strained a muscle. And recommends no running for 10 days. My marathon is in 3 weeks. Unfortunately I don't have the luxury of taking a couple weeks off from running. I have the Baltimore Marathon on October 13 and I can't miss it. Technically, 2 weeks off still leaves me with a week (race week) of Baltimore, but doesn't leave me confident I can PR with that time off.
I immediately questioned the trainer when leaving. I told Dan 'Hey that's the trainer who always babies his athletes. Right? RIGHT?' So, I'm fine with just a few days rest. But, to be honest, I'm not sure. I know this isn't the end all. I know I can still run Baltimore and even drop to the half if need be. It's more abut seeing my family than the race anyways. But still - there's the part of me that is extremely pissed off and bitter. I've been a bitch today to my husband - who's only trying to help - and my dogs - and if you know me, something MUST be wrong with me if I lash out at the dogs, they do no wrong in my house.
While I will probably allow myself to wallow in self despair for 48 hours, I know I am not alone. It’s a shared experience. We have all been there, or are going to be there at some point.
We're big football fans, and I have watched many players get seriously injured during the football season. No doubt others are sitting on ice packs right now too. So think about this… you and, say, dozens of NFL players (and hundreds of other pro athletes) right now are sitting in whirlpools or on ice packs or on some physio’s table, thinking “Ah, shit.”
I'm in good company! If it’s good enough for million-dollar bodies, it’s good enough for me. No matter how much of a badass you think you are, no matter how athletically talented or enthusiastic, your body isn’t made of titanium. You’re soft and pink and mushy on the inside, and all wonders of engineering have limits. That’s reality. And it’s OK.
Check out the video below: I AM A MARATHON RUNNER. I AM INJURED.
If you've had a hamstring injury, tell me all of your secrets for fast recovery!!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Three Things Thursday
1. I'm running in the Austin Marathon Relay on Sunday on team "No Excuses" with four very fast men. It would be correct in assuming that I will be the weak link on the team, and to be honest, I'm both nervous and a bit stressed out about it. The race consists on 5 legs - a 12k, two 10k's and two 5k's. I am running the second leg, which is the first 10k. I've run this race several times, but this is the first time I've been on a serious & competitive team. Which, I welcome and I know it will push me to run faster. But it makes me nervous to be the slowest person on the team, as I don't want to let everyone down. I also hopefully was clear when joining the team that I am marathon training and therefore plugging this workout in as a speed workout...meaning I am not tapering for this race. I have an 18 miler on tap for Saturday that needs to get done, so I will do the best I can do on Sunday on post long run legs. Hopefully that will be good enough!
2. I think my next goal post upcoming marathons is to try to break 19 minutes in the 5k. I feel like I'm close (19:16), yet so far away. I'm a bit skeptical that I can generate the leg speed needed to break 19 minutes (I am not a short distance kinda gal), but I have also conquered many things in life that I never thought possible (sorry this sounds cheesy), so I can't write this goal off as something unaccomplished without giving it a shot. I've never trained specifically for a 5k so it may be fun to shake things up.
3. Lately I have been waking up hungry in the middle of the night. I've actually had this problem on and off for years, but had gotten to the point where I would just go back to sleep. But last night, I woke up just ravenous. So, I went into the kitchen and was shoveling jelly beans in my mouth at like 2 am. Who does this? Seriously. I don't understand it. I eat plenty during the day and always have a pre-bedtime snack around 7:30- 8:00 pm. Most nights it's a bowl of cereal. So why am I waking up hungry at 2 am? I guess I'm just a fat kid at heart.
And, speaking of food? Do you guys eat before your morning workout? I apparently didn't eat enough this morning before run group because I was mentioning to a friend that I was freaking starving by the end of the workout and must not have eaten enough beforehand. He was surprised I eat before a workout. Do most people not do this? I call it breakfast #1. I cannot get up and workout without eating something. Usually it's a piece of toast with peanut butter and a banana. Today I was out of bananas...hence the hunger? Again, maybe I am just a fat kid at heart.
2. I think my next goal post upcoming marathons is to try to break 19 minutes in the 5k. I feel like I'm close (19:16), yet so far away. I'm a bit skeptical that I can generate the leg speed needed to break 19 minutes (I am not a short distance kinda gal), but I have also conquered many things in life that I never thought possible (sorry this sounds cheesy), so I can't write this goal off as something unaccomplished without giving it a shot. I've never trained specifically for a 5k so it may be fun to shake things up.
3. Lately I have been waking up hungry in the middle of the night. I've actually had this problem on and off for years, but had gotten to the point where I would just go back to sleep. But last night, I woke up just ravenous. So, I went into the kitchen and was shoveling jelly beans in my mouth at like 2 am. Who does this? Seriously. I don't understand it. I eat plenty during the day and always have a pre-bedtime snack around 7:30- 8:00 pm. Most nights it's a bowl of cereal. So why am I waking up hungry at 2 am? I guess I'm just a fat kid at heart.
And, speaking of food? Do you guys eat before your morning workout? I apparently didn't eat enough this morning before run group because I was mentioning to a friend that I was freaking starving by the end of the workout and must not have eaten enough beforehand. He was surprised I eat before a workout. Do most people not do this? I call it breakfast #1. I cannot get up and workout without eating something. Usually it's a piece of toast with peanut butter and a banana. Today I was out of bananas...hence the hunger? Again, maybe I am just a fat kid at heart.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Baltimore Marathon Training: Week 11
This week was a [much needed] step back week, and one where I ended up taking an extra unplanned rest day from running. I hate missing workouts, and coupled with the fact that I am one of the most stubborn people on earth, it was really hard for me to wave the white flag and not run Thursday's scheduled 6 miles.
I felt off all week - extremely tired, heavy legs, a little feverish and I wasn't hitting paces on my runs. Combine this with a stressful work week, and come Wednesday evening I was not a fun person to be around [sorry people].
Originally I was just going to skip run group on Thursday since a track workout was on tap. I knew if I went I wouldn't take it easy because I just don't have the capability to do that in a group setting. So, I decided I would just run easy on my own. Because heaven forbid I miss the 6 miles. I ended up making (what I think was the smart call) and bagged the run completely on Thursday. As much as I beat myself up and feel "wimpy" for skipping a workout, sometimes you just need to know when to say when. And, I will say I felt much, much better for the rest of the week's workouts after lying low on Thursday.
Yesterday I completed my longest run of the cycle and this week is my last high mileage week at 68 miles before taper. I've never been a fan of taper (and to be honest have never really tapered before) but I can honestly say I'm ready for it. I'm plum tired.
Last week:
Monday: 2,600 yd swim/45 min core
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group - 10.59 miles; (PM) 2,500 yd swim
Today's workout was a 6 mile tempo run at half-marathon pace with 30 second bursts at 5k pace every 5 minutes. Unfortunately, I felt like I was running much faster than I actually was. My garmin kept beeping at me to speed up, and I actually screamed at it once "Shut Up!!!!". Some good hills on this course but still I felt like I should have turned out a better effort.
-6.29 mile tempo in 45:33/7:15 avg pace
Wednesday: (AM) 13.06 miles @8:24 pace. (Lunch) 2,600 yd swim
Thursday: (Lunch) 2,500 yd swim
Friday: (AM) 5.04 miles @7:32 pace - easy run with 30 sec pickups. (Lunch) 2,700 yd swim
Saturday: Bartlett 5k - 5.66 miles (combined warm-up and cool down); 3.1 mile race; 2,000 yd swim
Sunday: 22.1 miles @8:12 pace. First 6.5 miles solo, ran the rest with Mick and Rain.
Total running miles: 59.55
Swimming x 6
Core workout x 1
I felt off all week - extremely tired, heavy legs, a little feverish and I wasn't hitting paces on my runs. Combine this with a stressful work week, and come Wednesday evening I was not a fun person to be around [sorry people].
Originally I was just going to skip run group on Thursday since a track workout was on tap. I knew if I went I wouldn't take it easy because I just don't have the capability to do that in a group setting. So, I decided I would just run easy on my own. Because heaven forbid I miss the 6 miles. I ended up making (what I think was the smart call) and bagged the run completely on Thursday. As much as I beat myself up and feel "wimpy" for skipping a workout, sometimes you just need to know when to say when. And, I will say I felt much, much better for the rest of the week's workouts after lying low on Thursday.
Yesterday I completed my longest run of the cycle and this week is my last high mileage week at 68 miles before taper. I've never been a fan of taper (and to be honest have never really tapered before) but I can honestly say I'm ready for it. I'm plum tired.
Last week:
Monday: 2,600 yd swim/45 min core
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group - 10.59 miles; (PM) 2,500 yd swim
Today's workout was a 6 mile tempo run at half-marathon pace with 30 second bursts at 5k pace every 5 minutes. Unfortunately, I felt like I was running much faster than I actually was. My garmin kept beeping at me to speed up, and I actually screamed at it once "Shut Up!!!!". Some good hills on this course but still I felt like I should have turned out a better effort.
-6.29 mile tempo in 45:33/7:15 avg pace
Wednesday: (AM) 13.06 miles @8:24 pace. (Lunch) 2,600 yd swim
Thursday: (Lunch) 2,500 yd swim
Friday: (AM) 5.04 miles @7:32 pace - easy run with 30 sec pickups. (Lunch) 2,700 yd swim
Saturday: Bartlett 5k - 5.66 miles (combined warm-up and cool down); 3.1 mile race; 2,000 yd swim
Sunday: 22.1 miles @8:12 pace. First 6.5 miles solo, ran the rest with Mick and Rain.
Total running miles: 59.55
Swimming x 6
Core workout x 1
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Shiny New PR
Today I ran a 5k in Bartlett, Texas and came away with a shiny new 5k PR - 19:16, besting my previous 5k PR from last November, 19:21.
I ran this race last year, finishing in 19:22 and setting the course record and also running which for me was a PR at the time. Setting the course record earned me $100 last year, and so I went back this year to see if I could break my own record.
As I did, obviously, but so did two very other talented ladies, which is fine by me - I would much rather run against better competition who push me to push myself, then have the easy road. You become a better runner but running with those faster than you.
The coolest thing about this race (other than the nice cooler weather that blew into Central TX yesterday) was the 3 of the top 4 finishers in this race were WOMEN. I think that's freaking awesome. The top two overall runners were women, a fellow male runner I know was third, and I was 4th overall.
The second place female, Meredith, I had met at a race back in June (as she dusted me), and it was really nice to see her again and have someone to chase after. We're both from Northern Virginia and it's always exciting for me to meet someone from back home. The overall winner, was Chris Kimbrough, a local Austin elite runner, who I have always been in awe of. She's a master's runner and also a mother of FIVE who dominates not only the Austin racing scene but also is a strong competitor in the national scene.
Today was a good day for me, not only because of the PR, but because I was really inspired this morning by these two women. I had the opportunity to chat and cool down with them afterwards, and it was really nice to hear their stories. Both are mothers with busy lives, both are talented and super fast. It was really an honor to race with them and inspired me to keep working hard. I'll admit it was a rough week for me with work and workouts, and I've been Debby Downer this week. Today was what I needed to get my fire back. Had they not been there, I would have been lazy, and I would have coasted, but as corny as it sounds they really pushed me to be the best I could be today. I wish I could have that kind of kick in the pants every day!!
I'm looking forward to my next 5k in November (which I'd never thought I'd say - because, well, I've never looked forward to 5ks) to see if I can set a new PR!
I ran this race last year, finishing in 19:22 and setting the course record and also running which for me was a PR at the time. Setting the course record earned me $100 last year, and so I went back this year to see if I could break my own record.
As I did, obviously, but so did two very other talented ladies, which is fine by me - I would much rather run against better competition who push me to push myself, then have the easy road. You become a better runner but running with those faster than you.
The coolest thing about this race (other than the nice cooler weather that blew into Central TX yesterday) was the 3 of the top 4 finishers in this race were WOMEN. I think that's freaking awesome. The top two overall runners were women, a fellow male runner I know was third, and I was 4th overall.
The second place female, Meredith, I had met at a race back in June (as she dusted me), and it was really nice to see her again and have someone to chase after. We're both from Northern Virginia and it's always exciting for me to meet someone from back home. The overall winner, was Chris Kimbrough, a local Austin elite runner, who I have always been in awe of. She's a master's runner and also a mother of FIVE who dominates not only the Austin racing scene but also is a strong competitor in the national scene.
Today was a good day for me, not only because of the PR, but because I was really inspired this morning by these two women. I had the opportunity to chat and cool down with them afterwards, and it was really nice to hear their stories. Both are mothers with busy lives, both are talented and super fast. It was really an honor to race with them and inspired me to keep working hard. I'll admit it was a rough week for me with work and workouts, and I've been Debby Downer this week. Today was what I needed to get my fire back. Had they not been there, I would have been lazy, and I would have coasted, but as corny as it sounds they really pushed me to be the best I could be today. I wish I could have that kind of kick in the pants every day!!
I'm looking forward to my next 5k in November (which I'd never thought I'd say - because, well, I've never looked forward to 5ks) to see if I can set a new PR!
 |
| The Winnings: Coffee Cup & Jelly Beans. The key to my heart :) |
Monday, September 10, 2012
Racin' Fool (or maybe just a fool...)
It's no secret that I love to race. Love, love, love it. I was having this conversation about racing the other day with Dan - he could take it or leave it. In fact, if I didn't sign him up for races, he might never race. But, I crave it for some reason. I don't know what it is about strapping a race number on myself and having a start/finish line, but if I head out on a run on my own, and it's likely I won't really push myself, but put me at a race and it's game on. I like to run, but I love to race.
This is the time of year I really love in Austin: Fall racing. There is literally a race every weekend, and upon a closer look at my race calendar, it appears as I've signed up for them all.
Starting this weekend, I have a race every single weekend through Nov. 11, which is the San Antonio Rock & Roll Marathon. Then I am off from racing until December 9, which I will conclude 2012 with the Bryan-College Station Marathon.
Let's take a closer look at the fun (craziness??) that lies ahead of me:
Sept. 15 - Bartlett 5k
Sept. 23 - Austin Marathon Relay
Sept. 30 - Dripping Springs 10k
Oct. 7 - IMB Uptown Classic
Oct. 13 - Baltimore Marathon
Oct. 21 - Cedar Park 5-miler
Oct. 28 - Run for the Water 10-miler
Nov. 3 - Jameson 5k
Nov. 11 - San Antonio Rock & Roll Marathon
Dec. 9 - BCS Marathon
Anyone out there going to be at any of these races? If so, let me know! Let the fun begin!
This is the time of year I really love in Austin: Fall racing. There is literally a race every weekend, and upon a closer look at my race calendar, it appears as I've signed up for them all.
Starting this weekend, I have a race every single weekend through Nov. 11, which is the San Antonio Rock & Roll Marathon. Then I am off from racing until December 9, which I will conclude 2012 with the Bryan-College Station Marathon.
Let's take a closer look at the fun (craziness??) that lies ahead of me:
Sept. 15 - Bartlett 5k
Sept. 23 - Austin Marathon Relay
Sept. 30 - Dripping Springs 10k
Oct. 7 - IMB Uptown Classic
Oct. 13 - Baltimore Marathon
Oct. 21 - Cedar Park 5-miler
Oct. 28 - Run for the Water 10-miler
Nov. 3 - Jameson 5k
Nov. 11 - San Antonio Rock & Roll Marathon
Dec. 9 - BCS Marathon
Anyone out there going to be at any of these races? If so, let me know! Let the fun begin!
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Baltimore Marathon Training: Week 10
So, week 10. I hit my workouts for the week (for the most part ). I got it done. I made it through my last *big week* of this marathon training cycle. But, to be honest, I am still suffering from some marathon training burnout. I'm getting done what I need to, but to be honest, I have not been the most enthusiastic about my workouts! There's been some pouting. And bad nutritional choices. And moments of doubt. This week is a recovery week, plus a much needed cold front has arrived, so hopefully that will put some pep back in my step!
But - last week:
Monday: (Holiday) 1:00 hr core, 1500m long course swim
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group - 10.23 miles.
But - last week:
Monday: (Holiday) 1:00 hr core, 1500m long course swim
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group - 10.23 miles.
Legs are still a little heavy legged
from this weekend but they cooperated for the most part. Today's workout
was 2x1600 @ tempo pace, 2-6 hill repeats (200m), then another 2x1600 @
tempo pace. The goal was to try and hold pace on the second set of
tempo miles after running hills.
-3.71 mile warm-up @8:40 pace
-1st set tempo miles: 6:54, 6:44
-4 x hill repeats: 1.43 miles/7:54 avg
-2nd set tempo miles: 6:55, 6:56
-1.09 mile cool down @8:56 pace
(Lunch) 2100 yd swim
Wednesday: (AM) 15 miles @8:34 pace. (Lunch): 2200 yd swim
Thursday: (AM) 11.23 miles
-3.71 mile warm-up @8:40 pace
-1st set tempo miles: 6:54, 6:44
-4 x hill repeats: 1.43 miles/7:54 avg
-2nd set tempo miles: 6:55, 6:56
-1.09 mile cool down @8:56 pace
(Lunch) 2100 yd swim
Wednesday: (AM) 15 miles @8:34 pace. (Lunch): 2200 yd swim
Thursday: (AM) 11.23 miles
Today's track workout was 4-10 x 800m @5k pace with a 400m float
@marathon goal pace after each one. This workout was too challenging for
my legs today! I would like to try it again on fresher legs...maybe
after a non-running day. I was over ambitious in thinking I could run
the 800's in 3:06 (6:14 pace) and the recoveries in 1:48 (7:15 pace).
Not happening.
-4.11 mile warm-up @8:30 pace
-8x800's with 400m float/6 miles/41:58/7:00 overall pace.
800's ranged from 6:09 pace - 6:32 pace and recovery floats ranged from 7:27 pace - 8:53 pace (oops).
1. 3:10/1:51
2. 3:10/1:58
3. 3:04/1:59
4. 3:14/2:07
5. 3:06/2:13
6. 3:16/2:02
7. 3:15/2:12
8. 3:15/1:57
-1.16 mile cool down @ 8:47 pace
(Lunch): 2350 yd swim
Friday: (AM) Easy 5 mile run; (Lunch): 2500 yd swim
Saturday: 18 mile run @7:50 pace.
Windy day for a long run. Glad to have company - thanks Rain & Mick! My goal was to run the first half relaxed then run the last 5 miles hard so I could practice finishing strong.
1st 9 miles: 8:12, 8:07, 8:12, 8:10, 8:13, 7:58, 7:47, 8:00, 7:58
2nd 9 miles: 7:44, 7:47, 7:50, 7:40, 7:25, 7:30, 7:25, 7:46, 7:10
(Afternoon): 2400 yd swim
Sunday: 13.7 mile run @8:20 pace
Total Miles: 73.2 miles running; 6 x swims
-4.11 mile warm-up @8:30 pace
-8x800's with 400m float/6 miles/41:58/7:00 overall pace.
800's ranged from 6:09 pace - 6:32 pace and recovery floats ranged from 7:27 pace - 8:53 pace (oops).
1. 3:10/1:51
2. 3:10/1:58
3. 3:04/1:59
4. 3:14/2:07
5. 3:06/2:13
6. 3:16/2:02
7. 3:15/2:12
8. 3:15/1:57
-1.16 mile cool down @ 8:47 pace
(Lunch): 2350 yd swim
Friday: (AM) Easy 5 mile run; (Lunch): 2500 yd swim
Saturday: 18 mile run @7:50 pace.
Windy day for a long run. Glad to have company - thanks Rain & Mick! My goal was to run the first half relaxed then run the last 5 miles hard so I could practice finishing strong.
1st 9 miles: 8:12, 8:07, 8:12, 8:10, 8:13, 7:58, 7:47, 8:00, 7:58
2nd 9 miles: 7:44, 7:47, 7:50, 7:40, 7:25, 7:30, 7:25, 7:46, 7:10
(Afternoon): 2400 yd swim
Sunday: 13.7 mile run @8:20 pace
Total Miles: 73.2 miles running; 6 x swims
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Baltimore Marathon Training: Week 9
Not much to see here, just a recap of last week's training. I'm just over a month out from the Baltimore Marathon - some days I feel confident in my goal to run sub-3:10, and other days I'm convinced it's unattainable. What's so difficult about training through the summer heat is that it's really hard to predict what your times would be in cooler weather (and I'm praying that Baltimore doesn't have some sort of October heat wave - cough Boston cough). I'm at the point where I am definitely over summer and training in the swamp and am just looking for some cooler days where I can put my fitness to the test and see where I really stand. Unfortunately, I won't get many of those before Baltimore so I just have to trust in my training and keep plowing forward.
Anyway...last week:
Monday: (AM) 10.26 miles easy @8:23 pace; (Lunch) 2500 yd swim
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group - 11 miles. Today's workout was a one mile on, one mile off up-tempo run - so we alternated one mile hard with one mile easy x5: 6:41, 8:10, 7:04, 8:07, 6:59. To be honest, I wasn't thrilled with my splits, and it was harder than it should have been. (Lunch) 2500 yd swim
Wednesday: (AM) 14 miles @8:37 pace. The first half of this run I felt horrible, but 7 miles in I felt much better and was able to negative split. I think it's just taking me longer and longer to warm-up these days...probably because I'm old ;) (Lunch) 2100 yd swim
Thursday: (AM) Run Group - 11 miles. Today's workout was 600-meter breakdowns at the track, which was 4 x (600, 400, 300, 200) with 200m jog recoveries. Again, I felt like I was putting in a lot of effort for what I was producing.
600's: 2:12, 2:20, 2:25, 2:24 - ranged from 5:49 -6:24 pace
400's: 1:29, 1:32, 1:34, 1:34 -ranged from 5:59-6:18 pace
300's: 1:07, 1:07, 1:08, 1:09 - ranged from 5:55-6:02 pace
200's: :40, :41, :42, :40 - ranged from 5:37-5:44 pace
(Lunch): 2500 yd swim
Friday: 45 min core/2700 yd swim
Saturday: Long Run - 18 miles @8:26. One day I'll learn my lesson that 7 am is too late to start a run that long. 1600 yd swim
Sunday: 2 mile warm-up + 10k race
Total Running Miles: 72.5
Anyway...last week:
Monday: (AM) 10.26 miles easy @8:23 pace; (Lunch) 2500 yd swim
Tuesday: (AM) Run Group - 11 miles. Today's workout was a one mile on, one mile off up-tempo run - so we alternated one mile hard with one mile easy x5: 6:41, 8:10, 7:04, 8:07, 6:59. To be honest, I wasn't thrilled with my splits, and it was harder than it should have been. (Lunch) 2500 yd swim
Wednesday: (AM) 14 miles @8:37 pace. The first half of this run I felt horrible, but 7 miles in I felt much better and was able to negative split. I think it's just taking me longer and longer to warm-up these days...probably because I'm old ;) (Lunch) 2100 yd swim
Thursday: (AM) Run Group - 11 miles. Today's workout was 600-meter breakdowns at the track, which was 4 x (600, 400, 300, 200) with 200m jog recoveries. Again, I felt like I was putting in a lot of effort for what I was producing.
600's: 2:12, 2:20, 2:25, 2:24 - ranged from 5:49 -6:24 pace
400's: 1:29, 1:32, 1:34, 1:34 -ranged from 5:59-6:18 pace
300's: 1:07, 1:07, 1:08, 1:09 - ranged from 5:55-6:02 pace
200's: :40, :41, :42, :40 - ranged from 5:37-5:44 pace
(Lunch): 2500 yd swim
Friday: 45 min core/2700 yd swim
Saturday: Long Run - 18 miles @8:26. One day I'll learn my lesson that 7 am is too late to start a run that long. 1600 yd swim
Sunday: 2 mile warm-up + 10k race
Total Running Miles: 72.5
Monday, September 3, 2012
Bastrop Burning Pines 10k Race Report
Sunday I raced the Burning Pines 10k in Bastrop.
But, let me back up. After some hemming and hawing, I decided to move forward with my planned long run on Saturday. I had 18 miles on the schedule but was debating skipping it due to general fatigue and a race on Sunday. But, I realized that I needed to keep my eye on the big picture which is a PR at the Baltimore Marathon and not Sunday's race. So, I knocked out 18 Saturday morning, went for a shake out swim, and headed downtown to pick up our race packets for Sunday.
When I got to packet pick-up, there was a big sign that said 'Are you ready for some hills?'. I thought 'Oh Shit' my legs are going to hate me, but didn't worry too much about it because sometimes people's definition of a hilly course doesn't really equate to being that hilly. Unfortunately, there weren't lying. I thought the 10k I did in Lampassas was the hardest 10k I've ever done, but no, this one took the cake. The race was inside Bastrop State Park and the hills were like "small mountains" as a friend so aptly described.
This race sold out at 1,000 people a few days before the race. There was a 10k and a 5k and with the 10k being a 2 loop course and the 5k being a 1 loop course. The 5k was set to start 15 minutes after the 10k, and my immediate concern became congestion for the faster 10k runners on the second loop who would run into the 5k walkers. Turns out this was a very legitimate concern.
We arrived at the race start with plenty of time and I headed out for my normal 20 minute warm-up which I always use as a course preview. About 2 steps into the warm-up, I knew this wasn't going to be a PR course. Even with fresh legs, I would have been slower than my recent 10k times. A volunteer remarked that I was crazy for warming up on this course. Wasn't I going to get enough of the hills later? Well, yes I was.
So, the results. I was first female and 5th overall in 43:14 (6:58 pace). Despite a shoelace coming untied that cost me a few seconds and a near miss of the finish line, I doubt I could have come in much under 43 min. I felt a little deflated crossing the finish line and seeing a 43:xx on the clock, but I knew it was by far the toughest 10k course I've run. And, a friend who actually won the race, won with a winning time of 40:32...and this guy is normally a 37-38 minute 10ker, so times were about 2:15-2:30 slower....so, I am hoping that means I could run sub-41 on an easier course. We'll see in a few weeks.
Okay, onto the race itself. There were a lot of issues - I want to cut them some slack since it was a first time race and it was for a good cause, but feel they should be addressed for those considering this race next year. Plus, as a race director I am super picky about races so take what I say with a grain of salt.
1. Course Congestion: A 2 loop course with 1,000 runners and two different races going on at once (5k and 10k) was a mess. I flew through the first loop without any issues, but just after the start of the second loop, it became a mess and I was faced with herds of 5k walkers. Nothing against walkers - because I think everyone deserves mad props for being out there - but it was extremely difficult to navigate and weave back and forth through walkers, especially those walking 5-6 abreast, and not get frustrated. What really irked me was the water stops. I couldn't get water at any of the water stops on the second loop without literally knocking someone out of the way, and I didn't want to be that person. When it's a high of 104 with 99% humidity I kind of need water. They need to fix this for next year. The 15 minute lag time for the 5k made it even worse. Either start the races together or start the 5k after the 10k.
2. Finish Line: The finish line was an absolute shit show. First, I literally almost ran right by the finish line after being mis-directed by volunteers...and several people literally did miss the finish line as I watched with my own eyes. The volunteer was supposed to direct 10k runners who are headed out on their SECOND loop to stay straight and 5k and 10kers finishing their second loop to the finish. Instead they were saying "5k right, 10k straight (pass the finish). I know as a runner it's our responsibility to know the course but when you are in the zone and shouting out "10k where do I go" and they still mis-direct you, it's kind of frustrating. I missed the initial turn towards the finish but luckily after a deer in headlights moment, I realized that it must be where I was supposed to turn and it only cost me a few seconds (unlike others who literally had to back track).
3. Awards: The awards were also a mess. They did 5k awards first, then 10k awards and presented the overall awards LAST for both. So, I was dead last in getting my award. I don't have a problem with that, but what I did have a problem with is that they gave me the wrong award...and not to be greedy, but I was supposed to get a $50 gift card and they gave me a 5k trophy instead. I actually wasn't going to be a complete bitch and say anything, but Dan said I should. So, I went back up there and they gave me my gift card but had given my trophy to someone else. I'd much rather have the gift card over the trophy anyway, but still that should not happen.
My race: I decided at the last minute not to wear my Garmin for this race and run by feel, and I am glad that I did. After coming off a long run Saturday and wrapping up a big week mileage wise, I didn't want to be focused on my pace, I just wanted to leave it all out there, whatever pace that may be. I felt like I ran a solid race, and to be honest as much as I hate hills, I am a strong hill runner so I think that played to my advantage. With the weaving on the second loop, I know it was slower than my first loop, but I stayed strong on the hills up until the last one where I was just done and had to slow my pace.
The Good: Despite the snafus, this race ended up being a really good deal. They ran a one day special where you could actually sign up for $15. You can't beat $15 for a chip timed 10k. Also, with your entry you got a nice shirt, a free beer and a sausage wrap. Plus, I dig the $50 gift card to a running store that overall winners received. They had a big festival afterwards with a nice music line-up, and even though we didn't stick around, I thought that was a nice touch.
And that wrapped up a 72 mile week. Onward and upward!
But, let me back up. After some hemming and hawing, I decided to move forward with my planned long run on Saturday. I had 18 miles on the schedule but was debating skipping it due to general fatigue and a race on Sunday. But, I realized that I needed to keep my eye on the big picture which is a PR at the Baltimore Marathon and not Sunday's race. So, I knocked out 18 Saturday morning, went for a shake out swim, and headed downtown to pick up our race packets for Sunday.
When I got to packet pick-up, there was a big sign that said 'Are you ready for some hills?'. I thought 'Oh Shit' my legs are going to hate me, but didn't worry too much about it because sometimes people's definition of a hilly course doesn't really equate to being that hilly. Unfortunately, there weren't lying. I thought the 10k I did in Lampassas was the hardest 10k I've ever done, but no, this one took the cake. The race was inside Bastrop State Park and the hills were like "small mountains" as a friend so aptly described.
This race sold out at 1,000 people a few days before the race. There was a 10k and a 5k and with the 10k being a 2 loop course and the 5k being a 1 loop course. The 5k was set to start 15 minutes after the 10k, and my immediate concern became congestion for the faster 10k runners on the second loop who would run into the 5k walkers. Turns out this was a very legitimate concern.
We arrived at the race start with plenty of time and I headed out for my normal 20 minute warm-up which I always use as a course preview. About 2 steps into the warm-up, I knew this wasn't going to be a PR course. Even with fresh legs, I would have been slower than my recent 10k times. A volunteer remarked that I was crazy for warming up on this course. Wasn't I going to get enough of the hills later? Well, yes I was.
So, the results. I was first female and 5th overall in 43:14 (6:58 pace). Despite a shoelace coming untied that cost me a few seconds and a near miss of the finish line, I doubt I could have come in much under 43 min. I felt a little deflated crossing the finish line and seeing a 43:xx on the clock, but I knew it was by far the toughest 10k course I've run. And, a friend who actually won the race, won with a winning time of 40:32...and this guy is normally a 37-38 minute 10ker, so times were about 2:15-2:30 slower....so, I am hoping that means I could run sub-41 on an easier course. We'll see in a few weeks.
Okay, onto the race itself. There were a lot of issues - I want to cut them some slack since it was a first time race and it was for a good cause, but feel they should be addressed for those considering this race next year. Plus, as a race director I am super picky about races so take what I say with a grain of salt.
1. Course Congestion: A 2 loop course with 1,000 runners and two different races going on at once (5k and 10k) was a mess. I flew through the first loop without any issues, but just after the start of the second loop, it became a mess and I was faced with herds of 5k walkers. Nothing against walkers - because I think everyone deserves mad props for being out there - but it was extremely difficult to navigate and weave back and forth through walkers, especially those walking 5-6 abreast, and not get frustrated. What really irked me was the water stops. I couldn't get water at any of the water stops on the second loop without literally knocking someone out of the way, and I didn't want to be that person. When it's a high of 104 with 99% humidity I kind of need water. They need to fix this for next year. The 15 minute lag time for the 5k made it even worse. Either start the races together or start the 5k after the 10k.
2. Finish Line: The finish line was an absolute shit show. First, I literally almost ran right by the finish line after being mis-directed by volunteers...and several people literally did miss the finish line as I watched with my own eyes. The volunteer was supposed to direct 10k runners who are headed out on their SECOND loop to stay straight and 5k and 10kers finishing their second loop to the finish. Instead they were saying "5k right, 10k straight (pass the finish). I know as a runner it's our responsibility to know the course but when you are in the zone and shouting out "10k where do I go" and they still mis-direct you, it's kind of frustrating. I missed the initial turn towards the finish but luckily after a deer in headlights moment, I realized that it must be where I was supposed to turn and it only cost me a few seconds (unlike others who literally had to back track).
3. Awards: The awards were also a mess. They did 5k awards first, then 10k awards and presented the overall awards LAST for both. So, I was dead last in getting my award. I don't have a problem with that, but what I did have a problem with is that they gave me the wrong award...and not to be greedy, but I was supposed to get a $50 gift card and they gave me a 5k trophy instead. I actually wasn't going to be a complete bitch and say anything, but Dan said I should. So, I went back up there and they gave me my gift card but had given my trophy to someone else. I'd much rather have the gift card over the trophy anyway, but still that should not happen.
My race: I decided at the last minute not to wear my Garmin for this race and run by feel, and I am glad that I did. After coming off a long run Saturday and wrapping up a big week mileage wise, I didn't want to be focused on my pace, I just wanted to leave it all out there, whatever pace that may be. I felt like I ran a solid race, and to be honest as much as I hate hills, I am a strong hill runner so I think that played to my advantage. With the weaving on the second loop, I know it was slower than my first loop, but I stayed strong on the hills up until the last one where I was just done and had to slow my pace.
The Good: Despite the snafus, this race ended up being a really good deal. They ran a one day special where you could actually sign up for $15. You can't beat $15 for a chip timed 10k. Also, with your entry you got a nice shirt, a free beer and a sausage wrap. Plus, I dig the $50 gift card to a running store that overall winners received. They had a big festival afterwards with a nice music line-up, and even though we didn't stick around, I thought that was a nice touch.
And that wrapped up a 72 mile week. Onward and upward!
 |
| Big nerd on the podium |
 |
| Oh there's the finish line... |
 |
| With friend Bill Schroeder, the overall male winner. He's sharing his trophy with me :) |
 |
| My #1 race sherpa! |
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