Running for Cupcakes

Just over a year ago, I posted about my intentions for 2013, particularly to participate in the California Half Marathon series.  My goal was to resume training and to thereby run 4 half marathons.  Well, needless to say.  It didn't happen.  I continued to run erratically and took part in only one race - the Moonshine Trail Race - which was brutal! Sadly, I didn't blog about it then - I may have to write a reflective post someday.

As 2014 approached, I reflected upon my failed effort to run 4 halves and I began to reevaluate my goals for the new year.  I really, really miss running.  I miss the strength it provided my spirit and body.  I miss how connected I feel to the earth when running.  Anyway ...

Since we moved to Northern California, the Redding Marathon has intrigued me.  I knew I wasn't ready for the full this year but I thought perhaps the relay would be the ticket to rediscovering my love of running and thereby making running a priority in my life.  

I recruited two other runners, both of whom backed out (one the day after I registered our team and the other just 3 weeks prior to the race).  Fortunately, a former student whom I hadn't seen since she was in 4th grade answered by plea for help on Facebook and volunteered.  Proudly, my daughter stepped up to run the final leg.  

While training and helping my daughter to up her mileage prior to race day - I rediscovered my running mojo.  I had such fun training with her.  

Come race day - the weather was perfect and all three of us had strong runs.  I even managed to maintain a 9:03 pace for my entire leg (9+ miles).  I was pleased with my effort and so very proud of my daughter who was laughing and smiling when we saw her midway and again at the finish.  She looked so strong and was having a blast!

Jessica, my former student, also blogs (We Run for Cupcakes) and she motivated me to continue blogging myself.  "I love reading running blogs," she stated.  I knew she was right.  While I blog regularly for homeschool - my goal there is to inspire and help other homeschool families.  My running blog is for me.  To stay motivated .. I need this outlet.  

One of the best things about race day was reconnecting with not one former student, but two!  Jessica had flown to San Francisco and then drove up the morning of the race with a friend of hers, Steven, who to my surprise, was another former student.  He ran cross country all through high school and college and while we were running the relay, he put in 14 miles of his own!  Impressive.  

I had a great time catching up with them both and loved talking about running.  It reinvigorated me.   To our surprise and delight, Jessica presented us with cupcakes at the finish.  Love!!  I will be running for cupcakes forever more.  

2nd Dirty Half :: Race Report

A few months back, I signed up for the Footzone's 2nd Dirty Half.   The Footzone does a remarkable job coordinating their races ... there is frequently a cap on participants due to the logistics of running on the trails within the national forest ... their shirt designs rock ... and the finishers receive cool mugs as opposed to a medal that is draped around our necks and then tucked away in a drawer or hanging in some remote location collecting dust. 

As the race came I didn't know what to expect. I had not been as sedulous with my training as I have been in the past.  I was thereby unsure of my condition and I had not previewed the course, though I rarely do.  I had signed up to assure that I would stay on track with training ... without the proverbial carrot, I tend to slack off and talk myself out of runs, preferring to stay curled up in bed with a book or engage the kiddos in lessons.

Come race day, it was cold. I don't recall the exact temperature but I believe it was about 20 degrees or it at least felt that way. I found myself wishing that I had worn a tights and a long-sleeved shirt rather than the shorts and capped sleeves I donned.  I figured I'd warm up within the first mile or two so I didn't worry too much.  Instead, I allowed my sons exhuberance to distract me ... we had purchased his Halloween costume just the day before and he insisted on wearing his fire-fighter uniform to the race.  "There might be a fire, Mommy.  You never know."

I am comfortable in the middle of the pack and had no high aspirations other than to enjoy myself.  I knew I wouldn't PR and really didn't even have a finish time in mind.  My thought was to start slow not knowing the course and only hearing that the first 6 miles climbs up then you come down. Most of that was right and it was a slow steady climb for about 6 miles. I just got into an easy groove trying to keep the pack within reach.

I continued in my groove and once we made the lollipop and started heading back down I picked it up. I like the deep steep technical stuff but since I have suffered two scary falls in the past (one that curtailed my training for my first marathon and one that resulted in a severely broken wrist) on these Central Oregon trails, I have also learned to take it easy.   I had to stop around my 7 to re-tie my shoe.  The tongue had slipped and the lacing was now causing the top of my foot to really trouble me.  As a result of my delay, I lost the pack I had been clinging to and was alone for several miles.

I was passed again around mile 10.  This time I vowed to keep the young woman within my reach.  Though I went into this race promising myself I wouldn't let competition carry me away, I found it impossible to adhere to this while the adrenaline ran through me.  As we came up to mile 13 there was a nasty short steep hill to climb.  I had had a feeling we would encounter another killer hill ... it had been eluded to in the course description.  The woman ahead of me and I both walked a significant portion of this hill and resumed our pace on the crest.

With just a little more than 2 miles to go, I began to slowly increase my pace to diminish the gap.  I was right on her tail for a few tenths of a mile ... waiting for the trail to widen as I didn't feel like hurdling the sagebrush and knew that breathing down her neck would take a little zest away from her psychologically.  I finally passed her with about 1/2 mile to go.  It was a struggle to hang on ... my legs were so heavy.

Rounding the corner at the Seventh Mountain Resort, I saw my family awaiting me.  They turned just as I called out and began cheering loudly.  The kiddos ran alongside me for a moment and I tried to put in a little kick but I didn't have much in me for once ... 2:18 - not a PR but I'm pleased.  I truly had given this race my all. 

The post race celebration featured delicious burritos and beer.  I know some of my readers will be aghast to discover I don't like beer ... I imbibed in the berry smoothies instead.

So ... what next?

The Sail Beneath My Wings

This weekend, my plan was to participate in the Cascade Lakes Open Water Swim at Elk Lake, an event that other obligations have always prevented me from taking part in the past.  This year looked to be no different ... I struggled for awhile with the decision whether to attend my high school reunion or swim at Elk Lake.  In the end, I elected to swim as those I was closest to were not able to attend the reunion.

I volunteered to bring bagels up on Saturday morning which come to find out, assured me an awesome parking space near the day use area where the races would take place.  I arrived early which allowed me time to take everything in and visit with my teammates as they began to arrive (they had all camped the night before and had walked over from Little Fawn Campground to the day use area).  As we talked race strategy and caught up with one another - I hadn't been able to swim since Monday so we hadn't talked in a while.  They were captivated by my story of calling 911 and the paramedics coming to my home the previous morning (my neighbors 13-month old had had a seizure in reaction to a high fever - apparently relatively normal for young children - and she had come to me in panic).  As a result, I had opted to stay home on Friday to help with her older children and allow her time to attend to her youngest. I thereby didn't swim on Friday as I had planned.

This picture shows the course for the 500m time trial ... each buoy was 25m apart.  From shore, they seemed much closer than they were once we were in the water.  I swam an easy 200m or so as a warm-up about 40 minutes prior to the start.  As our start times were seeded 20 seconds apart, I didn't begin until 31 minutes after the first swimmer.  Earlier in the week, I had purchased a rash guard but discovered the morning of the swim that because it had 1mm of neoprene, it constituted as a wetsuit. Coach said, "Hey! You might even be in contention for age group wins because of it!"  It was a little too large and since it was a shirt and not a full body suit, it created a lot of drag.  I noticed this right away and could feel the pull and the flap of the fabric all along the course.  

The 500m race began on shore just beneath the sign shown in the photo and upon the word 'go' each swimmer ran out approximately 20-25m before the water was deep enough to actually swim.  In doing so, I went out too fast.  By the time I had swam about 200m, I was out of breath.  I swam a few breast strokes and tried to find my comfort zone.  Having difficulty breathing brings upon a bit of a panic feeling and in turn breathing is difficult again - making it nearly impossible to recover.  I tried swimming a little backstroke as well after I had gone around the last buoy.

I was being passed left and right ... somehow my seed time was 8:25 for the 500m - I doubt I could swim that in the pool let alone open water.  I don't know how I got seeded so high.  My comfort level doesn't abate when I see my team mate pass me on the right, knowing she had started nearly 2 minutes behind me.  I'm not enjoying this.

Somehow or another, I manage to make it to shore.  With relief, I stood up as soon as my hands touched bottom in the down stroke.  I was upright ... I was running.  Relief!  I crossed the finish strong and recorded a 12:13 finish.  Because I was the only one in my age group wearing a wetsuit, I got first. All I could do was chuckle.

As I sat on shore contemplating the next swim ... the 1500m ... I knew I wasn't up to swimming 3x the distance with which I had already struggled. I opted to scratch and headed home to pack up for the evening - the plan now was to return to Little Fawn Campground - the kids would get to play with their friends and I'd get to visit with my girlfriend.  The following day, I would swim the last swim in the short series - the 1000m.  I don't give up easily.  I wanted to give it another go.  This time I would go out slower ... and sans wetsuit or rash guard.

This didn't work out either.  One thing after another ... plans were derailed. Cold night. Shivering.  Didn't sleep well.  Depressed. Blah blah blah.  Come Sunday morning, I didn't have it in me. 

Elevation DOES Make a Difference :: 1 Hour Postal Event

For the past couple of years, I have been participating in the USMS Postal Challenges. The objective of the One Hour Postal in January is to swim as far as possible in one hour in any pool you choose that is 25 yards or longer. Some people do the One Hour Postal event for competition, while others do it for fitness. To gauge my level of fitness is my primary reason for participating. Additionally, the team also earns points for participation so coach always urges us to take part. Throughout 2009, I had been in a training slump. Brought on my injury and possible burn-out, I wasn't able to run much last year. I know this has affected my swimming. I was curious to know just how much.

Before I go into detail about yesterday's swim, I'll recap quickly the previous Postal Challenges I have participated in years past.

Nov 2008 - 3000m - 57:36
Jan 2009 - 1 hour - 3160 yards
Nov 2009 - 3000m - 57.29.99

Going into the swim today, I was feeling very comfortable. I just wanted to swim. My goal, of course, was to exceed 3000m. I had hit that mark in under an hour in November (3000m Postal Challenge) - I felt confidant that I could do it again.

I swam the second heat - recording splits and timing for my swim partner, Scott. He, too, had hopes of exceed 3000m. He started out strong and though his pacing was solid... it was just a little too slow. In the end, he hit 2975m when the horn sounded.

Foreshadowing what would happen to me. I started out strong - my first 100 split was 1:41 (50 and 51 sec each 50m). Faster than what I generally swim during the repeat 100s that we swim regularly on Fridays. For the next 300m, I was solid at about 58 sec per 50m. From that point on, however, my pace slowly declines. Solid 1:00 splits for the next 500m then I slipped to 1:04 which is where I stayed for most of the swim. Urgh! At the horn, I was just a smidge shy of 2900m which equates to 3171.478 yards. Slightly farther than last year. I'm okay with that.

When I swam it last year - we were at the coast so I swam the event in my home town pool nearly at sea level. This was an older pool and was constructed at the more common 25 yards. I feel very strongly that the pool length and the elevation played a big part in my performance. Next year, I may very well make plans to be on the coast again.

Next month, the Tualatin Hills Barracudas is hosting a February Fitness Challenge. An annual postal fitness swimming event held during the month of February to promote fitness through swimming by encouraging individuals to swim regularly and track the results during a one month period. I'm already tracking my swimming meters for Go the Distance. I am now wondering if I couldn't swim at least 500m each day ?? A 28 day swimming streak? Probably too overzealous.

Eel Lake Open Water Swim

This past summer has been quite unusual in that I haven't been training (not swimming... not running... not lifting... ) as often as I have in the past. In the month of August, I swam just 3 times before the open water swim at Eel Lake on the 22nd. It is no wonder things didn't go as planned.

We drove over to the coast on Friday afternoon. Still not yet recuperated from the previous weekend in NYC, DH and I were on edge and we started out with a nasty argument over my planning skills - er lack thereof in his opinion. I'm usually on top of things but on Friday, things fell apart as I was trying to do too much. Therefore, everytime I recalled something I had forgotten, he'd poke me again. Come Saturday morning, my mental preparedness was simply sour.

DH drove me up to the lake and dropped me off (he and the kids would come back a little later for my swim - no sense hanging out during sign-in). I arrived in the midst of the 3000m swim. It was a little intimidating to see the swimmers come in after the first loop and then continue out again for the second and final loop.
I checked in right away and my number was written on my shoulder (the only moment I thought to take picture). While I waited on shore, I talked with Coach a little - he gave me a few pointers about sighting (as from the water surface the first buoy wouldn't be visible). I was increasingly nervous though I didn't know why. I just didn't know what to expect, I guess.

A moment later, a man approached me and asked, "Eva?" I knew immediately it was Jon, a friend from grade school who I hadn't seen since college. We both attended OSU and ran into each other a couple of times - but otherwise our circles didn't cross - I had moved after 9th grade and we'd lost touch. Facebook had brought us back together and the swim meet sealed the deal. We talked for a little while - not long enough. I hope to get together again next time we're over.

My girlfriend arrived a little later and we discussed strategy... not that I had any. She, on the other hand, planned to stick to another lane mate. They are both stronger swimmers than I - I knew it was in my best interest not to even attempt to do the same.

The first swim was a 500m mystery swim. My plan was to use the 500 as my warm-up for the 1500m. This worked out well and it definitely helped get the nerves out. We lined up in number order - this meant I swam 9th - with 10 seconds between each swimmer. A couple swimmers thereby passed me but I wasn't concerned. The 500 was in a little cove of the lake and we began by swimming parallel to the shoreline to the first marker - a pole on which a cow bell hung. We were to stand and ring the bell loud.

We then proceeded to the second marker, a cooler, in the middle of the cove. From there we were to retrieve a lanyard with a number marker - not to worry, all the lanyard float - and then to the finish where we would exchange the lanyard for a grab bag prize. My lanyard was #46 and my prize (as was everyone's) was a couple of coupons and a Cranberry Sweets lemon pie candy. My girlfriend was #12 and she finished right behind me - I knew then I wasn't having a good swim day.

The 1500m was a mass start... across the lake to a buoy 700m out. Round the buoy on our left side, swim around the point (or, if we chose, we could walk across the shallow area - so long as we were splashing / stayed wet) and into the cove to the second and final buoy. The start was good - there were about 60 swimmers so there was a comfortable space between each of us. At first I was behind a young man with fins - I thought to myself, "Wouldn't it be sweet if I couldn't stay in his wake?" But I knew this would have been foolish, "He's got fins for Pete's sake!" There was no way I was going to keep up with him.

I wanted to stay in the middle of the pack. I'm comfortable there. As we got farther from shore, however, and as I was passed by more and more swimmers, I soon realized that I was far from the middle of the pack. I was lucky if I wasn't the last swimmer. This really bothered me.

The wind had really picked up as well and it was very choppy. Many times I took in a mouthful of water. I started to get disoriented and felt a little dizzy. I was zig-zagging all over. I panicked a little and turned over to do back stroke. "Calm down! It's just a swim... you can do this!"

Just before the first buoy, I swam into a wall of lake weed. It was about a foot below me and I panicked again. I started to breast stroke. I was concerned my freestyle stroke would cause me to touch it. "Calm down! It's Elodea! You use this in science... nothing to be afraid of."

I rounded the buoy beside two other swimmers - an older man I didn't recognize and an older woman on the COMA team who swims in Lane 1. After the buoy, the both picked up the pace and left me in their wake. My competitive side kicked in and I thought to myself, "There is no way I am going to let her finish before me. I can't. It would kill my ego." I thereby did my best to pick it up as well.

At the point, I was just 10m or so behind her. I opted to jog across the shallow point - hoping to shake out the legs and make up a little time. It was muddy and very slippery. I couldn't run as much as I had hoped. I dove back in and as I did so - I felt the water wash off the frustration and anger. My kick had not forsaken me. I rounded the last buoy and managed to pass her just 10m from the finish. When it was too shallow to swim, I stood up and ran in under the banner to the finish.

DH was there with a towel. I covered my eyes and allowed him to hold me as I shook off my tears and allowed myself to gain control of my emotions. I was very disappointed in my swim. I don't yet know my time - and I really don't care. This swim was a HUGE learning experience for me.

On the drive home DH said to me, "If you were so scared and panicky, why didn't you just turn around?" "Turn around?! Quit?!" There was no way I was going to do that. I had to finish. I described to him the scenario that all little kids experience - "When you fall off your bicycle, do you simply walk way? No! You get back on and continue forth. You try again." There is no way I am going to let this be my final open water swim. I know I can do better.

Photo courtesy of Toni Brown

COMA won the Large Team Oregon Association Open Water Championships. Coach says, "Although our fastest swimmers present scored some big points, this was a truly a team triumph—this win really belonged to the swimmers who usually swim in lanes one, two, and three; who showed up in force, swam great races, and provided the difference between first and second. Brava and Bravo! Thanks for being there and making it happen again!" Okay. That makes me feel better. Lane 2 rocks! :D

Competition Builds Friendship

This weekend has been so much fun! For the first time ever, I competed in a swim meet, Oregon Masters Swimming Association Championships. I had only a vague idea of what to expect, having previously participated in only 2 all-comers meets. I was actually surprised by the number of swimmers!

The 3-day event began on Friday evening with just two events, the 400 yard IM and the 1650 yard freestyle. I was entered in the 1650. Having completed two postal events in the past few months (3000 yard postal in November and the 1 hr postal in January), I was confidant that I would be able to complete the distance. My goal was to exceed my seed time (predicted time) of 29:00.

I started off the block and wouldn't you know it, my goggles slipped off slightly. I tried adjusting them mid-swim but that didn't work so I stopped at the wall and made the necessary correction. From then on, I was pretty steady according to my teammates. I have a hard time getting the feel for my pace when I am swimming. I am pretty consistent running and can generally gauge my pace pretty well - but not in the water. I finished in 29:08.25 - good enough for 3rd place in my age group (note, however, there were only 3 entries in my age group). I felt so much better with the first swim behind me. I don't know why I had been so nervous.

I didn't compete on Saturday as we had a number of other obligations. One of which was the Sons of Norway social where I finally had the opportunity to get my picture taken with Priscilla Welch. She was inducted into the National Distance Running Hall of Fame in August. She holds several masters' women's records at a variety of distances, including the women's masters' marathon with a time of 2 hours, 26 minutes, 51 seconds.

Sunday morning, my girlfriend picked me up and we arrived at the meet early. One of the best parts of the weekend was getting an opportunity to meet Jeff of Oregon Adventures. I love how the internet brings people with shared passions together. Without my blog, Jeff and I would likely never have met otherwise. Having a buddy there made the event even more enjoyable.

I naively didn't sign up for many events on Sunday. In retrospect, I wish I had done the 500 yard freestyle - I'll know next time. As it was, as each event passed, my anxiety level grew. I was getting quite antsy so I opted to jump in and warm-up earlier than I initially planned. I was glad that I did - the events preceding mine (the 200 medley relays) went by much quicker than I had anticipated. Originally I thought I was going to compete in one ... but in the end 2 other swimmers had to scratch and coach had to pull our entry. Bummer.

My performance in the 100 yard back far exceeded my expectations. Based on my performance in the all-comers meet, I had predicted to finish in about 1:55. I spent a lot of time the past couple of weeks though working on my flip turns and I think it made all the difference. I nailed all 3 turns and finished in 1:38:56 (5th place of 6 entries) ... I was delighted! Thankfully, Jeff was there at the finish and helped to lift me out of the pool - I was just too tired to climb out on my own. As I swam in lane 5, I didn't have time to move to the side of the pool and the next heat was nearly on the blocks.

The best part of the entire weekend was the opportunity to watch my teammates swim and cheer everyone on in their respective events. It was fun to watch the elite swimmers - it is so amazing to watch their form and a good opportunity to learn where I can improve.

I'm looking forward now to competing in an open water event this summer and potentially a triathlon. We'll see how the calendar falls out when DH and I can sit down together.

8 on the 8th ~ Race Report

I did it! For once, life's obligations and nuances did not get in the way and I actually completed one of Nancy's Virtual Races. Yippee!!

My sitter came over this morning and I headed out on my weekly trail run. It was humid - 47% and relatively warm (though not as much as it has been earlier this summer) - 75 degrees.
I started the run with the intention of taking it easy... I've been pretty fatigued this week following the 30K on Saturday. Circumstances prevented me from swimming on Tues and Thrs both, so I have just not been up to par this week. My muscles are tight and my right heel has been hinting that trouble may be coming, reminding me to take it easy.
At the 4.5 mile mark, I stopped at the park for water... I then proceeded home. I returned to my cheer squad and the finish in 1:21:27 ... an average 10:10 min per mile. Certainly not my best performance but acceptable.We are looking forward to watching the Olympics this year. I am most looking forward to the running and swimming events, naturally. Go USA! :D

I Circled the Bay, Again!

Just as the newspaper article had predicted, there were significantly fewer runners participating in this years annual Circle the Bay run in North Bend. As it turned out, this had a significant effect on my performance. The picture below shows the packet pick-up and race-day registration area.... many of the runners, the volunteers, and the loved ones that came out to support us are actually pictured here!
Here is DH and the Asst. Fire Chief - one of my high school classmates! They worked together for several years before we moved to Central Oregon and became good buddies. "Chief" was there to run support for the race - blocking off the busier intersections in town and on hand in case of an emergency. A huge shout out to all those who volunteer their time so we can have a fun, safe race!DH followed me for much of the course playing photographer! He got a lot of really great photos and it was fun to have him along to converse with on occasion - particularly as I ran along East Bay Drive. There were so few participants that I felt, at times, like I was out there all alone! I had no clue how I was doing. Last year, when the final runner for a relay team sprinted past me after she took the baton at mile 13, it became my mission to finish before her. I didn't have that incentive this year. There wasn't anyone within eyesight to chase.
Due to construction on the McCullough Bridge this year, the race directors had to make an impromptu change in the course. After mile 17, they actually forged a trail that took us beneath the bridge to cross to the other side - I presume the state wouldn't allow them to stop traffic there at the intersection.

This next picture shows me starting down the trail. The man behind me has run the Circle the Bay for 16 consecutive years! He passed me just before mile 10 and I kept him within eye sight for the middle miles. I always fade in the middle and true to my nature, I caught him here in the final miles. I'm also fond of trail running whereas he slowed significantly to watch his step.
Here, DH caught me as I proceeded up... it was quite the climb. I just kept laughing about it!

Due to the course change, this also meant that the finish line was moved slightly. Runners no longer had to circle the baseball field... we were able to finish nearly immediately upon entering the park.
My time is visible on the clock but no great finish line photo... just my back side. All along the 30K course, the lyrics to "I Kissed a Girl" by Katy Perry went through my head. It is a very catchy, high tempo song and it kept my legs moving.

For those that like numbers, my mile splits are listed below. The Garmin didn't sync-up until I was just 100 yards or so from the first mile marker, however. It was keeping time though so it should be relatively accurate.

Mile 1 - 8:08
Mile 2 - 8:16
Mile 3 - 8:26
Mile 4 - 8:36
Mile 5 - 8:32
Mile 6 - 8:29
Mile 7 - 9:19 2 significant hills and a water stop
Mile 8 - 8:21
Mile 9 - 8:38
Mile 10 - 9:21 Huh? I don't recall what happened here.
Mile 11 - 8:30
Mile 12 - 8:58 I'm starting to fade...
Mile 13 - 8:59
Mile 14 - 8:57
Mile 15 - 9:18 The hills begin...
Mile 16 - 10:16
Mile 17 - 9:08
Mile 18+ - 16:02 I didn't see the 18 mile marker.
Finish: 2:46:24 (average 8:56 min mile pace)

And for those who like graphs and charts - here's a visual from the Garmin:

All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait ~ Dirty Half Part 2

I have ran the Dirty Half once before in 2006 - my first race experience longer than a 10K. I recall struggling in the last 3-4 miles of that race and crossing the finish line in 2:09. I had been very happy with my performance. In Eugene last year, I finished the half-marathon course in 1:49... my PR. I submitted my PR on the race registration form and was thereby seeded in the 2nd of 3 starting times.

As the runners walked to the starting line from the finish area (where packet pick-up/parking were staged), I talked briefly with another runner. He was seeded in the first wave. I told him I was in the 2nd group, "I'm a middle-of-the-pack girl." He said, "Ah. You are racing yourself, then?" My reply was, "I don't even think I'll be doing that today. I am just here to enjoy myself." He agreed it was a beautiful day for that and we wished one another luck.

The race course of the Dirty Half is almost entirely single-track trail, bordered by Sage, Manzanita and Bitterbrush. The terrain, swirvy cut-backs, rocks and exposed roots deceptively hidden in the shade of the Ponderosa Pines makes footing and the possibility of passing difficult. The race begins on an open road way, but then bottlenecks onto the trail within the first 800-1200m. The route includes a 1,000 foot elevation gain - not much really, but it comes at you right away.
As per my race strategy, I went out a little faster than race pace, intending on getting ahead of the slower runners. In '06, I went out slow and got caught behind a group of very giggly, desperate housewives (or so it seemed) who were more interested in catching up with the latest gossip than running the race. I wasn't able to pass them for several miles. I didn't want to experience that again. When the course merged onto the trail, the Garmin reported a pace of 7:54... I best slow down. Easily done as I settled into my spot within the 'ant trail'.

Mile 1 - 8:42
Mile 2 - 9:38
Mile 3 - 10:22

On the third mile, I started experiencing severe side cramps/stitch just as I had the last few miles of the Eugene Marathon. I pulled over and stretched a little... repeating Kenny Moore's advice, "Start Slowly. Finish Strongly." I had been drafting behind a woman that my friend (see part 1) had introduced to me at the starting line. She was wearing a red shirt and strapped around her waist were 3 bottles of some sort of fluid... we'll call her Green Gu Girl. I recall that she had asked each of us what our goal finish time was and that she was hoping for a 1:45ish finish despite not having run more than 6 miles. When I stepped off the trail to let the runners behind proceed, I told myself that I would catch her. I would finish strongly.

When I jumped onto the trail again, I fell behind 3 ladies running in a little pack. They leaped frogged one another for a mile and then settled into their places. The one in the back was wearing this years race t-shirt and coordinated green shorts. As the front two began to pull away and as I could no longer see Green Gu Girl ahead of us, I set a new goal for myself, to beat this one! We'll call her Lucky #7 (the race logo for the 7th running of the Dirty Half).

Mile 4 - 9:39
Mile 5 - 9:38
Mile 6 - 9:35

I settled into a comfortable pace. As I approached the water station just before mile 6, I started having more side stitches. I need to get a handle on this - I'm going to do some research later. Perhaps it's the Immodium (I took one before the race today and before the Eugene Marathon)... as I haven't experienced this any other time? I walked through the water station and Lucky #7 eventually gained enough ground that I couldn't see her anymore.

Mile 7 - 8:46
Mile 8 - 9:02
Mile 9 - 8:48
Mile 10 - 8:59

Just as I began to accept that these women would indeed finish before me, I caught a glimpse of Green Gu Girl about 400m ahead. I knew if I held on and stayed focused I could in fact catch her. I began to slowly diminish the distance between us. There were just a few miles left and I knew the worst was behind us.

I think others must have had the same idea for several people started to pick up the pace and start passing people. Most were men so I let them go without a fuss, but when another young woman with short pigtails passed me, I declared her prey as well. I drafted off her for a mile or two, hoping to wear her down a little. She picked up the pace and pulled ahead, but never more than a 100m.

Mile 11 - 9:31
Mile 12 - 8:45

We passed Green Gu Girl. We passed a few others. We got behind Lucky #7. At the first opportunity to pass, I jumped. I had to hurdle a couple bushes of Sagebrush but I managed to get past both Pig Tails and Lucky #7.

The last mile was the hardest. I was fatigued but I knew Pigtails was right behind me. She passed me with 3/4 mile to go... "Oh no you don't!" I thought to myself and I surged ahead of her again. "Just 1/2 mile. Stay strong." We rounded the restroom and headed down the last stretch to the finish.

Mile 13 - 8:48

I looked up and saw DH and the kiddos cheering, "Go Mommy!" I gave them our traditional sign, "I love you!" as I tried to stay the course. I could hear Pigtails behind me... or so I thought. The picture DH took shows a guy (from the 3rd wave) on my heels, not the girl. Hmm?
I can see the finish. To my right, a woman lifts up her camera and yells, "Go Lindsay!" It comes to me in a flash... Lindsay is 'Pigtails'. I remember both women from the running group I had run with once last year - the last time I was on this exact trail - the time I fell and broke my wrist! I remember them both beating me in the Horse Butte 10 miler in April of last year.Not this time! I cross the finish line and the clock reads 2:00:23. Lindsay finishes in 2:00:27.

I pick up the coveted mug - I'm enjoying my morning coffee with it now - rendezvous with the family and we proceed home. It has been a good morning.

To Run or Not to Run? ~ Dirty Half Part 1

There were multiple occasions this past week when I questioned whether or not I should even participate in the Dirty Half this year.  Though I registered months ago, I just haven't kept my training level up since the Eugene Marathon.  

The final for the art class I am taking to renew my teaching credential is due on Wednesday and I admittedly have procrastinated.  I put a tremendous amount of time into creating the required 24 week curriculum - only to discover yesterday that I had overlooked major components and the time I invested was for naught.  Anyway - I have been stressing about this class more than I need to really.  

Then Mother Nature comes for a visit... I catch a little cold... get little sleep last night. Buddy woke up at 3 a.m. screaming, "MOMMY!  MOMMY!"  Apparently he wet his bed so I had to address his needs before I could return to my distressed slumber.

I just wasn't feeling it, ya know?  I had paid the race fee though so I figured I better at least show up to earn that T-shirt and the coveted mug at the finish line.  My only goal being to enjoy myself and NOT FALL DOWN!!

Morning finally arrived and as I proceeded to eat an English Muffin and prepare my Camelback for the trail, I inadvertently screwed the lid on askew and had to get DH to help me get it off again.  He was successful but also managed to spill much of the water out which was quickly soaked up on the inside fabric part of the pouch - the part that would rest upon my lower back. DH teased me that it would eventually be wet with sweat anyway but I didn't want to start that way so I held it beneath the hair dryer for a time.

The rest of the morning was uneventful.  DH and the kiddos drove me to the trailhead, each one giving me a kiss for good luck.  I then walked down to the finish area and picked up my bib.  I looked around for runners I knew but didn't find one until just before the gun.  I ended up lining up next to a woman I ran with occasionally a year or so ago (she used to live in the neighborhood but has since moved and we've basically lost contact).  We chatted briefly, she introduced me to a couple of other ladies, and we were off.

A Beautiful Day in Eugene

Everything fell into place yesterday and despite my prior burnout, low mileage weeks & sub-par training going into the race, I still managed to finish with a personal best time. I'm elated!

Pre-Race

We left the high desert around 9:30 a.m.on Saturday and drove over the mountains. We made a quick stop at the Expo to pick up our race goodies. Sweetie was registered to participate in the Kids' Fun Run - when she got her T-shirt, she hugged it tightly and squealed with joy! I think she'll be a runner! :D We meandered about the Expo for a short time but not seeing anything that called out my name, we departed.

We then met up with my brother and his family at Pappa's Pizza so the kids could play and we could catch up a little. After lunch, I encouraged them to join us on a letterboxing quest at a nearby park. DH and my SIL were a little less then enthusiastic... but the kids were looking forward to it so they were good sports. Thank you for humoring us!

We managed to find 2 of the 4 hidden boxes. We found the first relatively easily. The 2nd one never revealed itself though I know we must have been looking in the right place. The 3rd was found with a little more effort than was required by the 1st. We gave up on the 4th - not even finding the right trail with which to begin. In the end, I think I have created a new family of zealous letterboxers. The kids had a great time and my SIL asked all sorts of questions about how one goes about creating your own stamp, etc. Mission accomplished. :D

We said good-bye to our family and then coincidently meandered along part of the marathon course to get to our motel. It was nice to see a part of the course and mentally prepare myself for the big race. We checked in and as DH took a little siesta, I laid out our clothes for the race, pinning on our bibs and tucking a little snack bar that we picked up at the Expo into Sweetie's pocket.

We then met up with Bar and Kong at PF Chang's for dinner. We did the same last year when Kong and I ran the half and we looked forward to a new tradition. Kong wasn't running this year but they drove down from the big city to cheer me on. AWESOME! Thank you guys! Dinner was great and thereafter we retired to our motel. The kids actually went to bed relatively easily - I worried they wouldn't since they both slept during the drive over.

Race-day Morning

I woke just before the wake-up call at 5:45 and proceeded to get ready. I brewed a small pot of coffee for DH. I enjoyed about 1/2 cup myself along with two thick slices of banana bread that I had brought along with me. I then took 2 immodium to hopefully prevent undesired visits to the porta-potty. According to Runners World (May 2008), 24% of women ages 25-44 experience symptoms of stress incontinence - this would be me! Turns out they were called "Honey Buckets" - I should have brought along my camera for a Marcy inspired photo-op. As it turned out, the immodium was a superb idea... I didn't have to stop once!

We woke the kids at 6:30 and then proceeded over to Hayward field. Just as we did last year, DH drops me off at the intersection and I jogged the few blocks to the start. He then returned to the motel for breakfast and then took Sweetie to her race at 8 a.m. Unfortunately, due to parking and other nuances, he didn't get a chance to take photos of her race. Bar and Kong stated that she ran so fast, they missed her race, too. Bummer. She had a great time, though. She said (and DH confirmed) that she ran the entire mile just as she did last year. "Bigger kids were stopping and walking but I didn't!"

When I got to the start of my race, I immediately found the 9:00 minute pace group. I was surprised to learn that the pace leader wasn't going to carry his pace sign. At Portland and Sacramento, the pace leaders carried a sign the entire 26.2 miles and it was thereby easy to keep an eye on the pace group even from a distance. I scanned the crowd looking for Jeff... we had spoken earlier by phone and as we both planned to run the same place, we planned to run together. I never found him, though. Bummer!

The Race Itself

When the gun went off, the first mile was a little slow, 9:11. I picked up the pace just a little and finished the second mile in 8:15 - a little fast. I was feeling really good, though. I thereby decided that I was going to run my race. I was going to aim for a 3:50 marathon and if I was feeling good towards the end, perhaps I could pick up the pace. As each mile was completed, I realized that I was a solid two minutes ahead of pace at each marker. This was exciting and I started to visualize the possibility of qualifying. After all, it was possible.

My mom was posted near the UO Admin building (mile 8 1/2) and took a few photos. It is always inspiring to see loved ones along the way who've come out to support you. It certainly helps to distract you and thereby stay on pace. Kong was posted at mile 9 1/2 and I was able to toss my gloves to her. Thank you! Two miles later and the route then proceeded through Springfield - the portion of the course that I dislike the most. I would have loved to see my dad there but he couldn't make it today as he was caring for my grandma. Her well-being is certainly more important than my race and I dedicated mile 22 (her birthday is Feb 22) to her.

My mom surprised me when she was at mile 13 1/2 as well. She proved to surprise me several times throughout the day, playing Leap Frog with me. Thank you, Mom! Shortly thereafter, the course returned to the river and we made our way through Alton Baker park for a second time. I knew I would see DH and the kiddos somewhere and started to really scan the crowds. DH saw me first (between miles 15 and 16) and yelled, "Go, Makita!" His voice resonated above everyones and it helped put a little pep into my step. I got a big hug from my little sweeties and they yelled, "Go, Momma, Go!"

My brother was just past mile 17 outside McMennamins. He was crouched on the side of the trail to take photos and when I realized it was him (it took a moment because the camera was in front of his face), I started to move towards the side. The runner in front of me must have thought he was race photographer because she did the same thing, thereby blocking me from his view. I hope he got at least one of me! He told me later that throughout the race, several runners actually started posing for him... he obliged and later deleted the pictures from his memory card. Too funny!

Mom must have picked my brother up because they both appeared again just past mile 18 at Valley River Center. At mile 19, I realized that I was no longer 2 minutes ahead of my pace strip but right on. I had slowed slightly. All I wanted at this point was to stay on... to maintain an even effort.

At mile 20, I started to struggle with a side cramp on my right. I bent over and pinched my side in an effort to make it stop. Another runner said to me, "A minute of stretching now will save 10 minutes later on." I replied, "It's a side ache not a muscle cramp." He suggested stretching my arms up over my head. I started doing that and it helped alleviate the pain for a short time but it kept coming back, each time a little stronger.

My mom and brother surprised me again at mile 22 and I was no longer smiling as I had been before. I was struggling. I didn't exactly encounter a wall like in Portland but it was certainly difficult to maintain pace. I knew at this point that I wasn't going to finish at 3:50 but if I held on I hoped to still PR. I walked briefly at every water stop at this point.

By mile 26, I had to walk briefly to stretch several times. My side really hurt - I hadn't ever experienced side aches like this before - a side ache that I couldn't make go away with focused breathing or a 'pinching'. I typically have a pretty strong kick. I have always been able to finish strong. Not this time. It was all I could do to run across the finish and not walk. When I looked up at the clock, I was elated to see 3:55... I couldn't believe I actually finished with a personal best.

Post-Race

It is amazing to me that though I have now completed three marathons, I continue to learn something with each one. I learned yesterday that I didn't push myself as hard as I could have in Sacramento. Though I lost several minutes in the porta potty, I didn't struggle much otherwise and wasn't sore the next day. My training going into CIM was solid. I should have done better but I had played it safe. My training going into Eugene yesterday was sub-par. However, I pushed myself from the start and though I struggled a little in the end, it paid off. Immodium is my friend.

3:55:25 Finishing Time
1:52:55 at the Half
2:53:58 at 20 Mile Mark
41 / 129 Place by Age Division
204 / 776 Place by Sex


Dedication

I dedicated many of the miles to friends and family - keeping each in mind as I tried to maintain pace. This really helped in the later miles as I began to struggle.

Mile 3 - My little buddy (he's 3 years old)
Mile 5 - Sweetie (she's 5)
Mile 10 - Steve Prefontaine (each mile was dedicated to a Eugene legend, mile 10 was Pre's)
Mile 16 - My brothers
Mile 17 - Paul MacDonald (a dear friend and former coach)
Mile 18 - My moms
Mile 19 - DH
Mile 20 - My dads
Mile 21 - My Running Blog Family :D
Mile 22 - My Grandma
Mile 23 - Albert
Mile 24 - Debbie & Lilli
Mile 25 - Bar & Kong
Mile 26 - My kiddos

The Splits

Mile 1 - 9:11
Mile 2 - 8:15
Mile 3 - 8:15
Mile 4 - 8:52
Mile 5 - 8:47
Mile 6 - 8:33
Mile 7 - 8:39
Mile 8 - 8:47
Mile 9 - 8:31
Mile 10 - 8:35
Mile 11 - 8:32
Mile 12 - 8:37
Mile 13 - 8:38
Mile 14 - 8:48
Mile 15 - 9:02
Mile 16 - 8:51
Mile 17 - 9:08
Mile 18 - 8:53
Mile 19 - 8:50
Mile 20 - 9:14
Mile 21 - 9:43
Mile 22 - 9:16
Mile 23 - 10:04
Mile 24 - 9:35
Mile 25 - 9:33
Mile 26 - 10:05
Last 0.2 - ?? (I forgot to hit the split and even failed to turn off the Garmin for several minutes after finishing.)

Very Quickly

Finishing Time: 3:55:259

I'm elated! More soon.

I *Heart* the CIM

What a great race... fabulous course... super spectators... inspirational runners. My report is divided into sections for easier reading ... feel free to skip ahead to the race itself. :D

~~~ Departure ~~~

A few weeks ago, DH suggested that we go without the kiddos and asked if my mom couldn't come over to watch them. Thankfully, she was able to... she came over Friday afternoon and the kids enjoyed decorating our Christmas tree with her that evening. Sweetie said, "This is so much fun. Especially with you, Grandma."

The next morning, DH and I left home at 5 a.m. We had a 7+ hour drive ahead of us and we wanted to arrive in Sacramento with sufficient time to spare. We didn't make a single stop and checked into our motel shortly after 12. We were both hungry and not eager to sit down and wait so we went to Del Taco (our first time - we both ordered Tacos al Carbon - small in size but very good).

We then drove over to the Expo and browsed around a little after we picked up my race goodies and bib. I sampled a few Luna Moon gels at the Clif booth. I enjoyed the small size and taste so I bought 4 packages for the race.

We went back to the motel so DH could nap as I laid out everything for the morning. We watched a bit of the civil war game and I took a short nap myself. We then decided upon The Olive Garden for dinner. We arrived at 5 - waited 30 minutes for a table - and then had poor service. Food was yummy, though. We went back to the motel - I soaked in the bath for a while, we watched a little TV and we were asleep by 9 or so.

We were awoken at about 2 a.m. by our 'neighbors' upstairs. I don't know exactly what they were doing (doors closing, bath water running, flushing toilets, hard heeled shoes clicking on the floor and wooden steps, loud voices/talking...) but they made it very difficult for us to fall asleep again. We tossed and turned until it was time to wake up at 4... they were still at it when we departed. I mistakenly didn't make reservations at a 'convention hotel' so we were not on the loop the shuttle buses would be stopping to pick up runners. DH thereby had to drive me to a 'participating hotel' and dropped me off.

~~~ Race Day Morning ~~~

In the lobby were two newbie marathon runners - their goal was to finish before the police 'sweeper vehicles'. They were excited and nervous. I wonder how they did? As we waited, a group of 'veterans' joined us. I ended up sitting next to one on the bus. It was nice to talk with someone with so much running experience. I inquired about race strategy, etc.

We arrived at the starting point in Folsom about an hour before the start. Most of us stayed on the bus until absolutely necessary. As lines for the porta-potties were getting quite long, I decided to get in que at 20 after. As I waited in line, I scanned faces hoping to see a familiar face. Just a few minutes later, I saw a woman that looked remarkably like Lillie, so I walked up to her and asked her name. It was her!

I was elated to meet her. In many ways, I look up to her. She is the type of runner I desire to be someday. She is also very, very sweet. Down-to-earth, warm, encouraging. She was there with her brother and we thereby chatted for several minutes. I wish I had had a camera!

After talking with the 'veterans' and Lillie about race stategy, I decided to start out a few seconds slower than the 3:45 pace group. As I warmed up and if I felt it, I would try to catch up with them and then just hold on until the finish.

~~~ The Race ~~~

I lined up between the 3:45 and 3:50 pace groups and was impressed to see there were more runners lined up behind me than there were in front. That was a good feeling. The race started promptly at 7 and I crossed the start line and thereby started the Garmin a few moments later. It is always an awkward feeling not to start running immediately.

I had gloves and a headband to cover my ears - I removed the gloves at mile 1 and the headband at mile 2. At mile 4, I removed my windbreaker and tied it around my waist. By mile 5, I had caught up with the 3:45 pace group... they were about 100 yards ahead of me. Unfortunately, I also had to use the porta-potty desperately at this point. There was a bit of a line so I lost several minutes here. After the call of nature, I picked up the pace and managed to catch the 3:50 pace group a few miles later. At the half, the Garmin read ~1:55, about 5 min. slower than my half PR. However, at this point, nature called once again. URGH! A few more minutes lost. When I stopped this second time, my legs started to tighten up. I couldn't quite resume the same pace I had previously maintained. I never saw the pace groups again.

My time at the 30K was approx. 2:45 - the same time as the Circle the Bay a few months ago. However, I had slowed significantly from the pace with which I had started. I thought of my family - of Sweetie cheering, "Go, Mommy, Go!" I thought of my blog friends and imagined them along the sidelines encouraging me to stick with it. I knew at this point that I wasn't going to achieve a qualifying time but I knew that if I dug deep, I would be able to finish under 4 hours. I couldn't falter though. I had to maintain. "Hang On." "Even Effort" became my mantra.

I ate the Luna Moon gels at miles 6, 13, 17, and 22. At the aide stations, I generally took GU2O unless I had just eaten a gel, in that case, I chose water. I even ate an orange slice somewhere along the way, Carmichael? I never really encountered a wall - not like I did in Portland in '06.
As I approached the finish with just a little more than a mile to go, I was able to pick up the pace.

I am fortunate to have always had a good kick, but it was all I could do to finish strong. When I rounded the corner and saw the finish line, the clock read 3:58... I knew then that I had made it under 4 hours. I got a little teary eyed. I've never been emotional after a shorter distance race - but completing a marathon - let alone finishing within goal time is a powerful thing.

My Mile Splits:

1 - 8:55
2 - 8:45
3 - 8:35
4 - 8:25
5 - 8:40
6 - 10:56 *
7 - 8:23
8 - 8:33
9 - 8:37
10 - 8:20
11 - 8:26
12 - 8:37
13 - 8:35
14 - 10:40 *
15 - 8:51
16 - 8:47
17 - 8:53
18 - 9:12
19 - 8:53
20 - 9:30
21 - 9:16
22 - 10:17
23 - 9:35
24 - 10:02
25 - 9:19
26 - 8:56
.02 - 1:40

Garmin read 26.39 miles at 3:57:50 - official time 3:57:46.

~~~ Post-Race ~~~

I found DH immediately. We slowly walked to the car and were on the freeway headed home by 11:20 a.m. He had saved a few things from breakfast for me (apple, banana, blueberry muffins) but I didn't feel like eating them. All I wanted was water and I couldn't find it - not even at the finish. We were eager to get going and I didn't want to wander around in the crowd. I drank a little of the Kefir yogurt I'd brought along - it was still cold. It tasted good but wasn't as refreshing as I desired. I napped for about an hour in the car. I was still tired but couldn't really get comfortable. My legs ached. We stopped at an In-n-Out in Redding shortly before 2 p.m. It was the best burger I've ever eaten; I probably could've eaten 2 but I didn't.

We encountered blizzard like conditions shortly after Redding. Travel was slow. We stopped in Weed for gas (just in case) and proceeded on our way. We made good time though - we're equipped with snow tires and DH is a fabulous driver. We made it home around 7:30. The kiddos were happy to see us and of course weren't as eager to go to bed as we were. I'm just glad that we chose to make the trip without them - it would've been difficult to travel so far with so little time had they accompanied us.

I absolutely loved this race. The course was beautiful. Leaves were falling. The weather was perfect. The spectators were awesome. I would love to run it again. Perhaps with a few cushion days on either side of the race for site-seeing/relaxing with the family. My girlfriend mentioned on Friday that we should have planned a girls weekend away and gone on our own. Perhaps we can make something happen in 2008?

Circle the Bay ~ Race Report

A Beautiful Day! A Challenging Course!

We left Central Oregon at 8 p.m. on Thursday night. Certainly not typical for us but I wanted to get a good days rest on Friday and I knew the kids would sleep better on the way if we left at night rather than in the morning. Besides, they were eager to go, "Grandma & Papa miss me. I want to go tonight. I can't wait for tomorrow."

DH wasn't too pleased - I snoozed a little on the drive over - and he was tired himself. In retrospect, we should've waited. We didnt' arrive until nearly midnight! I apologized then and do so again here, publically, "I'm sorry, honey."

I had a difficult time getting to sleep on Friday night. I was actually a little nervous about the race. I had high hopes (wanting to finish in ~2:30) and was concerned about a few variables I hadn't quite anticipated (my nagging hip, a recent visit from Mother Nature that would prove to leave me drained, warmer temps than typical for the coast, and a hilly course).

We arrived at the start around 7:30 a.m., picked up my bib, and immediately hooked up with Bar and Kong. The kiddos stayed home with Grandma and Papa - they planned to pick apples and walk to the park. Fun for them - less stress for us. :)

Not only did I grow up here, but I taught for 6 years in the school district and DH was the pharmacy director before we moved to Central Oregon - so I saw many familiar faces in the small crowd. Several whom were former students (one of which went on to win!). I even bumped into my cousin (on my mom's side) and his family... their youngest was running the first leg of the relay option.

As families grow and circumstances force us to move away, it is sad that we often grow apart. I seldom see many of my cousins - if we are lucky we get together once a year at Christmas. Sometimes I catch myself wishing things could be as they were in the past - but even in the 1800s, many families that chose to emigrate on the Oregon Trail knew they wouldn't see the loved ones they left behind again.

The race was small - I'm guessing about 60 participants [I don't have an official count or results just yet - I'll post more as soon as I learn more]. The weather was beautiful - a little unexpected for a coast that is known for foggy, overcast mornings. After the start, runners proceeded through the park and under the bridge to the west side of highway 101 where they then proceeded south.

Kong and I ran together for a short time - we both had different expectations/goals - so we wished one another luck and then proceeded to run our own race. Shortly thereafter, I ran alongside another woman for the first 4-5 miles... she asked me almost immediately what my expected finish time was... when I told her, she said, "Oh. I guess I'll see you at the finish then." But she soon thereafter decided to stay with me... she said, "Since you are a local, I guess I'll try to stay with you so I don't go off course and get lost." We chuckled. For a while, she was even ahead of me - as I was watching my Garmin and trying to stay around an 8:15 pace. I lost her after we passed Fred Meyer and approached the first hill, Bunker Hill.

I saw my dad at 7-11 and got a big, encouraging hug. I was so happy that he came out to cheer me on. It certainly means a lot when friends & family support you. DH drove along the entire course, stopping periodically to take photos of Kong and I. Very cool!

He captured some great shots (and of course a few with horrid facial expressions - so I deleted those - no sense taking up space on the hard-drive). We just got a new camera (Canon Powershot S5 IS) so he played with the settings as well. The 'sports' setting allowed him to capture me 'in action' and so I've tried to put them together so I can analyze my running form.

At the 7 mile marker, I was running about 1 minute ahead of my plan. I hadn't reached the 'hilly' segment of the course yet so I was pleased with this. Just before the 9 mile marker, I started to get a little chaffing in my underarm area - new top! I should've known. I wanted to wear something a little flashy - DH had remarked during the Smith Rock 15K a few weeks back that he had a hard time finding me because I wore a white t-shirt like everyone else. So a few days ago, I treated myself. I wasn't able to find anyone with Vaseline or BodyGlide, but fortunately a bystander did volunteer her chapstick (I scraped off a bit off the top with my finger). Relief!

About 11-12 miles in and my back and hip started to really bother me. When this set of photos were taken, I asked DH if he had ibuprofen... he didn't but was able to get some from a friend who lived in the area... he met me a few miles down the road with water and drugs! :) I drank a little Poweraide at miles 3, 9, and 15... I consumed 3 Clif Shot blocks with a little water at miles 6 and 12. Just the boost I needed to stay strong, although my pace started to slip a little (typical for me - I always wane in the middle).

The hills come on in the last 4-5 miles. I was feeling very fatigued but hung on. A relay runner with a Eugene 1/2 marathon t-shirt passed me about this point and I really wanted to stay with her - I knew she was running on fresh legs but I decided I wanted to finish before her. I kept her within eyesight and finally caught her in Glasgow shortly after I saw my dad again (as I said, seeing friends/family along the course is a great ego-boost and motivator). :)

When I started across the McCullough Bridge, I could hear another runner breathing down my neck. I assumed it was the woman with the Eugene t-shirt, but the photos later revealed it was another woman. Her presence though, helped to assure that I finished strong. I had my usual strong kick left and pushed it to the end.

Unfortunately, I didn't achieve my time goal... I finished in 2:44:13 which put me in 3rd for my age division (average pace of 8:46). I don't yet know the overall results but I am very pleased with my efforts. It was a beautiful and challenging course. I will definately run this one again. As of yet, I haven't decided what will be my next big race. Stay tuned. :)

Rock Chuck Ramble ~ Race Report

We went into Redmond again today for another race - this time the Rock Chuck Ramble... a 327 yard fun run. When we approached the registration desk, the race organizer tried to convince us to sign-up the entire family. He was a great salesman and had we brought more cash along, we would have taken him up but as it was, we had only enough cash to register the princess and a few dollars left over to entertain the kiddos in the inflatable play structures in the interim.

After a brief warm-up to "The Hokey Pokey", the race was underway. Runners ran west for 2 blocks and then turned right. They continued for another block and then turned right again. They finished close to the start line essentially making a small loop around 2 blocks in downtown Redmond.

We don't generally stick around for the after race party and prize drawing... DH always wants to 'get it over with' and prefers to head on to other activities. Since this race was so short, I guess he didn't mind so much.

I don't recall ever winning anything in a drawing before... I even commented to DH as everyone was gathering under a tent that it wouldn't be likely that we'd win. There were well over 100 participants... with just one entry, our chances were slim. DS was beginning to get a little squirrely and hard to manage when they got down to the last couple of prizes. He started to run off just as the grand prize number was being read... "Seventy...." a brief pause and my hears perked up as I was running the little guy down. "...three!" OH MY GOSH!! She won $504!

I couldn't believe it! Proof that sticking around for the after party and prize drawing is well worth your time...even with little ones pulling all the leaves off the maple tree and kicking divets in the bark mulch. :)

We asked if she wanted to put the money away to save for college and she said, "Yes." That a girl! :)

As we were driving home she asked if we had ever won before and we said that we hadn't. She said, "You need to drink more Gatorade. It makes you go fast. I am fast. Gatorade helps you go fast like me."

Smith Rock 15K Sunrise Summer Classic ~ Race Report

Early to bed, early to rise, makes a (wo)man healthy, wealthy and wise. Something to that effect anyway.

DH and I got up at about 4:45 a.m. ~ I somehow got it into my head that the 15K started at 6:00 a.m. so we were en route just before 5:30. About 15 mintues outside Redmond, as I re-read the race brochure, I discover that the race doesn't start until 7:00. We therefore elected to turn back home... 1) I had forgotten my camera and had hoped DH could take some photos and 2) We decided to grab my wallet to get my FM rewards card and thereby stop for gas.

DH kept giving me a hard time about 'getting it together' and actually reading the brochure ahead of time... I told him that I could have been better prepared had I not had to get 3 people ready... the conversation proceeded a little and was actually quite humorous, but unfortunately, most of it was an inside joke and would be rather lengthy to try to explain here. Anyway...

We arrived at the start with about 15 minutes to spare... just enough time for me to make a quick stop at the restroom. Shortly thereafter, I lined up at the start and within a few minutes we were off. It was a small field and for a mile or so, I could actually see the leaders ahead of me.
I was very happy to have a Garmin - it certainly helped to keep me on pace and not go out too fast. At the first mile marker, my split was 7:44. Too fast to start so I slowed up. At each aide station, I stopped long enough to take 2-3 sips of water or PowerAide (I alternated) and then I resumed pace. I tried hard to maintain a consistent, even effort. I figured that I could slow up a little if necessary but I really wanted to stay at an 8:00 mile pace (give or take a few seconds). My plan was to pick it up for the final mile.3 if I had anything left.

Here are the remaining splits:

Mile 2 - 8:06
Mile 3 - 8:20
Mile 4 - 8:29
Mile 5 - 8:15
Mile 6 - 8:12
Mile 7 - 8:14
Mile 8 - 8:01
Mile 9 - 7:44
.3 - 2:48

Totals: 9.36 miles / 1:15:56 / 8:06 per mile

I am very pleased with my performance. Going in, I had hoped to finish in about 1:19 if all went well. In my dreams, I hoped for 1:12. Splitting the difference feels great!

At about mile 5-6, I leaped frogged a guy in black T and shorts a couple of times. When he passed me the last time, I tried hard to not let him extend the distance between us and kept him within 1-2 tenths of a mile. Then at mile 7 or so, another guy passed me... as he did so, he turned to acknowledge me and said, "Good job." Although there had been a handful of others who'd passed me since the start, I made up my mind that I wasn't going to let these two beat me. I don't know why. As the mile 8 marker came and went, I began to question whether that would happen. My mantra became, "Run your race. Don't get caught up in this." I started to feel a little fatigued but somehow managed to hold on.

I glanced at my Garmin as I was passing the guy in black T and shorts, completed distance 8.76 or so (I don't recall exactly). Could I kick it in? I generally have a pretty strong kick. I caught up with the other guy I had my sights on earlier but as I did so, he turned to see me and decided to pick it up himself. We ran neck and neck for about 3-4 tenths of a mile. I was beginning to get a little worried. My kick wasn't as strong as it has been in past races. This was both good (as I knew I left it all on the course) and bad (I didn't know if I was going to be able to hold the guy off). But just as I felt like I was all out of steam, he let up! He started to slow and this gave me a little something extra. I was able to hold on! I crossed the finish line in 1:15 !! Four minutes faster than I had predicted and hoped for earlier. Sweet success. :)

Originally, I hadn't expected to see DH and the kiddos at the finish (there were shuttles to bring us back into Redmond from Smith Rock State Park). I believe, however, that they arrived at the finish at the same time as I did because just as he was parking, DH said he saw me walking back with a water cup and talking with one of the volunteers. I took just a few more steps when I happened to glance at the license plate of an XC-90 and recognized it as our own. They had taken the time to get breakfast beforehand - and therefore they didn't get any photos at the finish. There were a few photographers along the course.... I can hope. :)

As usual, we didn't attend the post-race party so I don't yet know my standings. It will likely be in the paper tomorrow so I'll let ya'll know when I do.

Run long and strong. :)