Giveaway: Chicago F^3 Lake Half Marathon

One of the best ways to stay motivated as a runner is having a race firmly planted on your calendar. This especially holds true over the winter months. As soon as I finished my last race, I realized my upcoming calendar was oddly empty of running events. For a variety of reasons, I've tried to avoid "filling the weekends", but it quickly became obvious that I needed a new goal to cling to. My running shoes (and waistline) were depending on it.

Thus, the F^3 Lake Half Marathon, presented by REM-Fit appeared on my radar.

The timing was just right, and it came well-recommended by a friend in Chicago. Now you might question my idea of "timing"... January 24 in Chicago? Mid-winter in the Windy City?  13.1 miles of snow and cold?  To me, that sounds like the perfect challenge to keep my booty moving thru the holidays and well into the New Year!  (If you're not up to 13.1 yet, there is also a 5K option.)

If you're not sold on the challenge, how about the perks!? Check out what's included in your entry...

• Beanie Hat with pom
• Tech Gloves (my personal favorite!)
• Finisher's Medal with built-in bottle opener
• Free Photo Downloads
• Pre and Post-Party at the Union Club inside Soldier Field.
• First Pint of Beer courtesy of Goose Island Brewing Co.
• Hot Cocoa and other treats provided by sponsors

But most importantly, the bragging rights that come with running in the dead of winter along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. 

#Boom. 

Instant Bada$$ Runner.

I invite you to come "Run With Jess" on January 24th along the Chicago Lakeshore.  Enter below for a chance to WIN a free race entry + a bonus gift (the new REM-Fit Active, a sleep and activity tracker).  Or register now -HERE- utilizing discount code CAEB15 for $10 off your entry.

ENTER TO WIN A FREE RACE ENTRY

Plus a BONUS GIFT from REM-Fit!
Enter via Rafflecopter app below...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Race Recap: Peoria Marathon Relay

There are some races that you just can't pass up. No matter where you live, your hometown race is probably one of them.  It's like one big family reunion... because running friends are the family you pick for yourself. There is magic in those shared miles and trials.

The Peoria Marathon (also known as Run River City) is quickly becoming that 'can't miss' race in my city of Peoria, IL.  I had so much fun participating in the 2013 inaugural race that I vowed to return.  For the second year, I put together a women's relay team to cover the 26.2 distance. I'm typically not a fan of relay races, but in this particular race, I enjoy moving around the course and seeing my runner friends of all speeds at different mile markers.  It's the best of both worlds - I get to cheer and run!

This year, I created a team with three other ladies from our Sole Sisters running club. The hardest part was coming up with an outfit idea and team name before we could register.  Finally, we agreed on Rainbow Racers - a name built soley around these rainbow-colored checkered flag skirts.

The skirts were ordered from Sparkle Athletic.
I designed the logo and Runner Decals made an iron-on for our shirts.

This past Sunday, May 18th was finally race day!  There was so much excitement and nerves in the air leading up to the Peoria Marathon. When you're part of a team, there's just something inside that makes you want to perform your best - not just for you, but for the whole team. Going in, I knew I was the slowest on the team, but just hoped to give it an honest effort.

Sole Sisters group photo before the race.

The Peoria Marathon, relay and half all started together at 7:00am.  The 5K would start 30 minutes later and the kids mini marathon kicked off at 12noon. A lot of races in one day!  It was ideal race weather - in the 50's and beautiful sunshine.  Crystal lined up at the starting line for our team and set us up nicely from the beginning. She ran leg 1 in 52:39 (8:08 pace), and then handed off to Missy.

Crystal handing off to Missy

At the first exchange zone, we got a peak at our competition by watching the batons run by. Competing in the open women's division, we were counting how many female-to-female exchanges came before us... one... with a second right by our side.  Missy took over to run leg 2. She had the big Main Street hill to climb, but killed it in 53:25 (8:18 pace).

At the second exchange zone, Missy handed it off to me. We were officially halfway done at mile marker 13.  There's something about a baton that makes me sprint - perhaps a little leftover gear from the high school track? By time I was a couple blocks down, it felt like my heart was going to explode. With a quick glance at my Garmin, I realized I was indeed sprinting... a 6:40 pace my Garmin said! Holy smokes, I didn't even know I could do that!  Mile 1 - 8:50

The first half of my 10K leg was flat and very enjoyable. At first, there was a quiet stretch through neighborhoods and then entering into the pretty shaded Bradley University area. I run these streets often and felt right at home. We zigzagged back and forth, making it easy for my hubby and kids to catch me at three different spots.  Little Girl jumped out to run a block with me every time I saw them.

I love that we are perfectly in stride here...

The marathon course reconnected with the half marathoners by Bradley Park. For the next 2 miles, it was real fun passing people and seeing a lot of my friends in the final portion of their 13.1.  By far, this was my favorite part of my leg.
Mile 2 - 9:01 
Mile 3 - 9:12

At mile 17, the full marathon turned off and headed up North Street. I drove this portion of the course the day before, so I knew it would not be heavily spectated nor would it be easy.  There was a gradual climb up North Street that lasted about a half mile. It wore on me and I plugged in my music for some push. My mantra was "just keep working". I just wanted to give my best, knowing my team was waiting for me.
Mile 4 - 9:36

The course was pretty sparse at this point, but every once in a while, someone would pass me. We turned onto Loucks Ave and there was another climb up to reach the Sheridan intersection... again, not an awesome part of town so very sparse on spectators through this section. But halfway up the hill, I heard my hubby's voice. There he was at the top of the hill yelling at me with a bullhorn in one hand and a camera in the other.  Gotta love that guy!
Mile 5 - 9:35

Little Girl out to run with me once again... and again, we are perfectly in stride!

It seemed like I reached the final turn onto Isabell Ave all too sudden. I knew this section well, as it's part of my running route from the gym. I knew I didn't have much mileage left until the exchange zone.  I putzed with my ipod and found my "bring it in" song. Powering up the final stretch of my leg, there were a bunch of cheering spectators through this nice neighborhoods.  Mile 6 - 9:30  I tried to give a finishing sprint before handing the baton off to Karen.
My Leg 3 - 56:56 (9:19 pace)

So relieved to hand that baton off. Go Karen Go!

Karen killed the last (and longest) leg of the marathon in 53:47 (7:36 pace).  We met her downtown for the last 1/4 mile of the route.  The course narrowed and we got caught up behind a shirtless male relay team.

Excuse us fellas... get out of our way!

I guess there are worse problems than being trapped by half naked men... but hubby was trying to get a picture of our whole team running. We slowed down to get the money shot...

 Official Chip Time 3:36:50

8:17 avg pace

2nd place Open Womens Division (out of 25)

12th place Overall Relay (out of 85 teams)

I had so much FUN running with these incredible (fast) ladies!

We hung out cheering in fellow runners for hours after our relay finish. The kids mini marathon didn't start until 12noon and you know I couldn't miss that!  My kids had trained for 8 weeks, compiling their 25 miles before race day. On Sunday, they ran the final 1.2 miles to complete their marathon!!

Big Girl and Little Girl kickin' it down the finishing stretch!

Look - Their medals are BIGGER than mine!

The 2nd annual Peoria Marathon was a blast!  Yes, I will be back again next year. I hope you will join me in MY town for this great race.  I was delighted to see several Marathon Maniacs and 50 Staters on the course. This marathon will easily become a destination race, and continue to grow every year.

Tiger Trot 5K - Race Entry Giveaway!

When it comes to 5K races, I love small town events. Maybe it's because I grew up in a small community, but there is such a cozy feeling about running amongst friends... and groups of kids darting around the course to cheer you on. It's pure fun without all the whoopla of big city races.  No parking concerns, no crowds, no fuss... just run. Oh, and my standing 5k PR is from one of those itty bitty small town races.

The Tiger Trot 5K is one of those small-town races that I highly recommend. Last year, my husband and I switched roles for a day... he ran the race and I cheered with the kids.  The chip-timed race course starts at Marquette Elementary School, circles the small town, and ends in pretty Independence Park. Once all the 5K racers finish, there is a short children's race, free for the little ones. Last year, they even got a finisher's ribbon!

After the race, participants gather in the school cafeteria for food, drinks, door prizes, and award age-group awards - 1st, 2nd and 3rd overall, plus 1st & 2nd in each 5-yr age group.  That's a lot of awards for a small race... which means you have a greater chance to winning something, if you're on that cusp like me.

Instead of the average 5k cotten tee, the Tiger Trot boosts a tech-style run shirt as part of your registration. If you are a member of the local running club in Peoria, this is also an Illinois Valley Striders Grand Prix Series Race.

Proceeds from the Tiger Trot 5K benefit the three local schools - Marquette Elementary, Rogers Elementary and Georgetown Middle School. I can't think of a better way to raise much-needed funds for our schools... while encouraging our children to take up a healthy activity like running (versus video game playing).  Personally, I get so tired of the kids coming home with popcorn and junk catalog sales.

What's better than a family race outing on a beautiful spring morning?!  We had such a wonderful time last year. I hope you can join in for the 2014 race on Saturday, April 26.  Register here before April 12 for the early bird pricing ($25). There is also a spaghetti dinner the evening before at packet pickup, that helps the local Cub Scout pack... 5-7pm at the Real Life Church.

Find the Tiger Trot on Facebook here.

• • •  RACE ENTRY GIVEAWAY  • • •

A good friend is the race director for the Tiger Trot 5K and has graciously offered me a race entry to giveaway to one of my readers!  It's so easy to enter...

• Comment* below - With so many 5K races these days, how do you determine which one you run? What is the determining factor?
• Share this post on Facebook and/or Twitter to spread the word about this great race! Include hashtag #TigerTrot

Good Luck! Winner will be announced Monday, April 7, 2014.

THE WINNER IS .... LAUREN SIEMERS!

* To enter by making a comment below, you need an online profile. To do so quickly, select the OpenID option in the "Comment As" dropdown. Enter the web address to your Facebook profile... www.fb.com/yourname

Race Recap: Shamrock Half Marathon

My Shamrock Bling collection!

Finally wrapping up my Virginia Beach race weekend... If you missed part one, click here to read about the race expo and the 8K run last Saturday.

Sunday, March 16...
My morning alarm went off too quickly. I didn't feel well rested, and a quick glance out the window told me the wind had not eased up.  The half marathon started early at 7am (the full marathon was later at 8:30am). I grabbed my ClifBar for breakfast, only to realize it had chocolate in it (I gave that up for Lent!). Ah!  Thankfully, I had a sample-size granola bar from the race expo.

Temps were in the low 40's (which is my favorite race temp), but that wind had a chilling effect on me all weekend. So I grabbed a long sleeve tech shirt that I just bought at the expo. Hubby drove me to the start line - about 15 blocks down. I had originally picked my hotel based on the starting line for the full marathon, which was a different location than the half, also a different time.  We arrived a 1/2 hour early to meet up for the Half Fanatics and Tough Chik pictures. While hanging out in front of the Cavilier, I found a bunch of other online friends too!

Team Tough Chik!

Online friends finally meeting in person!

I was having so much fun chatting with my new friends that I almost forgot the time on the clock. By time I walked to the portapotties, it was less than 5 minutes to the start. When the gun sounded and the first corral set off down the street, I was literally inside the toilet. First time for that.  I found my way to corral 4 in the nick of time.

My goal for the Shamrock Half Marathon was to maintain a 10 min/mile pace for the first 10 miles and then see what I had left. It was essentially a long training run and a little test to see where my endurance was at. My legs weren't exactly rested and didn't feel as fresh as the prior day's 8K, but I felt good.

Hubby found me first near mile 2. Once running, I warmed up quickly and was second-guessing my choice of long-sleeve. The wind just didn't feel so bad once we were running in mass.

Hubby jumped in the car and caught me again at mile 3. He typically catches me a 6-7 times during a half marathon. But being a cheerleader in a car proved to be a difficult task at the Shamrock Half Marathon. The north side of Virginia Beach is a narrow area and most the roads were closed off for the race. There just wasn't a way around unless you were on bike.

I skipped the first water stop because it was a cluster, but then quickly reminded myself, "Don't be stupid. The majority of my hydration yesterday was beer. Take the damn water."  From that point on, I snagged a water cup at every water station and drank on the run.
Mile 1 - 9:54
Mile 2 - 9:54
Mile 3 - 9:49

After mile 3, we veered off on on the heavily wooded area along First Landing State Park. I loved this stretch, probably my favorite of the whole race. Three miles of quiet woods with a wide road to spread the runners out.

Mile 4 - 9:49

Mile 5 - 9:58

Mile 6 - 9:54

bad photo on-the-run, but you get the idea...

I was unglued from my watch most of the race - just trying to maintain a comfortable pace. Every once in a while, I'd look down to check a mile split and always happy with what I saw... nice and even. After mile 6, we entered Fort Story, a joint Army/Navy base. As we broke out of the wooded area and approached the Atlantic Ocean (large sand dunes blocked any views), the wind gusts slapped me in the face.  For the most part, the miles through the base were rather boring, except for when we passed between the old and new Cape Henry Lighthouses.

I was feeling really good and took my first and only energy gel to make sure that feeling would last. As we rounded the coastline and headed south again, I started to itch for the finish.
Mile 7 - 9:53
Mile 8 - 9:57
Mile 9 - 9:53

Coming out of the base, I grabbed a cup from one of several 'beer stops' along the course. Hmmm, it tasted good; a sneak of what was to come at the post-party. I was trying to hold myself on-pace until the mile 10 marker; but once that beer went down, my patience wore thin. I slowly stepped up my pace, plugged in my music for the first time... and the fun began.

As tired runners slowed down, I picked it up and began passing people non-stop. It takes control and patience to hold a slower pace early in the race... but this is the reward. It is so wonderful to feel strong and in-control at the end of 13.1 miles. I found my tempo pace and picked people off one by one. I even dropped the hubby a couple texts to let him know where I was. He had grown weary of the traffic rat-race and just took the car back to the hotel. I got a good laugh when he texted me (at mile 5), "Hurry up! I'm at the finish!"

I felt taxed in the last mile, but was determined to make it my best split of the weekend. The course zigzagged back towards the beach. We rounded the last corner onto the boardwalk and got our first oceanview of the half marathon. The strong wind put a damper on any kind of finishing kick. The flags waved us in for the finish, but that final stretch seemed to stretch on and on.
Mile 10 - 9:31
Mile 11 - 9:18
Mile 12 - 9:31

Mile 13 - 8:58

VIRGINIA - State #20

Official Chip Time 2:07:40

average pace 9:44

overall #3443 of 8936

F35-39  #300 of 921

Female  #1594 of 5510

This is nowhere near a PR for me (1:56), but I was really happy with my run at the Shamrock Half Marathon. I've been slow coming back from plantar fasciitis - building endurance and my speed again. A 9:44 pace for this distance is good for me right now... so I was all smiles with the results. I should mention if you are pushing for a PR, this is a great course. Seriously, the FLATTEST 13.1 I've ever run!

The race was fun... but the post-party was awesome!  We immediately went to the big warm tent on the beach. What a set-up inside! Hot soup, cold beer and a complete concert setup with four great bands throughout the day.

One of the best things I did the day before was buy a cheap sweatshirt. Sweaty and now cold, it felt awesome to put that sweatshirt on. We hung out for an hour before walking back to the hotel to change and try to catch my friend Patty in the midst of her full marathon. After a change of clothes, we returned to the post-party, waited for Patty to finish, and drank Yuengling beer until the band played their last song - 4:00 in the afternoon!! I loved one of the Irish bands so much that we followed them to Murphy's and celebrated our Shamrock runs well into the evening.

I had such a fabulous time at the Shamrock Marathon events. It lived up to its well-deserved reputation and I was extremely pleased that I chose this event to fulfill state #20 Virginia on my journey to Race All 50. Not only was event execution flawless, but the swag involved with these races was stellar!

Thank You Virginia!

Giveaway Contest: Race-cation to ZOOMA Napa Valley

I'm extremely lucky to have so many supportive friends in my life - both in person and virtually from the blog. For five weeks in Jan/Feb, I begged, pestered and pleaded for everyone to vote daily in the ZOOMA Run-to-Napa contest. Because of your faithful voting, I won the grand prize - a race vacation to Napa Valley!!  Truly a dream come true!!  California will now be state #24 on my quest to Race All 50.

Part of my prize was a second trip - the opportunity to reward one of my readers (YOU!) with a ZOOMA race vacation. How would you like to join me in Napa Valley... for a run, wine and weekend of relaxation?

ZOOMA is a women's race series that hosts specialty events like none other. Race weekend is more than just a run. It's a mini-vacation with your BRF's (Best Running Friends) at a destination locale. Two years ago, five of us girls drove four hours north to attend in our first ZOOMA. We had such a great weekend celebrating fitness and friendship. There were mocktail parties, informative presentations, yoga sessions, spa treatments, expo shopping and samples, cool goody bags, chocolate, wine, delicious food, laughs, hugs and smiles... capped off by one heck of a run! Plus, I had the chance to meet Sarah and Dimity from Another Mother Runner!  To bring it all home, ZOOMA's finisher's medals are truly unique with an attached charm that you can later use on a necklace. Trust me, you'll enjoy any ZOOMA event you attend. They currently have six upcoming events...

Austin, TX  April 12

Annapolis, MD  May 31

Napa, CA  June 28

Chicago, IL  August 9

Cape Cod, MA  September 27

Amelia Island, FL  January 17, 2015

There are FIFTEEN (15) entry options for this contest - making the giveaway accessible to anyone - no matter what social media you use (or don't). Be sure to check off everything you've done on the Rafflecopter app below. The winner will be verified and chosen via Rafflecopter.

• Get your first entry into the ZOOMA Run-to-Napa Contest by simply leaving a comment below... What's your favorite way to celebrate a race?!?  
• Facebook - Earn a bonus entry for following RunWithJess, ZOOMA and all the great sponsors who make this giveaway possible: Honest Tea, Oiselle, Marriott Napa Valley, Another Mother Runner and Napa Valley. Share the link to this contest with your friends for a bonus entry.
• Twitter - Earn entries for following RunWithJess and ZOOMA - plus a bonus entry every day for tweeting about this contest (must include the link back to this page).
• Instagram - Rack up more entries by following RunWithJess and ZOOMA - plus a fun creative entry by posting a photo of your "lucky charm". What gives you luck on race day? Is it a special person, the perfect shoes, special socks, a necklace... Whatever it is, post an IG photo using tags @runwjess @zoomarun #Run2Napa #LuckyCharm

GOOD LUCK! 

Contest closes March 18, 2014 at 12:00am.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest closes 12:00am on March 18, 2014.  

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS CONTEST.  

1. Contest is open to residents of the continental U.S. only.  

2.  Prize includes: roundtrip airfare to ZOOMA Napa Valley, 2 night stay at Marriott Napa Valley, and race entry into ZOOMA Napa Valley. Prizes are provided by ZOOMA Women's Race Series and their participating sponsors. 

3. Winner is picked through a random selection through Rafflecopter app. Entries will be verified upon selection.  

4. Winner will be announced on www.RUNwithJESS.com on Tues, March 18. Winner must claim prize within 48 hours of notification or forfeit the prize, in which case an alternate winner will be selected.

Race Recap: Oshkosh Turkey Trot

This past weekend, I traveled back to the homeland (aka Wisconsin) for Thanksgiving. The hubby likes to sit in the woods sleeping deer hunt and I certainly love time with my parents. I had noticed in past years that Festival Foods hosts Turkey Trot races throughout the Fox Cities. Once I knew our travel plans were concrete, I registered months ago for the 5 mile race in Oshkosh.

It really was a no brainer... $18 entry fee for 5 miles. I loved the fact that it was longer than a 5K, but there was also the option of a 2 mile run/walk.  This included not only a chip-timed race bib, but also a long sleeve t-shirt and a pumpkin pie at the finish! Considering race prices these days, I thought this was quite the deal.

I showed up Thanksgiving morning in the worst race shape I've ever run in.  I had been sick with the flu for the previous week, and I was still harboring a severe chest congestion. If I was smart, I would have sat this one out. But this tough chik is stubborn as a bull.

It was a chilly 22 degrees when I arrived in Oshkosh. I met up with a friend who scored a parking spot right next to the starting line. We huddled in the car until they played the National Anthem, jumped out, snapped a photo and were running within minutes. It was all way too smooth and convenient...

PreRace Photo: Me, C, Dani and Janet

Staying true to the race name, I trotted down the road... slow and comfortable. I hadn't run in a week so my legs felt fresh and eager, but I knew my chest couldn't keep up. I focused on my breathing, keeping it easy and controlled. The last thing I wanted to do was keel over in this fun run.

The first two miles were a straight stretch down Algoma Blvd through the UW campus. I've run this stretch several times as it is also the start for the Oshkosh Half Marathon. I can't help but be a little nostalgic through this area... I spent a good part of my early 20's here. It seems like so long ago!

We made the first turn in this triangle-shaped route around mile 2. I noticed a group of costumed minions up ahead and set my sights on passing them... gradually. This keeping it "easy" was difficult. By now, I was warmed up and honestly, I felt the best I have all week. My chest seemed to open up as I ran and that was a welcome relief.

As we entered the neighborhoods, runners were shuffled to a coned lane on the side of the road. Because of the fresh snowfall over night, the side of the road was sloppy and a bit slippery. Runners naturally veered to clear road. But there was a cop nazi with a speaker who patrolled the route, constantly telling people "Runners to the right of the cones!" It made me laugh... because on a holiday morning, there was zero traffic.

Finally... I caught the minions!

The finish was rather anti-climatic. I resisted every urge to sprint the finishing stretch. I crossed the finish with a smile as it felt so good to run again. But almost just as immediate as I stopped running, the coughing began.  Oh my goodness, it was like my chest suddenly seized up. The cold air had gotten in my lungs and wasn't doing any good for my already severe congestion. I quickly grabbed my pumpkin pie and headed to the car. For the 25 minute ride home, I warmed my tush on seat warmers and calmed my chest by breathing thru a dry headband.

Official Chip Time 51:26

10:04 average pace for 5.11 miles

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving holiday!
Did you run a turkey day race?

Race Recap: The EDGE 10K

You all know I'm a Half Junkie. By far, 13.1 is my favorite distance, but I must admit, the 10K is pretty fun and challenging too. The more I run 10K's, the more I like it. It's a short enough distance to dial up the speed, but long enough to be a productive workout for me. On Sunday, I laced up for the inaugural EDGE 10K in my town of Peoria, IL.

The sole reason I signed up for this race was because my good friend Colleen was the race director - her first go at the job and I wanted to support her. Knowing her as I do, I knew the race would be well-organized, great communication and smooth running. She delivered on all fronts. For $35, I received a chip-timed race bib and a royal blue hoodie sweatshirt. (There was also a 5K option.)

Unfortunately, on race morning, I wasn't feeling the best. I had used that 'extra hour' from Daylight Savings in an odd puke session during the wee hours of the morning. I finally got back to sleep, but the damage was done. I felt tired and weak when my alarm sounded. And my tummy was touchy... I managed a 1/2 cereal bar, but it just didn't feel right.

Hubby was working, so I ran my kiddos over to the in-laws to hang for the morning. I arrived downtown Peoria with plenty of time to chat it up with my Sole Sisters before the race... and visit the toilet two more times. Oh, my poor tummy...

Alas, the call to lineup! As always, I am blessed with a body that perks up (or shuts down) at race time. The excitement and adrenaline took over... and I didn't have a problem the rest of the race. It was a perfect morning to run in the chilly 30's with bright sunshine. I started with Heather and Deanna. We're all a similar pace during our group runs, but today Heather went out quick. Our first mile popped off at 8:57. I haven't done that in awhile, but it didn't feel too bad!

Photo from my friend Andrew at Open Skies Photography

The first two miles were fairly flat, and then we entered Springdale Cemetery. Springdale is known for its natural beauty and big trees, but also for its challenging hills. I tried to keep my mind on the pretty scenery. Fall colors were absolutely perfect today and the leaves were gently trickling down around us. I ran without my phone today so I have zero photos to show off of this pretty scene.

We hit the big hill shortly after the mile 2 marker. With a turn, we zig-zagged up and up. It would even out and then climb again. My pace plummeted, but I just kept running - one knee lift at a time. It was here that I hooked up with "blue shirt". (Afterward, I looked up her name in the results - Judy.) I would pass her on the climbs and then she's pass me back on the declines. This seems to be my M.O. lately in races.

As we exited the pretty cemetery in mile 4, the field of runners had spread out quite a bit. (There was over 300 in the event, but only 80 in the 10K distance.)  I was struggling to keep up with "blue shirt", now roughly 25 yards in front of me. Each little incline, I would close the gap just a little bit and then we'd spread out again.

Photo from my friend Andrew at Open Skies Photography

As we hit the straightaway that was the home stretch, I was feeling weak. I haven't run sub-9 pace in a long time. My focus was to just "beat the blue shirt". There were times when I had a second wind, and then other times when I just wanted to ask her what age group she was in... I mean really, was it worth the fight?

I was banking on my finish kick, but then I thought, "Maybe she has one too..." So with a 1/2 mile to go, I pushed my effort and drove the pace home. I passed her before the turn, and there was no catching me. (Garmin says my last 0.2 was a 7:20 pace!)  I weaved thru the bunches of walkers that were now finishing the 5K and gave it a final sprint.

Photo courtesy of RC Race Management

Official Chip Time 55:41

average pace 8:58 min/mile

Overall #36 out of 83

Females # 16 out of 57

F35-39  #2 out of 6

Immediately after the finish, I turned to give "blue shirt" a high five and thank her for providing that push today. Evidently, I had done the same for her. Every once in awhile when I run a race, I find a good partner out of a complete stranger. I like that about runners.

My time was good enough for a 2nd place medal in my age group! Thank you small races for making us mediocre runners a WINNER once in awhile. There was a nice food spread, but I just sipped my coffee to warm up. The awards ceremony was so fun with many of my Sole Sisters earning an award. We were hoot and hollering like crazy. An incredibly FUN morning!

Sole Sisters after the awards ceremony... look at all those medals!

Three Things Thursday: Spectator Edition

ONE
One of the highlights of my week was finding a collection of photos online from Sunday's half marathon. All taken by spectators, donating their time to be out on the course, offering up their photography skills, and then sharing their photos for free. This is a gift I treasure.  If you're a regular racer at big events, you know that race photography is expensive. However, the perfect photos can keep those wonderful memories alive. And whenever you hit that slump, all you have to do is flip album pages to rediscover your #runjoy.

My favorite is this one at Sunday's finish line... I had no idea who the lady was, but was so happy to discover this picture on Facebook. It may be my profile picture forever...

TWO
I am not racing this weekend. Whew, it's been awhile since I've said that. Oddly enough, it took a lot of determination to keep it that way. There's a pretty cool event in our town this weekend... the Screaming Pumpkin Marathon & Relay. I was invited to be on three different teams in the past two weeks... and I was oh. so. tempted.

Unlike other races, anyone can win this race; running fast means nothing! It's a prediction race... participants begin running any time after 6pm and ideally finish right on the stroke of midnight. No watches or clocks are allowed. Costumes galore... and a ton of HILLS through a heavily wooded cemetery. All finishers who make it back before midnight receive a wand and a tiara; finish after midnight and you get a pumpkin.

I plan to pack a few beers, head out into the darkness Friday night and give my friends support with some big cheers! Light-up costume necessary. One of these years, I'll actually run it...

THREE
The topic of cowbells were brought up in one of my running group forums. Evidently, there are runners who despise cowbells at races. One man brought it up because there were some people (my kids) at this past Sunday's half ringing them. His exact words... "Nothing more than a cacophony of irritating noise!"  (Now those could be words to describe my kids at times, but I'm pretty sure he was talking about the actual cowbell.)  I couldn't help but think those are strong words against someone who came out to cheer for you. Geesh, how people love to critic...

I am one talented spectator.
I can ring 3 cowbells at once... in each hand.

If we're going to analyze spectators' cheers, I understand that the "best cheers" are when people use the perfect words at just the right time to make you feel re-energized. That is perfect world. But have you ever been a spectator? Man, it's a lot of work to vocally cheer non-stop for 2+ hours, especially when most runners just ignore you. I know because I've done it.  Honestly, it can be more exhausting that actually running the miles myself. So sometimes you use a bell, clapper and yes, a cowbell, to fill the gap of quiet until you can produce more saliva to form words.

I absolutely love spectators and any noise/energy that they can bring to the race course. There's pretty much nothing that irritates me... well, except when they crowd/block the course. But my motto is BRING THE THUNDER! In fact, I've been known to yell out "Make Some Noise" or "More Cowbell!" when running past silent crowds. I truly appreciate their presence and enjoy the energetic distraction.

Obviously, I am in the dark on this subject, because I had no idea runners felt any different.
What do you think - YEA or NAY to the cowbell at races?

P.S. - If NAY is your vote, you're gonna want to avoid the Mo' Cowbell Marathon (self explanatory, I believe...) and other races like Hartford (where they actually deliver cowbells to the residents on the course in hopes that they'll come outside and cheer).

Race Recap: Susan G Komen Promise Run 13.1

This Sunday, I ran the Susan G. Komen Promise Run (half marathon) in Peoria, IL. Before I even get into the race details... let me cover the most important part of this run. It was a charity event, first and foremost...
A run against breast cancer.
A run to honor survivors.
A run to support the current fighters.
And a run to honor the memory of those passed.

In the months leading up to race day, I did my share of fundraising to support this inaugural race. Through personal donations and a variety of events, including the Virtual 50K Ride and Spin for the Cure, I raised $1,173.09. Thank you to everyone who made that possible. I mainly use this blog to connect and help motivate others with my running ramblings. However, my heart is always proud when I can also use it to do some good for a charity. So a big thank you.

Pink ribbon cookies
from my Grandma's recipe

On Friday, I put in a good hour at the local Komen office, stuffing race goodie bags. I also decided to make some cookies to hand out after the race. These cookies had special meaning - as they were cut from my Grandma Lillian's recipe. I named my first daughter after G'ma Lillian and she was my source of inspiration for this run, as she died when I was 3 yrs old from breast cancer.

On Saturday, I worked the Sole Sisters table (aka the Bling Booth) at packet pickup. The race bibs were a beautiful pink, so we offered rhinestones and all kinds of glittery stuff to decorate them even more. The ladies loved it and it was a busy busy table at times. I also made some "I Run For..." bibs that runners could pin to their back to honor someone during their run.

Adding BLING to their race bibs!

I started off race morning around 6am, dropping off a plethera of signs at Bradley Park, where fellow Sole Sisters would be hosting a Cheer Station.  From there, I made my way downtown for the early 7am start (just how I like it).  I met up with the running Sole Sisters outside near the start (although most people were huddled inside the warmth of the Civic Center). I'm a Wisconsin gal and built for this weather. I absolutely love the upper 30's-low 40's, which is exactly where it stayed the whole race.

And we're off!! Starting in downtown Peoria, we ran over the bridge into East Peoria for the first of three out and back's.

The highlight of the East Peoria stretch was definitely crossing the Bob Michel Bridge. It's always a pretty spot to run in this town, but today had a pretty sunrise. Unfortunately, the volunteers didn't show for the water stop along this first stretch, so the table sat unmanned in the middle of the street. Self serve I guess, but I think it pretty much went unused this early in the miles.

Carried my camera in the first part just to stop and get this shot on top of the bridge;
then I tossed the camera to the hubs and ran hands-free for a nice change.

I knew this course had some major hills in the first half, so I kept my pace comfortable. My mantra for the first half was STRONG BUT CONSERVATIVE. The first 2.5 miles included a climb up and down the bridge (twice)... and then we made our way through downtown Peoria.

downtown Peoria

It took another two miles to get to the top of Main Street hill. On each of the major hills (Main St being one of them), I set my sites on a point halfway up the hill, ran to it, took a walk break, and then continued my run to finish the hill. That was the plan and I pretty much stuck to it this whole race.

Mile 1 - 9:02

Mile 2 - 9:09

Mile 3 - 9:39

Mile 4 - 10:12

We then cruised a flat mile through Bradley University. By now, I noticed more cops than I've ever seen on a race course before. Several cops even had police dogs with them. For the number of runners in this race, the big police presence actually seemed a bit odd... but I guess we were safe.

By mile 5, the leader was already pushing up the big Farmington Road hill as I coasted down. Yup, he was nearly 3 miles ahead of me already! He finished in an unbelievable 1:11 for the half.

When we hit Lower Bradley Park, there were my girlfriends... the Sole Sisters who were not running. Oh my goodness, they were cheering so loud for all the runners that I heard them at the top of Farmington Rd hill! What a fun spot to run through, by far the most ENERGY on the course!

photos from my friend Colleen

Yup, I was indeed having fun on this run!

Next up was the big Park Road hill. This baby is just plain evil. I stuck to my 'hill plan' and got up it... whew! At the top, I nearly collided with another runner coming at me. For some reason, runners had to "swap sides" of the road for the relay exchange up ahead at Shea Stadium. Very odd and dangerous - especially if the race had been bigger. This needs correcting before next year.

I like running through the relay exchange zones. There are lots of spectators and runners waiting for their run partner. Plus there's a sense of pride when you bust through the exchange... "Not me, I'm running the whole damn thing!"

I knew this area well as I run often through the adjacent Parkside Cemetery. I was kinda bummed that the course didn't veer past Susan G. Komen's burial site. It would have been a nice touch to offer flowers or something to drop near the memorial.

By mile 7, I was all smiles, now cruising down the Park Road hill. Sole Sisters at the bottom and then one more big hill to climb. I got this!

Mile 5 - 9:20

Mile 6 - 9:43

Mile 7 - 9:25

Mile 8 - 10:04

By mile 9, I was back on Main Street when my friend Cassie veered off the sidewalk and appeared by my side. She was just 'out for a run' and chatted with me a bit. It was a great surprise and perfect timing during a quiet stretch of road. All I had on my mind was the big downhill coming up...

The downhill on Main Street wasn't nearly as much fun as I had hoped. By now, my quads were getting tired of all this elevation change. A steep downhill didn't help. But I knew the worst was behind me and that made me happy to continue.

At mile 9.5, we turned left to begin our final out/back towards Springdale Cemetery. I've run this route too many times to count, as it's the popular course of the Steamboat Classic. I saw my hubby and kids as we left downtown, and it gave me steam to push the last four miles.

The final out/back of the course was flat, but yet it seems deceivingly long. Miles 9-12 are always the toughest miles for me in a half. With the hills in my rearview mirror, I decided to drive forward. My goal was to make the last four miles faster than the first four. I plugged my earbud in and searched my ipod shuffle for some hard tempo songs.
Mile 9 - 9:36
Mile 10 - 9:19
Mile 11 - 9:28

I hit the turnaround and was hating the little incline up and around the Sonnemaker statue... but elated to be headed in the right direction of the finish line. As I passed friends on the out/back, I resorted to hand gestures for communication. I needed every last breathe to hold my pace in the low-9's. One by one, I picked off runners in front of me. (The end is always so more fun when you run the first half conservatively.)

With less than a mile to go, I found a worthy adversary... All I remember is a pretty ponytail and a white shirt. I struggled to pass her. I could hear her footsteps right on my tail. My only goal was to stay one step infront. I can't even describe how hard that was at this point of exhaustion. As we made the turn onto the final stretch, my legs just quit and she zoomed by. Ugh, I was so disappointed with myself. I tried to grab ahold and trail behind with her, but she was now out of reach.
Mile 12 - 9:20
Mile 13 - 9:28

I had no time goal on this race - but I'm always striving for a good run. As many races as I've run, I'm still playing around with strategy - how to pace myself through the miles. I like to finish strong with just enough gas in the tank. Today, I was pretty close to that. I didn't look at my watch all morning. So as I approached the finish line, I was literally shocked to see 2:04... With those big hills, how on earth did that happen?

One of the benefits of a small race... my hubby positioned himself right inside the finish line. 
I ran right into BIG HUGS from my LITTLE GIRLS. An Absolutely Perfect Finish!!

Official Time 2:04:38

average pace 9:31 min/mile

I am proud of this run. Not only did I help the fight against breast cancer, but I also proved a lot to myself. With the climbs involved, I wasn't expecting much of a performance... but a 2:04 is pretty GOOD for me right now. It's what I ran a month ago on the flat Fox Cities course. It gives me cause to evaluate my goal for the Marshall University Half in three weeks. I'm going to give myself a couple weeks of "real training" to try and pull off a sub-2 to end the year. There... I said it. Now I gotta do it.

FINAL NOTES ON THE RACE...

• This was the inaugural year for the Komen Promise Run & Relay in Peoria, and I have no doubt it will get bigger and better every year. I've worked with the folks at the Komen office and they are good people, dedicated to making this a long-standing event for Peoria.
• I liked the course... more than I thought I would. Initially I was disappointed when they released the course (3 out and backs?), but it turned out to be a lot of FUN. I saw so many friends throughout the run. I loved all the cheering and jabbing back and forth as we passed each other. It made this the quickest (mentally) half marathon I've ever run. And when you're running, sometimes it's all about the mental games in your head.
  
• I personally loved the New Balance sleeveless tops. I wish more races did tank tops since that's all I wear. Plus I love the fit of New Balance. Although, I did hear a lot of suggestions that long sleeve seemed more appropriate for the time of year... and they ran out of sizes.
• There were no finisher's medals. There's been a finisher's medal (of some sort) at every half marathon I've run (22 before today). So it was odd to finish and not be handed anything but a bottle of water.  To put it mildly, there were some upset runners. For the price tag of this race, I think finisher's medals are a must-add in 2014 if they want the participation.
• There was an adequate breakfast spread in the Civic Center afterward... muffins, doughnuts, bagels, fruit, juice and coffee. The exhibit hall was decorated nice with pink lights and pink flags. A complimentary photo booth was a fun touch on the post-race celebration.
• Unfortunately, the awards ceremony didn't go quite as planned. First, it took forever for the awards to start (especially when you're sweaty and cold). Then once they started handing out medals, the results were wrong and winners mixed up. Technology... it happens but still frustrating. Official results and correct age group winners can be found here.

I have high hopes for this race in the future and hope my schedule allows a 2014 repeat. It's an important cause and we can't quit the fight.