Tuesday's on the Run: My thoughts on Racing post marathon

Happy Tuesday and more importantly--Happy Tuesday's on the Run! It's been a hot minute since I've talked about running on my "running" blog so I figured there's no better day than today to jump back into it.

Linking up!

In case you didn't know, I ran my first marathon back in November (and it was awesome!). I had a pretty decent race and even hit my B goal of getting under 4 hours. Crossing the finish line was a moment I'll never forget and definitely ranks up there with getting married, engaged, and buying a house.

So, with it being such a momentous time in my life, why am I finding it so hard to commit to any races in 2016?

The thought of racing at the moment just.... doesn't sit well with me. I love racing and it ranks up there as one of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday or Sunday morning. But right now? I can't even bring myself to LOOK at any upcoming races. I've lost some of that racing MOJO and I need to find it.

That being said..... I'm in no hurry.

There are a variety of reasons I contribute to my current mindset--

1. I raced a LOT last year. I ran an insane amount of 5k's, a few 10k's, and snuck in 3 half marathons along with my full. I put a lot on my plate and ate every single bit of it. I had a ton of fun and don't regret any of those races but man... looking back, I should have been smarter about planning.

2. I put a TON of pressure on myself to perform at the highest level possible. I won a lot of races last year--either overall female or my age category. When you start winning, people expect you to win every single time. And that turns into a LOT of pressure, a lot of nerves, and a lot of self doubt when you don't perform at your best. I remember one day in particular last year--I had 20 miles on my training plan and ran a half marathon that morning (1:42), 4 miles after, and then laced up for a 5k that night at 8pm. I won overall female but finished in a little over 22 minutes. And I was UPSET. HELLO! Do you understand how crazy that is to be upset?? Looking back on it, I do now! Ridiculous. The fact that I was still in good enough form to RUN a 22 minute 5k should have been good enough.

3. Post marathon blues. Running your first marathon is a funny thing. You work your ass off for 5-6 months for a race that lasts 4 hours. I put my blood, sweat, and LOTS of tears into that race. And let's be honest... waking up on a Saturday morning knowing you have to log 18 miles isn't exactly the most fun way to spend your weekend. (Those of you who do this often, I commend you!) The next day after I crossed the finish line, it kind hit me--running a marathon was that end-all item on my running bucket list and it was officially completed. The feeling of "What now?" hit almost immediately.

So, here I am at the end of February, with racing season getting ready to kick into high gear, and I'm sitting here twiddling my thumbs. I'm still running--in fact, I log miles almost every day. I could probably go out and wing a half marathon tomorrow and have no issues. But... I'm not. At least not yet.

I've learned a lot from running. I've learned to be patient, to follow through on something from start to finish, to believe in myself, and I've learned that my body is capable of some impressive shit. But I've also learned that I can't force myself to do something when my heart isn't fully there yet.

Am I worried that I'll never rekindle my relationship with racing? No. I'll get there. I'm a competitive person and you can't keep me down for too long. I'm signed up for a few OCR's and am very stoked about those. But when the time is right, I'll know. It could be next week, it could be next month, heck... it could be next year.. but I'll get there.


Sarah

TOTR: Running Survey!

Before I get into my Tuesday's on the Run post, can we talk about the fact that I'm wearing shorts around on December 22nd? This weather is insane and coupled with the craziness that is moving/renovating TWO bathrooms in our new house... well, I'm in serious need of some Christmas spirit people! 

Anyway, I've already done my 2015 running highlights so I figured I'd pop in for TOTR with a fun survey I've seen floating around lately.

Linking up for Tuesday's on the Run!

1.  Would you rather run along a beach path or on a mountain trail?

As long as the beach path isn't directly ON the beach, that's my pick. ha. I love running AT the beach, just not on it. This sounds totally stupid and I feel like I SHOULD love it but.. I get bored. ha. My favorite place in the world to run is on Hilton Head island though! We go there every year for the Fourth of July and I've found this SWEET running path that takes me directly to the beach. So, I run 3 miles there, take a breather while watching the waves, and then head back. It's PERFECT.

2.  If you could choose the flavor of gatorade at your next race’s aid stations, what would it be?

Lemon Lime all day, every day. 

3.  If I gave you a $100 gift card to a running store, what would be the first thing that you would purchase with it?

Shoes, duh! I've only mentioned it about 10 million times but I'm dying for the new Saucony Triumphs! BEST SHOE EVER!

4.  Do you prefer to follow a training plan or wake up and decide then how far and how fast you want to run?

Wake up and run. I'm not a fan of training plans. I know some people need them for structure (which is awesome) but for me, I felt "trapped". Toward the end of my marathon training, it took some of the joy out of it. I love just letting my body dictate my run and going with the flow. 

 

5.  Would you rather start your run with the uphill and end on the downhill or start your run with the downhill and end with the uphill?

Start on the uphill. My motto is to get the hardest part of anything done first. 

6.  When you can’t run, what type of cross-training do you choose to do?

Any and every kind. ha. Insanity / HIIT workouts are my favorite though! In 2016, I plan on incorporating a lot more weight training to my schedule as well.

7.  What is your preference—>  Out and back, point to point or loop runs?

Depends on the day and my mood. 

8.  If you could recommend ANY running related item to a new runner, it would be a—>

A good pair of running shoes, no doubt. The "add-ons" are great but if you have a good pair of running shoes, you can conquer the world. ;)

9.  Do you ever see any wild animals while out on your runs?

Just a few dogs here and there. 

10.  Ever gotten lost while out on a run?

Hmmm....... I don't think so?

11.  If you could have one meal waiting and ready for you each time you got home from a run for the next 30 days… what would that meal be?

If calories don't count.... I'm going with a brownie sundae with lots of whip cream. Sweets are the way to my heart!

12.  Capris or shorts… what do you run in most often?

SHORTS! I hate running in tights or capris. I'll rock tights/capris if it's under 40 and raining/snowing but other than that, I wear shorts about 99.9% of the time.

13.  At what mile (or how many minutes) into your run does your body start to feel like it is warming up and ready to go?

Usually about a mile in I start getting in the groove.

14.  What do you do with your key when you run?

I'll hold on to it or if I'm carrying my water bottle, tuck it in the zipper part. 

15.  If you could relive any race that you have done in the past, which one what it be?

I've said it before and I'll say it again... the Kentucky Derby Half. The race of my LIFE.

16.  What type of run is your least favorite type of run?

To be honest, I don't think I have a least favorite. I enjoy different aspects of them all. 

17.  What has been your biggest motivation lately to get out the door to get your run on?

To be honest, I just love to MOVE and I love the feeling you get after a long, hard run. There's nothing better. Not only that, I'm trying to fit in as many miles I can before the end of 2015!

18.  When you go for a run, do you leave right from your front door or do you drive somewhere to start?

To be completely honest, most of my runs lately have been on the treadmill in the morning before work. It's just easier. ha. 

19.  When running in daylight—>  are sunglasses a must or an annoyance?

Sunglasses. ALWAYS.

20.  When you get tired, what keeps you from quitting?

I just legitimately love running. There are days when it's the absolute last thing I want to do but I've never, EVER regretted a run. Why quit something that brings so much joy? There will be a day when I can no longer lace up my shoes and hit the pavement but that day isn't today, and hopefully not anytime soon, so until then, I'm going to run my heart out.

Have a great day! And go for a run!

Sarah

TOTR: Gifts for Runners

Happy Tuesday! Good news--my energy/legs are finally back from my marathon! I've put in some major speed work and operation lose my 10 pound (ugh!) marathon weight gain is officially in session. I'm going to post more on that tomorrow!

In the meantime, today's Tuesday's on the Run topic is close to my heart--Gifts for Runners. ;)

These are just a FEW of the items on my list.. ;)

1. Saucony Life on the Run Triumph ISO 2. 

I'd be happy with just getting these shoes for Christmas. I made the switch over to the Trimph's last Christmas and couldn't be happier. They finally updated the shoe and omg--I need them in my life!

2. These Pro Compression socks. 

I never got the whole compression sock thing until about a year ago. And these totally saved my life during my marathon. I think they were one of the reasons I was able to jump back in so quickly after my race. And plus, this version is pretty badass.

3. Runner's World Meals on the Run cookbook.

My schedule is CRAZY and about to get crazier starting next semester. I rarely EVER have time to cook a meal for Peter and I during the week but 30 minutes? I could totally commit to that! One of my many 2016 goals is to clean up my diet and this would be a perfect addition to my cookbook collection. :)

4. A Spartan Race season pass

Okay, totally a DREAM gift but a Spartan Season pass would DEFINITELY be at the top of my list. I'm kind of obsessed with Spartan and plan on getting my Trifecta in 2016!

5. RRCA Running Coach Certification!

I really, REALLY want to become a certified running coach in 2016 so this would be a great gift. ;) I have big, BIG plans.

There you have it--a few gift ideas for your favorite runner out there...... or, me. ha.

Have a great Tuesday!

Sarah

TOTR: I'M A MARATHONER!

Wow. I honestly have absolutely NO idea where to start on this one. Saturday was... amazing. Everything I had imagined and MORE.

Linking up for Tuesday's on the Run.

I know most recaps go mile by mile but there's no way that would even begin to do this race justice. Everyone told me that the first marathon would be "special" but I had no idea what they meant until I crossed the finish line.

Saturday was the most emotionally/physically draining thing I've ever done.

Flat Sarah 😏 guess tomorrow is really happening?! I can do this... I think. 🙏 #run #runner #runchat #running #runrichmond #richmondready #flatrunner #instarunners #igrunners #instarunners

A photo posted by Sarah Smith Carlson (@sarahc33) on Nov 13, 2015 at 7:40pm PST

The morning started out a little hectic. I slept surprisingly well but for some reason I thought I'd have more time than I did before the race and kind of took my time. I made it to the start line with plenty of time to spare but the porta potties? Not so much. I stressed out a bit about not getting a chance to take advantage of them but it turned out to be okay in the end.

The weather on Saturday was seriously perfect. It was a little chilly at the start (around 40 degrees) but I decided to go ahead and drop my throwaway sweat shirt before the race started so I wouldn't have to worry about doing it later. The sun was out and I had gloves on so I knew I'd be okay.

In the words of my favorite.. "Here I go it's my shot, feet fail me not, this may be the only opportunity that I got".. #runrichmond #marathon

A photo posted by Sarah Smith Carlson (@sarahc33) on Nov 14, 2015 at 4:28am PST

I made the decision to start off with the 3:35 pace group and just see how long I could hold on. I thought MAYBE if I got lucky I'd be able to hang with them but unfortunately that wasn't the case. Oh well. The first marathon is all about learning, right?

The first 13-14 miles absolutely flew by. I guess maybe it was the adrenaline rush and the excitement that I was FINALLY running a marathon but I had no major problems. I've been dealing with a bout of achilles tendonitis recently so it took a while to get fully warmed up but once I got there, I was fine. I stayed with 3:35 pace group up until mile 17 or so and that's when the wheels started coming off a bit.

I totally hit the wall between miles 17-20. No question about it. My body was okay but mentally, I wasn't doing so hot. Going into the marathon, I KNEW from day 1 this would be my biggest challenge. Instead of taking it one mile at a time, I started thinking about how many I had left and it was tough to take in.

Luckily for me, my family was waiting for me at mile 19. And good thing too because it was right before a pretty decent size hill. I knew if I stopped, I'd have a hard time getting going again but just seeing them helped more than I can explain. Peter handed off my final two gels and I was totally bawling my eyes out because I was so emotional but I don't think he noticed since my sunglasses were on. ;)

I slugged it out through mile 20 and then, the realization hit that although I wasn't going to hit 3:35, I could still get a sub-4 hour marathon on my first try. And that was the motivation I needed to get my butt in gear again.

From 20-26, I took it one mile at a time. I ran as much as I could but admittedly took a few much needed breaks. I'd run half a mile, walk for about 1 minute (or the length of 2 cones, ha) and then pick it up again until I hit the next water stop. Luckily, Richmond had water stops every mile from 20-26.

Miles 23 & 24 were my slowest miles of the day, 10:12 & 10:06. Not terribly happy with those but I got through them and that's what counts.

And then I hit mile 25. This was by far my favorite mile of the day. I was in pain, I was tired, the thought of shotblocks and gels made me absolutely sick to my stomach but oh my gosh--I smiled the ENTIRE time. The crowds started picking up again, my adrenaline was pumping, and tears were already starting to flow. I couldn't stop thinking about how I was about to finish something that I said I would NEVER do 3 years ago.

I ran mile 25 in 9:12--a far cry from my normal pace but the fastest mile I'd had since about mile 17. And then we hit the magical number 26 and it was literally all down hill from there. It was one of the greatest moments of my life. I sprinted down the hill--there was no stopping. I caught a glimpse of my family cheering me on and it was everything I'd hoped for and more. I crossed the finish line in 3:50:22 and just like that, I was a marathoner.

I've come a LONG way since I first started running. Hit my B goal on my first (maybe only.. Lol) full marathon and couldn't be happier. I love this sport and it teaches me every day that anything is possible. #richmondready #runrichmond #runchat #runner #run #marathon #marathoner #runhappy #runnerscommunity #igfit #igrun #igfitness #igrunners #instafit #instarun #instafitness #likeagirl #bemorehuman #unstoppable #fitfluential #fitfam

A photo posted by Sarah Smith Carlson (@sarahc33) on Nov 15, 2015 at 4:10am PST

I got my medal, blanket, and hat and SLOWLY started making my way to the finisher area. I heard someone shouting my name and looked up to see my best friend Anna sprinting toward me. As soon as she got to me, the happy tears just started flowing again. I couldn't' hold it in and didn't want to. That was one of the most surreal and proudest moments of my life.

So grateful for our friendship. She was the first person who found me at the finish line and had to listen to all of my happy tears. 😁 @phisigsister #marathoner #firstmarathon #run #runner #runchat #runrichmond #richmondready

A photo posted by Sarah Smith Carlson (@sarahc33) on Nov 14, 2015 at 11:56am PST

I ran a marathon, I hit my B goal (sub 4 hours), and I got to celebrate with my family. It was one of those days I'll never forget.

And for those of you wondering how I felt afterwards, I was pretty tired and a little stiff but after some food (pizza and potato wedges! ha), a shower, and a nap, I felt pretty good all things considered. I took it fairly easy on Sunday and yesterday but today, I decided to test out my legs and went for a 5 mile shakeout run. So, I'd say my training was pretty successful. ;)

So there you have it. I'm now a marathoner. It's weird FINALLY knocking it off my bucket list because it's been there for so long and I feel like I've been working toward it since I started running 10 years ago! I guess that just means it's time to find a new goal, right? ;)

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Sarah

TOTR: Crunch Time

So...... that awkward moment when you're watching a movie trailer on TV while on the treadmill and you immediately freak out because it comes out on November 13 which just so happens to be the day before your marathon.... yep, that happened this morning.

Ha. 

Linking up for Tuesday's on the Run!

I know I talk about my marathon a LOT but with it just around the corner, it's basically the only thing on my mind these days. 

I've got my last long run coming up this weekend and I'm hoping it will be a big confidence booster. I'm kind of terrified of the race at this point (been reading too many horror stories!) but if something scares you, it's GOT to be good for you, you know?

I literally have no clue what's going to happen on race day. I could bomb out at mile 18 or feel great the entire day (wishful thinking) but I just want to finish. That's it. That's my #1 goal at this point and anything else is an added bonus. 

My thoughts on marathon training up until this point? Ehh. I love running--it's probably my biggest passion--but I like the freedom of running when I want, how I want, and how long I want. And that's not to say I haven't taken some "creative" liberties while training but I won't know until after I cross the finish line whether I'll do another marathon or not. Okay, maybe SEVERAL days after crossing the finish line. 

But all of that being said, there have been countless moments during the last few months where it's really hit me just how AWESOME it is what I'm doing. I'm pushing my body to run 26.2 miles... for fun! Not many people have the guts to take that on and I know it. So who cares if it takes me 5-6 hours to cross the finish line? I got out there didn't I? 

And there are so many people out there who have believed in me during this training when I haven't. My husband, my family, my friends, my exercise clients. When training has gotten hard and I've lost confidence, they've been there to pick me back up and get me on track. I'm so very grateful to each and every person who has helped me along this (hard) journey.

So, here's to my last few weeks of marathon training. No matter what happens, I'm proud of myself and the effort I've put in. It's not been easy by any means but it's been worth it. And WILL be worth it on November 14th.

Sarah

TOTR: Fall Racing

Happy Tuesday! We're one day closer to the weekend, one day closer to students coming back... one day closer to my MARATHON!

Linking up today for Tuesday's on the Run!

So, last November, on a whim and a KILLER deal, I decided it was time I signed up for my first full marathon. Let's go back about 5 years when I said I would never, EVER run 26.2 miles for fun. Funny how things change.

Anyway, it's now the second week in August, my marathon is LESS THAN 100 DAYS AWAY, and it's about time I got my butt in gear for training.

I've been putting it off for a several weeks now--a combination of being "lazy" (aka, not wanting to do structured runs), not finding a training plan I particularly liked, and letting loose for a few weeks--something I desperately needed for my sanity.

Well, last week I finally decided it was "time". I've done some research and found a plan that works for me, that I'm comfortable with and still has me running 6 days a week. I'm a creature of habit and enjoy my early morning runs before work and wanted a plan that would still allow for those--albeit structured a bit differently. It's challenging, it's scary, but most of all, I feel confident with this plan that when November rolls around, I will be ready for whatever Richmond throws my way.

On the docket this week--
Monday: 50 minute "easy" run. I pushed it a little longer so that I could hit the 8 mile mark
Tuesday: Speed workout (2 minutes full out sprint, 4 minutes recovery, 7 x's)
Wednesday: 45 minute  run
Thursday: 50 minutes
Friday: 40 minutes
Saturday: 14 miles

I like that there's no mileage attached to the work week runs. It's the first plan I've seen do this and I can appreciate it because a lot of my morning runs are done on the treadmill. I push myself a little harder on these because I want to get as much mileage in as possible during that time frame.

I'm a little nervous about my 14 miler this weekend but I'm hoping I can recruit a buddy to run at LEAST a few miles with me.

So obviously, my marathon is the biggest item on my fall calendar but here are a few other races that I'm either a) doing b) signing up for or c) considering. I'm a very go-with-the-flow kind of person and tend to sign up for races on a whim (like my marathon) so this is ALWAYS subject to change.

Saturday, August 14th: Guest River Gorge 5k

Saturday, August 22nd: Virginia Super Spartan @ Wintergreen

Saturday, August 29th: Bluegrass Half Marathon

Saturday, September 12th: Eastman 10K Road Race in the AM, Glow Run in the PM

Saturday, October 3rd: Highknob Hellbender 10K

Saturday, October 10th: Fall Fling 5k

Saturday, October 31st: Haunted Half Marathon

Saturday, November 14th: RICHMOND MARATHON!!! 

Lots of good ones in there! I'm looking forward to a fun and exciting season. Summer races are my favorite but I can't knock a good fall, cool weather run.

What races are on your calendar this fall?!

Sarah

TOTR: Railroad Days 5k

Happy Tuesday! STILL without my Macbook--seriously Apple?! I dropped it off over 2 weeks ago for an "easy" fix. Go figure, right?

Anyway, now that my morning Power Hour classes are over for the summer, I can HOPEFULLY start getting back into a regular posting schedule. Who knew I'd miss blogging?

ANNNND because it's Tuesday, it means it's time for another edition of Tuesday's on the Run!

Today's a free topic so I'm going to talk about the race I did this past Saturday.

Saturday was one of my favorite races of the year--it's a local race and draws a pretty big crowd. It's been going on for 30+ years so people from all over come and check it out. And actually, a guy who is in his late 60's and consistently wins national track championships (AND STILL HITS 17 MINUTES ON HIS 5K!) always shows up so it's fun to watch. Basically, he's my life goal.

Anyway, I couldn't have asked for better weather for the race. Mid 60's and sunny.. just how I like it! It was an early start--8am--but I can appreciate that. That being said, I didn't pre-register and was totally running behind so I basically had to sprint back to my car after signing up and switch shoes/put on my bib/get ready. I counted that as my warm-up. ;) I hate being late for anything, especially a race, but I think that helped calm my nerves a bit.

Before the start of the race, there was a quick prayer and then we proceeded to do the Pledge of Allegiance--something I haven't done since grade school! I'm happy to report however that I still knew all of the words. Just for the record. ;)

Right at 8:15am, the gun went off and it was go time. I knew there was a girl in the field faster than me so my goal was to keep her in sight. She hadn't run a local race in a while so I wasn't sure how my time compared to her now but I figured if I kept her in range, I was doing pretty good.

Going into the first mile, I felt great. I was well rested, felt light on my feet, and knew I had a chance at doing pretty well. The girl in question and I stayed together the entire first mile. Our first split was 6:40 which is pretty quick but I didn't feel like I was struggling or anything so I kept at it.

The second mile is a big out and back and always feels like the longest part of the race. ALWAYS. Every year I dread it. Again, the girl in question and I were side by side the entire way. We were passing boys left and right and at one point, we started joking around wondering how the boys felt about being passed by not one girl but two. ;)

The mile 2 split came back somewhere in the 13 minute range so we were still crushing it pretty hard.

Mile 3 is when things started going downhill for me. Well, I didn't bonk out or anything but I definitely couldn't keep the same blistering pace we had been. I slowed down considerably. I went from running 6:53 on mile 2 to 7:05 on mile 3. Not BAD but not a sub 7.

The girl ended up getting about 15 seconds ahead of me but I kept my goal of keeping her in sight. I came across the line in 21:19--second overall female and a huge improvement over my time of 21:53 last year for the same race. I'm not sure what's gotten into me over the last month but I've had some killer 5k times. I've gotten closer and closer to that 21 minute mark. I'm not sure if I'll ever break it but heck, I didn't think I'd ever get sub 22 either.

So, no overall win but anytime you have a ridiculously good race, it makes up for it. :) I've been digging longer distance recently but I always appreciate a good 5k. Sprinting for 3+ miles always kind of puts you in your place, you know? By the time I crossed the finish line, I was SPENT.

I potentially have another race this Saturday but I haven't decided if I want to drop $30 for a 5k--seems little steep!

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Sarah

TOTR: Running Survey

Happy Tuesday! It's a super dreary one here and not expected to get any better as the day goes on. Totally one of those mornings where I wish I could have stayed in bed just a LITTLE bit longer. But once I got my butt in gear and out the door, I was glad I didn't press snooze a few billion times this morning and made it through my run.

Which is a perfect segue to Tuesday's on the Run. See what I did there? ha.

Brie from Lean, Clean, & Brie posted this survey yesterday and I loved it! So of course I HAD to steal it. :)

Would you rather run along a beach path or a mountain trail?
Beach. No doubt! I love running at the beach--everything is much more laid back, relaxed.. I don't feel any pressure to be fast. I run because it's what I love to do!

If you could choose the flavor of Gatorade at your next race's aid states, what would it be?
Lemon Lime. No doubt! Although it would be really awesome if they served Spark at aid stations.....

If I have you a $100 gift card to a running store, what would be the first thing that you would purchase with it?
I would DEFINITELY put it toward a new pair of shoes!

Do you prefer to follow a training plan or wake up and decide then how far and how fast you want to run?
I'm not a big training plan kind of girl.. which I guess is a little weird considering how many races I run. I've never actually formally trained for any race that I've ever done. Granted my marathon in November will be a little different but in the past? I guess I've just gotten lucky that what I've been doing works. ha.

Would you rather start your run with the uphill and end on the downhill or start your run with the downhill and end with the uphill?
Start on the uphill! I've always been one to tackle the hardest thing first so it would be no different here. And to be honest, I kind of, sort of enjoy hills. I guess that's what living in the mountains will do to ya.

When you can't run, what type of cross-training do you choose to do?
Any and everything! I'm a fitness nerd/junkie so I love trying new things. I do a LOT of Insanity, lift weights, walk, bike... whatever I'm in the mood for that day.

What is your preference: out and back, point to point, or loop runs?
I'm not a fan of out and back races... at all. I feel like they go on FOREVER! As far as point to point and loop runs go, I'm really okay with either.

If you could recommend ANY running related item to a new runner, it would be a...
Definitely a good pair of running shoes. I think most new runners go out in whatever pair of shoes they have laying around and don't realize how important a good pair really is! Are they expensive? Yes. But are they worth it? No doubt. And go to a running specialty store and get your gait analyzed! The right pair makes all the difference.

Do you ever see any wild animals while out on your runs?
Other than dogs? No. And let's hope it stays that way. :)

Ever gotten lost while out on a run?
I thought I got lost one time during a race in Asheville. We were going up this gigantic hill/mountain and the course wasn't properly marked, there weren't that many runners, and I had gone an exceptionally long time without seeing anyone. But other than that, I don't really remember getting lost on a run before.

If you could have one meal waiting and ready for you each time you got home from a run for the next 30 days... what would that meal be?
Umm, how about a hot fudge sundae?! With extra whip topping?! And a warm brownie?!

Capris or shorts... what do you run in most often?
SHORTS!! I'll run in capris/tights when it's really, REALLY cold but I definitely prefer shorts!

At what mile (or how many minutes) into your run does your body start to feel like it is warming up and ready to go?
Typically about a mile or so into a run, I feel like I start loosening up and start zoning out.

What do you do with your key when you run?
I try and hand them off to someone else or hide it. ha.

If you could relive any race that you have done in the past, which one?
The Kentucky Derby Half I did in April. It was by far the best run of my life. I don't know if I've ever felt as good about a run as I did that one (although last Saturday in Hilton Head was close). I felt like everything I had was firing on all cylinders and even after crossing the line, I felt like I could have done another 13.1... my body just felt GOOD.

What type of run is your least favorite type of run?
Night runs. Does that count? ha. I don't' really have a least favorite type of run but I really, REALLY dislike night races/runs. I'm such a morning person now that the thought of running after work or night makes me cringe. ha. Which is funny because when I first started running 10 years ago, I'd go after dinner. Yikes.

What has been your biggest motivation lately to get out the door to get your run on?
I love seeing what my body can do! I spent the first half of my life not doing ANYTHING so now it's fun for me to test my limits. And plus, I really, REALLY love dessert. ;)

When you go for a run, do you leave right from your front door or do you drive somewhere to start?
Depends. Sometimes I'll go out my front door, other times I'll drive. During the week, I go in before work and hop on a treadmill.

When running in daylight: are sunglasses a must or an annoyance?
MUST! Even if it's not super bright outside, I wear my sunglasses.

When you get tired, what keeps you from quitting?
I'm not a quitter. That's what keeps me from stopping. I don't give up on my dreams!



Have a great Tuesday everyone!

Sarah

TOTR: 10k, drone, & goal update

I have a LOT to get to on this Tuesday morning so let's get right into it.

Linking up for my favorite day of the week--Tuesday's on the Run!

On Saturday, I ran in the Guest River Gorge 10k--a tough "trail"-esque out and back race. It's by FAR one of the most mentally challenging races I do all year. The first 3 miles is a gradual downhill slope and then, well, you turn around and have to come right back up. And it's absolutely terrible. ha. Am I the only one who would rather run a super steep hill and just knock it out rather than slowly climbing? Please tell me I'm not. 

Anyway, the race itself went much, MUCH better than I expected. The weather wasn't ideal but it didn't start really raining until after the race so at least I didn't get completely soaked. Unlike most of my races lately, I woke up on Saturday morning and felt AWESOME. I cut my mileage back toward the end of last week and that made a huge difference. 

It was a decently large race--about 125 runners from ALL over. I was nervous before hand but being a 10k, I didn't really put a lot pressure on myself because it's definitely NOT my specialty. I'm still fairly new to the distance running game and although I've got some good times, I'm still working on it. 

Anyway, the race started right at 9am and from the moment the gun went off, I made it my mission to not let a single female pass me. I was pumped, everything I had felt awesome, and mentally, I was ready for the challenge. I really tried pacing myself the first 3 miles in order to have something left for the end--I actually ended up running with the same guy that helped me finish last year. We joked before the start of the race that we were pushing each other to finish last year because neither one of us wanted to let the other pass. ha. 

I use the term trail race VERY loosely because basically it's a straight shot down a small incline along the side of a creek--meaning, everything looks EXACLTY. THE. SAME. Which is why this race was such a challenge. Even with a GPS, I had a hard time figuring out exactly how far I had left to go once making the turn around. This year, I made mental notes at a few specific landmarks and that made all difference. It gave me the mental edge that I needed. 

There was a girl a little too close for my comfort throughout a majority of the race which helped keep me on my toes. She made me nervous but I appreciated the fact that she pushed me to race harder. I slowly started pulling away from her around mile 4.5 and I think I ended up finishing about 30 seconds faster than she did. I actually ended up racing with a pack of about 3-4 guys for most of the last 3 miles and we were all pushing each other at the end. One guy in particular--I had never met him before--REALLY helped me the last half a mile. He could tell I was starting to fizzle out a bit and encouraging me and telling me to sprint it out and beat him. Have I mentioned how AWESOME fellow runners are?! 

Not the most flattering shot.. ha.

ANYWAY, long story short. I finished in 46:00 flat, 7:25/mile, and I was the first female across the line. Technically, this would be my PR but I REALLY want to run a 10k on a flat surface so I can see what I can REALLY do. Every one I've done so far has been incredibly hilly. ha. One day, right? 

And I have to say, this race wins the award for coolest prize for the top finishers--I won an f'n DRONE. It's tiny and you can't even put a camera on it but ether way, it's pretty freakin' awesome. I also won a free milkshake, $25 to a local BBQ joint, and a free rental at one of our local water tubing businesses. Not bad for a day's work, right?! 

Overall, it was a great race and it's slowly becoming one of my favorites. It's well organized, the course HARD but beautiful, and it's just a great atmosphere. 

I also lucked out with one of the COOLEST race pictures to date. I'm totally framing this. It makes me feel like a total badass. 

beating the boys. ;)

And before I go, a quick goal update. 

I decided at the beginning of the year, I running 2,015 miles in 2015. As of today, I've logged 1, 269. So, 6 months in, I'm a little ahead of schedule, which makes me feel good. ha. 

I've also been participating in the Runner's World Run Streak and am still holding strong there too. Only a few days left! I may keep it going for a while... we'll see. 

Anyway, there you have it. A super long update about all things running. Guess it's a good thing this is technically a running blog, right?

I hope you all have a WONDERFUL Tuesday. I have one more day of work left and then I'm on vacation for a WEEK!! :)

Sarah 

TOTR: Hot Weather & Running

Linking up again today for Tuesday's on the Run!

I love Tuesday's on the Run and I especially love today's topic: hot weather running. I obviously run all year long but summer runs are when I really fall in love with the sport all over again. There's just something about getting up super early on a Saturday, logging a few miles, and being absolutely drenched in sweat when I finish that I love. Maybe it's because back when I first started running, it was during the summer? I know it's not everyone's cup of tea but it certainly is mine.

When looking at marathons, the conditions I would ultimately be training in was a MAJOR deciding factor on a spring or fall race. I'll be honest--I know there are a lot of super heroes out there who can run in freezing cold temperatures but... I'm not one of them. More power to those of you who are though! Once it drops below freezing, I'm inside on a treadmill. No shame in my game.

Yeah. No thanks. 

I chose the Richmond marathon for various reasons but the biggest was definitely the fact that a majority of my training would be done during the summer. Whereas I know mileage wise I could have been ready for a spring race, I wanted to enjoy the process of training for my first marathon--not dread it. After looking back at the winter we had, I'm so overly happy with my decision it's not even funny.

That being said, like anything, it's important to stay safe when running during the summer months, ESPECIALLY when running longer distances. Here are a few tips that I follow--

1. Go early or go late--try to avoid the hottest part of the day! I prefer early morning runs during the summer, mainly because if I were to wait until 6-7pm, I'm not nearly as motivated. Unless it's for a race, I try to avoid running from about 10am-5pm as much as possible!

2. STAY HYDRATED! Hydrate before, during, and after your run. This may seem like an obvious tip but it's still important to keep in mind.

3. Run with a partner. When the temperatures start rising, the harder it is to get out there. I like having a reliable running partner to keep me accountable and to get me out the door.

4. Let others know where you're running and about how long you think it will take. Just in case something were to happen--although this is a good tip no matter what time of year you're running.

5. Take a break if you need to! Don't try and be a super woman! If you feel like you're overheating, stop and take some time to recoup. When I'm in Hilton Head, no matter how early or late I go running, it's ALWAYS ridiculously hot and humid. That being said, I always have a built-in midway point where I stop and cool off for a few minutes. It just so happens that it's on the beach and there's a big ocean to help me refresh but still. :)

6. Take it inside if you need to! If you have access to a treadmill, use it!

I hope these tips help you in the coming months--especially for you other hot weather runners out there.

What's your favorite running weather?! 

Sarah