Race Recap: Race for the Cure 5K

This past weekend, I spent a lot of time offline - enjoying the summer weather with my family. My hubby and kids spoiled me for Mother's Day, and I couldn't help but relish every moment.
"My cup runneth over" Psalm 23:5

I ran this race as a member of the
 Peoria Air National Guard team.

Saturday was particularly perfect. I started off the day at one of my favorite races ever, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K.  This event has special meaning since it was my very first race (2001).  It's also our community's biggest fundraiser for breast cancer, the disease that took my grandmother when I was just a toddler.  Always the Saturday on Mother's Day weekend, it's heart-warming to see the crowds that gather for this occasion - grandmothers, mothers, daughters, sisters, and each year more men participate too.  By far, the largest hoopla you'll ever see surrounding a 5k run/walk.

I arrived about 45 minutes before the start, for the mere purpose that I wanted a good getaway parking spot.  The race started a 8:00am and I had to teach Spinning at 9:00am. Talk about an incentive to run fast!  My plan was to finish the 5K in under 30 minutes, run through the finish line straight to my car, and then jet off to the gym.

I purposely didn't plan to "meet up" with anyone pre-race. It was a nice change of pace to just show up and run. I relaxed on a curb pre-race, soaking in the beautiful morning sun while listening to the pre-race ceremonies from the stage. I love watching the huge group of survivors and big crane up in the sky that takes their group photo each year.

The Survivors.  Photo from the Susan G. Komen FB page

After a quick jog around the parking lot to warmup, I bumped into some friends near the starting line and waiting there for the official start. I haven't run the Race for the Cure in a couple years, so I was surprised to see all the men lining up in front. The race has evolved through the years. The first year I ran, there were no male runners - only a "mile of men". Then it had a waved start - women first and then the men 10 minutes later. We ran the same course, but it guaranteed a woman winner. I always used it as an incentive... my goal being to reach the 2 mile marker before the lead male came zooming past me. Now it's all merged together as one - probably for the best - but personally, I liked the wave start best.

I haven't run a 5K in a long time, and certainly had not trained for the speed that these shorter races require. My only goal was to finish in time to make my 9am Spinning class!  It was a silent flag start, and just like that, we were off. I knew the course well, but hadn't given it much thought when I registered. I completely forgot how hill-challenging the course is.  In the first mile, we did a gradual climb up University Avenue. There's a clock at the top of the hill to mark the end of the first mile, and I sadly noted that I was a full minute off the last time I ran this one. Sigh...

The latter miles circle through pretty neighborhoods, adding in several more hills. I always like to see residents sitting out in their yards, cheering runners on. What I wouldn't give to live on a race course!

My friend Cassie was out cheering along the course and caught me as I ran by...

I hauled it in for the final mile and finished with an official chip time of 28:44.7. 
That averages out to a 9:15 pace. For now, I'm okay with that!

I hurried off to the gym and continued the Pink Celebration with my For The Cure ride in Spinning class. It's an inspiring but tough ride. I left the gym with a big smile on my face, happy to have squeezed in both a race and a Spin class - all before 10am.  

My hubby and kids had been busy too. They spent the morning cleaning the house from top to bottom and doing laundry. I walked in the door and my kiddos yelled out, "Happy Mother's Day!"  We spent the rest of the day shopping for and planting flowers. It was truly the best day ever.

Race Recap: Lincoln National Guard Half Marathon

State #21 is done!

On Sunday, I made Nebraska state #21 on my quest to Race All 50 during the Lincoln National Guard Half Marathon. This is an event that sells out fast (less than a day!), so you gotta decide quickly if you're in.  Registration opened at midnight on New Year's Eve. So while everyone else was raising a toast and playing kissy face, I was at my computer trying to get into Lincoln. With such demand over a race, I assumed it was 'thee one' to run in Nebraska.

On Friday afternoon, my friend Anna and I began the 7 hour drive across Illinois and Iowa to reach the eastern edge of Nebraska.  Ugh - Iowa is one long and boring state to drive. It was nice to have someone to travel with - especially someone whose BFF lived in the race city. Thanks for hosting us Bry!

We had a nice leisurely Saturday morning (coffee and a magazine on a warm sunny deck) and finally got motivated to hit the race expo around lunch.  It was a busy moderate-sized expo. Easy in; easy out for the most part. I tried not to shop much, but I did snag an autographed book from Dane Rauschenberg after chatting with him.

Most important part of the race expo is THE BIB of course!

Saturday evening, Bry brought us to the Project Purple pre-race dinner. I felt a little out of place and awkward at first - since I wasn't "on" the team, but everyone made us feel welcome. (And I sure was thankful I had preciously donated.)  I met some truly amazing people that night. Their stories touched me more than they'll ever know. I left the party wishing I had joined the Lincoln Project Purple team - running to beat pancreatic cancer.

Race morning came and **TMI Alert** I was constipated. Some people have problems with going too much and have to take immodium. I have just the opposite problem, but thankfully just when I travel. So my body was not feeling light and quick like I want it to on race morning. All I could think about was... well, you know. The first place I headed when we arrived to the starting line was the the bathrooms. Unlike most races, there were no outdoor porta-potties. The only restrooms were inside the Coliseum, which was packed. As we entered, someone told us, "Go downstairs to the locker rooms." It was better down there, but still a jumbled mess. Men had no line while the womens wound down the hallway. And oh dear, hold your nose once you got inside the locker room, where everyone was pooping... Not a pleasant start to race morning. All that and I still couldn't go.

We all wore purple to support Bry's run for Project Purple.

Anna and I waiting for the start

The race began with a staggered start to accommodate the 13,000 runners. It was the kind of start where everyone picked their finish time and basically hopped in wherever they wanted.  I was waiting on the sidelines for the 2:05 pacer, but after nearly 27 minutes of watching people start before me (whom I knew I would pass later), I finally jumped in.

The race started smoothly and we had the full road to run. I tried to find a comfortable pace and just settle in. Once the first couple splits ticked off, I'd have a better idea how this race was going to unfold. I had originally selected this race for a sub-2 run. Training had not gone as planned (at all). I knew a sub-2 was not going to happen today, but I wondered how close I could get. After all, someone had told me this was a flat fast course. (P.S. It's not.)  At mile 1, we passed the Nebraska State Capitol building. Other than that, the sights along the early part of the course were basic city streets.
Mile 1 - 9:27
Mile 2 - 9:27

Inside the third mile, we hit a long gradual climb, which my Garmin stats say was the largest elevation gain on the 13.1 course. We entered some nice neighborhoods and the spectators through this area were in plenty and very supportive. The course continued to roll...
Mile 3 - 9:41
Mile 4 - 9:29
Mile 5 - 9:35

The course suddenly crunched and became congested. I could feel the slow down all around me.  I found myself wondering what was going on... Is there something up ahead? or are they just getting tired as we near the halfway point? I pushed onward trying to hold my pace and weaved around people.  And then we hit the trail... a paved bike trail that is not big enough for a race of this size.  The next several miles were finally flat, but oh so frustrating... weaving around walkers and the side-by-side friends that create a wall. One of my biggest pet peeves is people who block the course for others.
Mile 6 - 9:20
Mile 7 - 9:13
Mile 8 - 9:35

Finally, we turned off the trail. I'm pretty sure a "Thank God" slipped out of my mouth as we spread back out on the street. And then I looked up to see another climb in front of me. Aw shoot! The sun was out in full force all morning and the temps were on the rise. Combined with the unexpected hills and congestion and I was turning into one crabby runner.  I realized that I hadn't taken an energy gel yet, so halfway up the mile 9 hill, I walked to eat my Caramel GU, that squirted out all over my hand. Seriously, can I catch a break? I wanted to quit.  But as I crested the hill, I came upon the highlight of the race - ORANGES!!  Everyone knows how much I love oranges when I run!  I dodged across the road and grabbed me a big ole fist full. I tried to pace myself as I popped piece after glorious piece into my mouth.
Mile 9 - 10:04
Mile 10 - 9:34

I don't recall much of the last part of the race... except desperately looking for the finishline. At one point, I thought I might have passed the half/full split. The final miles were quite boring as we made our way back towards Memorial Stadium. I wish I had my normal finishing kick, but it was missing today. We had to make a little climb to get up to the stadium entrance and I'm pretty sure I cursed out loud.  As we entered the football field, the grass felt squishy under my feet (unlike the other fields I've run across at Illinois and Marshall).  Instead of a sprint, I slowed and concentrated on my stepping... Oh please don't let me trip and fall. My feet were like dragging bricks across the finish.
Mile 11 - 9:59
Mile 12 - 9:56
Mile 13 - 9:41

The finish pictures show National Guardsman along the finish.
Funny, I never noticed while I was running.
Wish I hadn't been so worn down at that point.

I crossed the finish and collected my medal. It was pretty crowded in the finish chute and we were being pushed off the field quickly. Despite volunteers constantly telling me to "keep moving", I paused to take a photo on the field and collect a space blanket.

Half #26 

State #21 - Nebraska

Official Chip Time 2:06:27

average pace 9:39 

overall  #3299 out of 7175

females  #1582 out of 4347

F35-39  #300 out of 817

So Lincoln wasn't my best feeling race, but it was my best time so far in 2014.  I can't lie; I was disappointed in my run. It just proves that you can't fake it without putting in the training, which I clearly did not.

It was crammed quarters trying to find my way out of the stadium, but I finally found Bry and Anna (who crushed her PR by over 4 minutes!) for a post-race celebration.

Thanks Bry for your hospitality, and Anna for the great road trip!

Rumor has it this was the best Lincoln medal in years. Score!

The official race shirt. I kinda liked it, but not everyone did...

Building My Race Outfit **GIVEAWAY**

On Friday, I'm leaving on a seven hour road trip with my run buddy Anna. The destination is Lincoln, Nebraska, where we will be running the Lincoln National Guard Half Marathon. It also represents state #21 in my quest to Race All 50. As race week ticks away, I have gradually began my packing... aka throwing stuff on a pile on my bedroom floor. When traveling to run, the 'race outfit' is most important.

At this point, I know I'm wearing PURPLE. Odds are likely you already know it's my favorite color. (I fondly call it PR Purple!)  This weekend, the color purple has more meaning. My friend Bry is running the Lincoln Half as a member of Project Purple - a charity team running to beat pancreatic cancer. If you feel inclined to help out her fundraising, click here.  This Sunday, I will lace up my purple Asics and run to support her.

In preparation for Sunday's half marathon, I pulled out my purple ProCompression socks. I'm still weather-stalking, so undecided yet on the low trainers or the knee-high marathon socks. Lucky me, I have them both!

ProCompression socks - in PURPLE!

ProCompression socks are both functional - and fashionable!  I have nearly every color!

I wear ProCompression socks for nearly every important run. Whether I'm running long or racing hard, my feet and calves love the added squeeze that compression socks provide. I've been a long-standing fan of this particular brand because of their fit and weight. I have short legs and other brands tend to bunch up behind my knee, which causes extra sweat and chaffing. The ProCompression marathon socks in XS size have proven to be the perfect fit for my size 9 feet and short thick calves. Plus, I like how lightweight these socks feel on my legs.  I'm also a big fan that they are made in the USA. That always makes me happy to support a brand.

Sock of the Month
Low and behold, the purple marathon sock is part of April's Sock of the Month. Each month, ProCompression features a different sock design. Some styles are limited and only available that month (like the Shamrock socks). In April, ProCompression offered their purple and powder blue socks on sale - with a portion of the SOM sales benefitting charities Team In Training (purple) and Train 4 Autism (powder blue).  You can sign up on the ProCompression website to receive monthly e-mails on their SOM special.

As a ProCompression Ambassador, I'm pleased to offer you an every day discount...

Use code BLG14 for 40% Off 

Marathon Socks and Arm Sleeves

at www.ProCompression.com

**GIVEAWAY**

Now let's have some giveaway fun! Here's your chance to WIN a pair of ProCompression Marathon Socks or Arm Sleeves (your choice!). Enter before 6:00am on May 4 via the Rafflecopter app below.

In addition to the ProCompression socks/sleeves, I'm adding a second (just for fun) prize - one of my RunHappy bracelets - to the person who comes closest to guessing my finish time in the Lincoln Half Marathon this Sunday.  To give you some guidance in your guessing...
• My slowest half-marathon time was 2:33:46 four years ago.
• My fastest PR time was 1:56:44 two years ago.
• My most recent times are 2:07:40 and 2:09:46 in the past two months

GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congratulations to Kathryn, who came the closest 

in guessing my race time (2:06:27). She was just one second off!

#JellyBean Race Wrap-Up

Last week was the fourth annual running of the Jelly Bean Virtual Race. Like every other year, there was amazing participation from all over the country world!  As always, my virtual races are free to participate in... with the opportunity to win cool prizes. My hope is that my virtual races are a push out the door and extra incentive for your friends and family to gather together, combining fitness and fun.

This year, there was an optional finisher's medal, which proceeds benefitted the St Jude Children's Hospital. Because of you, St Jude received a whopping $500 donation - just from this virtual race. Thank you! If you missed out on the medals, it's not too late to make a donation (here).

On Opening Day of the Jelly Bean Race (April 13), I ran the 5K with this fine looking group above. Sporting my bunny ears, I ran the first mile with my two girls, who are racking up the miles for the Peoria Kids Marathon. Then I headed back out for the remaining mileage. The best part... my last mile split was an 8:49! That's what happens when you get dumped on...

You see, Mother Nature tricked us again. With storms forecasted for the afternoon, we moved our run up a couple hours earlier to avoid the rain. Well, halfway through our run, the clouds opened up on us. We all got very wet. Of course, it was dry the rest of the afternoon. Sigh. I've had really bad weather luck with my fun runs lately.

Now for the important news... the PRIZE WINNERS from the virtual race!  

I have your mailing address and will get the goodies in the mail to you next week.

Beth Peralta (IL) - Advocare pack

Heidi Sebastian (IN) - water bottle with phone compartment

Genevieve Roestel (CA) - Subway gift card

Diane Rock (IL) - Swiftwick socks

Terri Brown (TX) - tube of Nuun hydration tablets

Laura Pyne (PA) - Headsweats beanie

Lisa Elder (IN) - You Just Got Chicked headband

Sarah Blissett (IL) - GU Energy variety pack

Stacey Kirk (NC) - 2pk of LockLaces

There were so so many great photos submitted from your virtual races. They made me SMILE all week long. My favorite was from Kimberly Merrifield. They dressed up as a bunch of jelly beans and ran their 10K this way! I just love the enthusiasm and silliness of it. Congrats Kimberly, you've won a Run & Eat Cupcakes shirt from me. Please e-mail me with your shirt size and mailing address.

THANK YOU and CONGRATS 

to everyone who ran and/or walked 

in the 4th annual Jelly Bean virtual race!  

That's a wrap... Come on back next year!

Race Recap: Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon

This Saturday, I ran a half marathon as a training run.  I did the Lincoln Presidential Half two years ago to get their famous giant penny medal (here), so I really had no intention of repeating it. I'm trying to focus my race dollars on the expensive mission of #RaceAll50.  But then, they announced a 50th anniversary edition bling... a $5 bill as the finisher's medal! As soon as I saw it, I registered within hours. (The $45 entry fee is right where I think a half should be, even as little as two months out.)

The $5 bling featuring Abe Lincoln of course!
The navy blue shirt was kinda goofy with the big Lincoln head, but I actually adore it.
It's a women's Gilden performance shirt that fits me perfect and is super comfortable.

My friend Cassie and I got up early to make the 1:20 drive into Springfield. Arriving just a 1/2 hour before the start, we nabbed a great parking spot one block from the start/finish. Another reason I love these smaller marathons - no fuss, easy in, easy out.  There simply wasn't enough time pre-race. I knew so many people running this race (which made it fun), but I still didn't get a chance to talk with everyone. Sorry if I missed you! Lots of pre-race photos and meet 'n greets with readers (thanks for snagging me when you saw me!).

My Peoria running group (left), Marcia from Marcia's Healthy Slice (top right) and Carmen from She Runs Everywhere (bottom right). Carmen went on to run a killer race - new PR and grabbed 3rd place in her division with a 1:37!

The race started in front of the Old State Capitol, a one-block change from previous years.  I was pretty relaxed at the start and chatty with my pals. I wanted a good run, but had no illusions of anything spectacular. I've had achey muscles this past week and was actually slightly worried how painful 13.1 might be. I smoked this course with a sub-2 a couple years ago. I felt a bit sad to know I am no where near that speed or shape right now. Sigh.

Since this race is all about President Abraham Lincoln, the course winds through the Illinois Capitol to give you a full running tour of all the Lincoln sights.  In the first couple miles, we ran through the section of historic building, including Lincoln's home. Then we veered back downtown and past the current State Capitol building...

By time the first few miles are under my belt, I usually have a good feeling for how the race is going to go.  Today, I was not feeling it. My legs didn't feel any better once I started running, and our pace felt  taxing to me. I was super glad to be running with my pals Cassie and Heather. I kinda tucked behind them and let them pull me along.
Mile 1 - 9:43
Mile 2 - 9:38
Mile 3 - 9:31

We ran through some pretty neighborhoods with houses I can only dream of living in. The temperatures were in the mid-30's. Perfect for (me) running, but understandably chilly for cheerleaders. I remembered there being a lot more spectators last time (on a warmer day).  We ran a scenic stretch through Washington Park and the rolling hills began. The first part of this course is fairly flat, but the second half is definitely a challenge.
Mile 4 - 9:46
Mile 5 - 9:47
Mile 6 - 9:36

Washington Park

As we exited the park, there was a steep hill to climb. I tried to glide up it smooth and quick. I pulled away from my friends at this point. I knew there were challenging hills ahead and wanted to find my zone. Consistent mile splits are kinda my thing...
Mile 7 - 9:54
Mile 8 - 9:50
Mile 9 - 9:53

Shortly after the mile 9 marker, we entered into Oak Ridge Cemetery.  There's a nice downhill to pass by Lincoln's Tomb... but it's easy to miss that landmark when there's a huge UPhill looming to get back out of the cemetery. This is the hill that kind of killed me. It felt like knives stabbing into my glute muscles. Although I powered up it, not giving in to my desire to walk, I knew I was fading... fast.

coming into Lincoln Park

Anna giving the photographer some love
while I turned to head up the final hill.
Ha! Love this!

We made a few turns and quickly found ourselves in Lincoln Park.  There's a nice big downhill, but this time I knew what was coming around the corner... another uphill. I was not amused. I slowed to a walk halfway up... which conveniently is right when my friend Anna caught me. We chatted our way through the rest of the park, which was a nice distraction from the pain in my ass. Literally.

I completely forgot about the final hill that we climb to get out of Lincoln Park. But there it was, waiting to torture me. Anna sailed up it and I was struggling on my own again.
Mile 10 - 10:01
Mile 11 - 10:07
Mile 12 - 10:30

I was about to reach into my shirt and pull out an earbud for music when Cassie caught up to me. We chatted a bit, but she had gas left and moved ahead as well. I tried to hang with her in the last mile, but just couldn't find the motivation. Ugh, I can't remember a race where I felt so worn-down in the last mile.
Mile 13 - 9:46

The finish line was different this year too. There were suddenly a lot of people but I had a hard time seeing ahead where the finish was. I must have looked confused because some guy yelled out, "Turn left at the light and you'll finish." Whew, thanks. Done.

Official Chip Time 2:09:46

average pace 9:54

Overall #905 out of 2???

Female #378 out of 1134

Div F35-39 #68 out of 209

I didn't have the best-feeling run, but it sure was a fun event. The course is very pretty, albeit not-easy. The entry fee is perfect and it's a close getaway from home.  I would highly suggest this event - especially if you don't already have their famous giant penny medal. (There were complaints of people wanting the penny versus the $5 bill this year. I thought it was cool that the race actually offered the penny option at the finish line.)  All around GREAT RACE!

Of course, we took a boatload of fun photos after the race...

Wearing a Badgers outfit (in honor of Saturday's Final Four game) was a blast. I got so many cheers along the course from Big Ten fans. At the post-party, I bumped into a fun Kentucky fan. We were both wearing the sparkle skirts too! 

How about just one more hill Mr. Lincoln?

First Quarter Review

In January, I created a year-long training plan here to make all my races work together... and ultimately land me a substantial marathon PR in the fall.  The plan was broken into phases to keep my focus in line (and keep myself from doing anything stupid). And just like that, the first quarter of 2014 is gone. It's time to check in...

RUN MILES 
January 94
February 105
March 113    
Q1 Total 312
For the most part, I was successful at slowly building my mileage and keeping plantar fasciitis (PF) at bay. It pops up from time to time again. As long as I roll and stretch the foot after every run, it's good.  As I started 2014, fresh off pneumonia, three miles was a tough workout. I felt like I was starting this running thing all over again, from scratch. There were days I cried over my evaporated endurance. But slowly, I trudged through one of the toughest winters (since I started running). I refused to let the constant snow and bitter cold temperatures stop me. The 'quick 3' began to feel short and easy once again. I'm happy to say now (three months later) that I feel like I'm back to where I was last fall.

RACES
January 11 - Chicago Polar Dash (14 miles)
March 15 - Shamrock 8K
March 16 - Shamrock Half Marathon
(click on the race names for full recaps)

I was a wee-bit worried about finishing the Chicago race, based off my simple lack of training. Could I even run 14 miles? I took it slow and consistent, but ran the total 14 miles in wet cold conditions. In March, I was thrilled to be back on my #RaceAll50 journey... checking off state #20 in Virginia. Both the 8K and 13.1 were a test of control and pacing for me, and I was happy with the results. Keeping my pace under 10min/miles for both races, with a nice kick to finish each.

CHALLENGES

For eight weeks, I hosted the #WinterMiles Challenge. Over 1400 people started the New Year with this challenge! The concept was basic - an accountability to encourage participants to run their miles each week - without giving in to winter excuses. There were prize giveaways each week, as well as a mid-challenge virtual race. I received so much positive feedback on the challenge, that we'll definitely repeat next winter.

The ZOOMA contest engulfed me at the end of January and all of February. Everyday, I begged my friends, family and readers to vote for me. It consumed so much of my thoughts - trying to come up with new ideas each day and obsessed with following the votes.  It was a close race, but in the end, I won the trip to run ZOOMA Napa Valley (June 28)... and then got the joy of giving away a second trip! I will never be able to thank you enough for this! California will now be state #24 on my #RaceAll50 quest.

CROSS TRAINING
Spinning - 43 classes
That's an average of 3.6 classes per week, most of which I was the instructor. No matter how you look at it, getting paid to workout is a bonus! My classes have been full as of lately which gives me a energy boost. By far, Spinning is my favorite cross-train and the numbers prove it.

Swimming - 5 workouts
Total fail here. I started the year with a pledge to get back into the pool. It does wonders to widdle my middle and lose weight - without the extra pounding on my runner legs. All five swims I've done have gone well, and yet like strength work, my heart is just not in it. If I have any hope of not drowning doing well in my July Olympic Triathlon, I best get myself focused and in the pool. This is a must-change for the second quarter.

Strength - 9 sessions
All but one of these classes, I was the instructor. (Every Mon night, I teach a 1/2 hour Strength class at the gym - 10 minutes each of arms, legs, core.) Simply put, I need to do more strength work on my own. I have a huge assortment of weights at home and should utilize it more. Working 10-15 minute sessions into my day would payoff big for my running. I somehow just gotta will myself to do it, even when I don't want to.

HONORS
In the past few months, I was named an Ambassador for both ProCompression and Gone For A Run. These are two companies whom I highly regard their products (as in I buy them and use them). I'm excited to share more opportunities with these brands (giveaways! discounts!) for you.

Use code BLG14 for 40% off Marathon Socks & Arm Sleeves at ProCompression!

WEIGHT
I'm disappointed that I haven't lost a single pound in the first quarter. After a roller coaster of up/down 5 pounds, I stand exactly where I was on New Years. In order to hit my marathon run goals this year, I have GOT to get a good 20 lbs off.  I'm not overly obsessed with the scale, but a lower number certainly makes running easier, faster and less pounding on my joints.  What's my problem? I like the sweets, carbs and beer. To win, I've gotta get it under control.

Here's to new quarter... April thru June!  

More miles, more swim, more strength, better food.

Check out my upcoming race schedule here.

How was the start of YOUR year?

What are your goals for the 2nd quarter?

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

I'm a Runner... What's your problem?

Running makes me happy. When crap (for lack of a better word) is piled up in my head, running breaks it up and sets my priorities straight. Stress and worry disappear as the sweat beads across my forehead and drips off my elbows.

Running makes me appreciative. I thank God every single time I run for the ability to breathe hard and put one foot in front of the other. There will come a day that I won't be able to do this... I'm thankful today is not that day.

Running helps me to dream. It teaches me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. My parents taught me that I could be President someday, but MARATHONER (times five) was never even a thought! As my feet grace across the pavement, future hopes and plans unfold in my head like a blueprint. Often I return home with big ideas that never materialize, but I keep dreaming anyway.

Running makes me strong. Physically, my body is stronger than six years ago - when a flight of steps left me panting for air. I've lost a bunch of weight since lacing up the running shoes. My daily runs help me to keep my weight in check, despite my love for food and beer. But even more important, running gives me mental strength I never thought was in me. I feel like I can conquer anything... if I take it one step at a time.

Running is important in my life. Can you tell?

So when I read these pretentious attacks about running, it quite frankly pisses me off.  Several people sent me links to articles this week... Running hurts your knees. Running has no purpose. Runners wear silly clothes. Marathons make you fat. Running is waste of time. Running tears down your muscles... blah, blah, blah. There are some interesting reads. Other times, it's just a writer looking to stir up a reaction and get pageviews.  I too wrote college research papers and am fully aware that you can find a research study out there to support any claim you want to promote. Been there; done that.

So here's my answer to all those articles who'd like to talk negatively about running... You clearly don't understand the euphoria that a simple run can bring. Truly, I'm sorry for that. I would love for everyone to catch a runner's high once a day. It would be a better world, for that I am certain.  So here's an idea... stop pretending you know what running is about and save those judgements and ridicules for yourself. (Yes, running with a tutu just might make us faster... or at least happier. So what's it to you?) 

I realize that running is not everyone's passion... maybe you like weight lifting, zumba, gardening, or a combination of it all. Whatever your interest is, DO IT and enjoy it with every fiber of your being. But stop the debate of which activity is better. Whatever activity excites you on the inside and keeps you active is the BEST... for you. Let it be at that. In fact, you should be happy when your neighbor finds an activity that makes them a better person - even if it's running. Who knows, they may be the person that "runs for help" someday when you need it...