Hands Down: The best weekend in NYC.

It's official. Picked up my number, spent way too much at the Expo, got my dad a t-shirt: this means I have to finish. How else can I wear my new snazzy, sparkly 'I run this city 2008' T-shirt??

The official T-shirt is quite appropriate. The front reads:

"What does it take? HEART POUNDING DEDICATION"


The weather is supposed to be perfect (knock on wood): 51 and partly cloudy. As of now, I am wearing shorts and a long sleeve. Oh, and zebra stripe gloves until I warm up. I have throw-away sweats for the loooonnnnng wait in the corrals before the start.

I'm as ready as I can be. My biggest fear? I am going to cry through the entire thing. Not from pain (well, maybe from pain in the last miles), but from pure emotion.


The buzz in the city has started. All over, you see people carrying their expo bags with the excitement written on their face. Riding home on the subway from the expo last night I spent the entire ride talking with other runners who are either running this year or have run in the past. The number one piece of advice- don't get so caught up you don't enjoy the experience. DONE!

It's funny, marathon weekend, in my opinion, is always the best weekend in the city. Especially last year when we got to watch the Men's Olympic Trials the day before. However, actually running makes it all the more special and you see so much more.

This afternoon, I am skipping out of work early and going to see "Run for your Life" It is a movie about Fred Lebow, the 'father' of the NYC Marathon, and the creation of the marathon into what it is today. It is playing in special release in the city and was released on DVD as well for the expo. I will probably cry through this, as well.



I FINALLY had a good run on Wednesday, did the 2nd mile under 8 minutes (whoops). Legs feel almost 100%- this running-taper thing is CRAZY! Hip is still nagging a bit, but it is what it is.


And let's be honest- did you really think I wasn't going to wear my watch!? :)

Finding my confidence.

Even though the last two weeks of my training have not been optimal, and I have been having a rough time physically and mentally , I need to remind myself of this:

I have done everything I can since March to get to the start line healthy on Sunday.  I may not have the optimal weekly mileage, but I did what I could starting from ZERO.  I did 2x16, 2x18 and one 20 mile training runs.  I did some tempo, some marathon paced running and a few speed workouts.  I allowed myself rest and recovery when i needed it, and I didn't race too much.

The two sprint triathlons I did, my run was solid.  The one half marathon I did was only 3 minutes off my PR with minimal effort and a bathroom break.

And now, even if i don't feel 100% come Sunday, I need to be confident in this work.  

I wrote another whiny-woe-is-me post last night and deleted it.  No more negativity.

I have decided to run on Sunday.  I have put too much time and effort into this not to.  But I will be smart and listen to my body.  Aches and pains and mental weakness is one thing- pain is something different.

A few weeks ago I was ready to set some time goals and confident in my ability to achieve them.  The goal now is to have fun and enjoy the journey through a city I love.  Probably without a watch.    And hope for a little race-day magic.

Marine Corps Marathon 2008

I had a blast with my dad watching the race. It was his first marathon experience and it was fun to share my love of running with him, and explaining the ins-and-outs of the marathon (IE he couldn't understand why some people were already walking at mile 12, why the packs had thinned so much at mile 20, etc). I am a bit bummed my family can't join me next weekend, but my sister has the dreaded SAT on Saturday.

My dad has a minor addiction to photography, and these are some photos he snapped during the day. We cheered at mile 12, mile 15 then headed over to mile 20.

The wheelchair leader at mile 12.

The lead pack at mile 12. #1564 was the overall winner.

Supporting our troops! My friend said it was, um, a bit hard to focus at some points in the race :)

Cheering my friend on at Mile 12!!

The masses approaching Mile 20, leaving DC to head back to Virginia for the final 10k.

Full disclosure...

In the interest of full disclosure, there may be another reason my entire body, namely my hip, have been bothering me.

Last Thursday night I went out. 

And fell.  Off a stool.  A low stool, not a BAR stool, don't worry!!

Howevcer, a week later, this is the result:

It keeps getting darker.  And growing across my back and down my ass.

So after a panicky call to the Doc and a online conversation, I am giving it until Monday.  No running.  We will see how it feels then.  Dr. M promised he will do whatever he can to get me on the starting line next weekend.  The pain is NOT the same as before, and the 'hop test' is A-OK.  

Fingers crossed I am just a clumsy idiot and things will heal up in the next few days.  

Off to DC for the Marine Corps Marathon!!

Taper Traps.

From a Runner's World Article, after I googled 'Marathon Taper Pain'.  The three 'traps' below explain how I am feeling TO A TEE:  My hip/hamstring hurts for no apparent reason, my 4 mile run today felt worse than any of my long runs, and all I want to do is curl up in my bed and cry.

On my walk home from the park I had decided I was going to take the rest of the week off, but finding this article is comforting.  This running-taper stuff is crazy.  I am going to keep plugging away some 3-5 mile runs until race day.  

And I will not talk myself out of the marathon again, as I did twice during my run today...

Trap: Phantom Pains

Symptoms: A totally new pain in the foot, knee, hip, back, or insert-any-body-part vhere that strikes for no apparent reason.

Cause: Twinges and passing aches are all part of the body's rejuvenation process. "During a taper, tissue repair on the microscopic level causes muscle twitches and sometimes muscle cramps as the body adapts," says Dr. Smurawa. Also, when we run less, and worry more about our marathon, everyday aches and pains-which would normally be ignored--get exaggerated to the point of lunacy.

Solution: Think of each phantom pain as a signal that the body is healing itself and preparing you for the marathon. Since your workouts are now shorter, spend some extra time on your favorite stretches to help relax your body. And if you like whirlpools or long baths, indulge. Also, if you've had massages during other parts of your training, get one this week. It will further aid the healing process.

Trap: Heavy Legs

Symptoms: A tired, heavy feeling centered in the legs, but affecting your whole body, that you get late in a taper. 

Cause: "Tissue repair in the legs during recovery, coupled with the fact that you are storing more carbohydrate and water late in the taper, will make you feel like you do after eating a big meal," says Dr. Smurawa. In other words, you feel like a slug.

Solution: Remember you're not the only one feeling this way. "Just knowing that this is how tapering marathoners are supposed to feel can help curb your anxiety," says Robert Udewitz, Ph.D., a sports psychologist and the director of Behavior Therapy of New York. Also, try a few strides (100-meter sprints) after some of your easy runs. Strides can help knock off the rust, leaving you feeling fresh and ready without overdoing it.

Trap: That Sinking Feeling

Symptoms: A feeling of malaise, depression, and hopelessness, which often accompanies the physical sluggishness that intensifies at the end of a taper.

Cause: "Generally, running counters feelings of anxiety and depression," says Hays. "So as you run less miles, bad feelings tend to crop back up and increase." 

Solution: Take a short-term approach. "You only have to get through the rest of the taper," says Hays. Do a little low-impact and low-intensity cross-training--like pool running--to generate the good feelings you normally get from running. Also, use your downtime to focus on other things that bring pleasure to your life, such as listening to music, cooking, and being with family and friends. And rent some funny movies or read a few joke books to lighten your mood.

The flu?

I think I'm getting the flu.  Honestly, I HOPE I'm getting the flu.

Both of my entire legs are in pain.  From my ankles to my hips.  It hurts to walk up the subway stairs.  And I got 9 hours of sleep last night.

This can't be normal taper-aches and pains, right?

Ugh, I have to go to sleep now.

So cute.

I got home from my run this morning with the following text from my dad:

9:44am

"It's 45 degrees and windy and I'm about to do a 30 mile ride in Poolesville.  Think I need my head examined or just shoot me."

My response?

"Ha ha- you have the bug! Good Job"

He wrote back:

"Survived, barely- f**cking hills."

(yes, he did use the **s in the text...too cute).

I am SO proud of my dad for picking up biking in the past year.  He has done a few 45+ rides (on a hybrid!) and even mastered clipless pedals!  Depending on the weather, next weekend we are planning on cruising around the Marine Corps Marathon route on our bikes to spectate!

Last long run DONE.

This morning I ran the last 12 miles of the NYC Marathon course as my final 'long' run in preparation for my first marathon (in TWO weeks!!).

After a not so great week mentally and physically, I went into this last run a bit apprehensive.  I was excited to run on the marathon course, especially the second half of the course, which has more hills (read: bridges) than the first half.  But I was worried that my body, being in the mid-taper-I-need-rest mode, was going to not agree with the run and it would freak me out that the 'course' was the problem, not my body.

Well, all and all, it went well.  The pace, which I slowed WAY down from last week, felt comfortable.  The inclines were definitely noticeable, and of course will be worse on race day, but I'm glad I know where they are and what to expect.  And I am now fully aware the miles 20-23 of the course will be the hardest for me.  

It was also COLD this morning- as in 40 degrees and windy at the start of the run.  This is the first run since I hurt my hip that I have done in the cold.  I am glad I got to wear my capris for a longer run, in case I want to wear them for the marathon, but my hip DID NOT agree with the cold weather.  It was tight and achy the entire run.  I am glad to have experienced this NOW, before the race, however I am wondering what I can do to remedy the problem before the marathon.  My doc said my hip will now know when it is rainy, humid, etc, but i didn't realize cold would fall into that category.  

My only hope is that this weather hangs around and the next few weeks of running will help my hip acclimate to the brisker temps.

Traumeel....

...is my new best friend.

Had never heard of it.  And honestly, when the Chiro recommended the other night, I was skeptical.  But all the other supplements he recommended have kept me healthy thus far.  I had to stock up on my other supplements anyway, so I added it to the bag.

After three applications, I am in love.

Yes, I also got ART on my calf last night, and a fancy new laser treatment (the doc wouldn't laser my face, unfourtunatly...)...but whatever works!!

After a horrible-n0 good-very rotten 6 mile run this morning that included more walking than running, I have also officially decided to give myself (mind, body and legs) a rest.  I will not be running again until Sunday- and I will run the last 12 miles of the NYC Marathon route.  I want to be in a good place, mentally and physically, going into this run, so it does not psych my out for the actual race. 

My weekend visitor....

Mr. Ernie...

Aches and pains.

I ran more last week than I ever have before.

I ran the longest single run I have ever done (and I did it too fast)

Of Course I am going to be sore.  Funny thing is, I'm not sore in my weak hip.

My calf hurts.  Behind my knee hurts.

My shins are fine.  My hip is surprisingly OK- no nagging after three hard weeks in a row.

I think my body is just literally aching for rest.  I have been painfully tired on top of the aches.

I have felt like this in my life before.  I have completed 30+ hour training weeks in college (Training trip hell- 10 days of 2-hour doubles, mostly long course, with a swim meet at the end --  and some of my most cerished swimming memories are from these trips).  It has just been awhile.  

Swimming-taper was second nature. I also had years of base to trust, and a coach to listen to.  The running-taper is new to me.    I am scared that I don't have enough base to justify three weeks of rest.  But my body is telling me it needs it.   And I am going to listen.  There is not much else I can do now that is going to help me on November 2, other than be confident that I have done the work.  

Now it is time to let my body repair itself, and trust the hard work I have put in since stepping off the plane from South Africa in March.  

20 miles done.

20 miles in the bank.  Planned to do the whole thing slow and comfortable.  First 13.1 as part of the NYRR Staten Island Half Marathon, then 7 miles after (my apartment is 7 miles exactly straight up the West Side Highway from the Staten Island Ferry terminal building in Battery Park).

The run went exactly opposite of how I wanted it to go.  Started out good- comfortable, no effort pace.  Then I started to descend.  For absolutely no reason.  Negative split the half marathon probably by at least 2-3 minutes.

Took some Tylenol, had a 25 minute ferry-ride break, then started back up the West Side Highway.  It was hot.  I was sore.  Was able to pick up the pace the last few miles, and am happy the run is done.  But I really wish I had run it like I meant to.

And it was really hot, and I am REALLY sunburned.  Yes, it is October.

Lesson 1- I think that I just cannot use the NYRR races as 'training' runs.  Never am able to hold the slower, comfortable pace that I want to in that atmosphere. 

Lesson 2- If the marathon is as hot as it was today, I need to run with my water bottle with Nuun.  I was hurting today towards the end of the run, and a bottle of ice cold powerade really made a difference in the last 3-4 miles.

Lesson 3- Immodium is awesome (Thanks RR!).  First long run in a WHILE with no bathroom stops.

Lesson 4- I have NO CLUE what to expect from this damn marathon.

Now, I have a date with Gossip Girl.  

No, not to watch.  They are shooting on my street.  I am going to go be a teenage girl and take camera phone pictures :)

Ps- CONGRATS TO RR and Maggs on KONA yesterday!!!  My friend Julia, in her first Ironman, rocked out a 10.53 and got 7th in her age group! Super star!

Marathon Goals

A goal- Beat Sarah Palin (3:59:36)

B goal- Beat P Diddy (4:14)

C goal- Beat Oprah (4:29)


...I kid, I kid.

Real goals coming soon :)

Mile Repeats.

yeah yeah yeah, I know: I'm not going to do speed work.  And I have been really good about NOT doing any since my last mile repeats (and subsequent week off...).

Tonight. I did mile repeats.

Last time (roughly 6 weeks ago): 6:58, 7:41, 7:41

First one felt GREAT, 2nd two were awful-crampy-painful.

Tonight: 6:55, 7:06, 7:11

First one felt AWFUL, 2nd two felt strong and controlled.

Rewarded myself with a Gyro Platter after 8 days of healthy eating.

The fear of planning...

As you may have guessed from my last post, I am trying to start planning my race schedule for next season.  In a perfect world, this would be my schedule next year:

March 11 Global Dolphin Beach

April Two Oceans Half Marathon

January 2009- South Africa 70.3

(regardless of my physical living location, I am going to try to plan work trips around any or all of the three above):

HOWEVER, being more realistic as to where things stand right now (and where I currently live:) , here is what I am leaning towards:

Early Season Half Iron- Tupper Lake (late June) or Black Bear (late May)

Gold Coast Sprint- Early June, already registered, love this race

Mid Season OLY- Philly(late June) or NYC* (late July)

Philadelphia Women's Sprint- Early July (did this year- flat, fast course, nicely organized)

Late Season OLY- Mighty Hamptons/Westchester/The Nation's Triathlon in DC

(Also NYRR races all year, and possibly a fall marathon) 

The snags:

1. Philly OLY is the same date as Tupper Lake HIM

2. NYC is overpriced in my opinion (however, Philly would cost more once you factor in hotel and travel to the race)

*I also still have a bone to pick with the NYC course, as in, I want to kick it's ass like it kicked mine in 2007.

3. I really wanted to go up and watch Lake Placid this year 

4. Early HIM = Finally need to invest in a bike trainer (which I am OK with)

Most of the registrations for these races are currently open or open Nov 1.  ie, I need to decide.  

Oh, and I also need to find some extra cash laying around to pay for the registration 

AND the new bike I want.

Sweet.

Honestly, I think the thing that scares me most about this planning, more than breaking out the credit card to pay for it, is that I had a great season planned out last year too.   Two Oceans, St. Anthony's, Eagleman...and it all came crashing down.  I know I have done all I can (OK, well not ALL I can, but a lot) to prevent another injury, but the fear is still there that when I try to ramp up the intensity again to train for a 10k run, or add in the biking mileage on top of the running miles, old or new injuries will set me back again.  I think/HOPE that completing the marathon takes some of these fears away, proves that I am OK and not broken and can move forward, but the fear still lingers....

Ugh, I just need to go out and run.

Bummer

They changed the date of the NYC Triathlon this year, so it again falls on the same date as Lake Placid, bummer.

And now the NJ State Triathlon is the SAME date, too!

You would think SOMEONE would realize that many people would want to do two, if not all three, of these races!?

It's so hard to plan your life 10 months in advance, especially when I am actively trying to get relocated to Africa. Feels like I am throwing away the entry fees in a way.

Oh, and $225 for an OLY? Gag me. (But when you consider, no travel costs and hotel, etc, it probably ends up cheaper, BUT still $225 upfront just KILLS me for an OLY.) I could do probably two other local OLYs for that price. 100% lame and I don't think at ALL justified, as the course/race hasn't changed at all over the past two years, just the price!

Grete's Great Gallop

Grete's Great Gallop - 1:51:34 (8:30 pace)

Distance:  13.1 Miles, 21.1 Kilometers 
Date/Time:  Oct. 4 2008, 9:00 am 
Location:  Central Park, NYC 
Weather:  49 Deg. 71% Hum. Wind 3 mph

Intervals (Grete's Gallop)							edit  |  delete
Type	Distance	Time	Total Time	Pace	Avg HR	Max HR	Notes
Mile 1l	1 Mi	8:00	8:00	8:00
Mile 2	1 Mi	8:07	16:07	8:07
Mile 3	1 Mi	8:03	24:10	8:03
Mile 4	1 Mi	8:44	32:54	8:44			Harlem Hills
Mile 5	1 Mi	8:35	41:29	8:35
Mile 6	1 Mi	8:24	49:53	8:24			Gu
Mile 7	1 Mi	8:12	58:05	8:12
Mile 8	1 Mi	9:16	1:07:21	9:16			Bathroom stop
Mile 9/10	2 Mi	17:10	1:24:31	8:35			Harlem Hills
Mile 11	1 Mi	8:45	1:33:16	8:45
Mile 12	1 Mi	8:39	1:41:55	8:39
Mile 13/.1	1.1 Mi	9:33	1:51:28	8:41

I am REALLY REALLY happy with this race.  I knew I was going out to fast.  Perhaps I could have held that pace-  I didn't want to. I reigned it in the first trip through the Northern Hills in the park, reminded myself that even though I wanted to race, it was still a training run, walked the water stops, and was able to run a pace that was within myself and comfortable to sustain for 13.1 miles.  

Don't get me wrong, my legs were very ready to be done at the end.

But after a too fast 19-miler last weekend, a tempo run on Thursday (bc I'm an idiot), and a bathroom stop, being only 3 minutes off my half marathon personal best (on a very hilly course) makes me a very happy girl.

Mentally, I was all over the place, it was the first race I have ever run that I just didn't want to be there.  I'm right on the edge, and have ONE MORE week until I start to rest.  My body knows it, and is ready to be there.  One more week.  I actually had decided to stop after 1 loop of the park (6 miles) right around mile 3.   Just didn't feel like doing any more.  It was wierd- for no reason at all, I just decided I was going to stop.   I obviously changed my mind at some point, but it was a strange feeling.   It's funny though, I ran into Dr. M, my ortho, after the race, and he said he felt the EXACT same way.  

KONA!

I have mentioned before that one of my best friends qualified for KONA at Eagleman this year, quite unexpectedly. She has worked her ASS off since June to get ready for her first Ironman.

Of course her friends here in NYC and around the country (and world) would love to be at the race to cheer her on, it just didn't work out. However, her roommate and I have put together a little suprise for her to help keep her company during her trip to Hawaii, and feel that her biggest supporters of there with her on race day.

We put together a video for her, posted it on a blog, and asked our friends and families to post good luck messages. It is turning into quite a special thing that makes me tear up everytime I go to check on it. Our friend also just posted the most HYSTERICAL video ever, and I thought I should share.

Hope you all get as big a laugh out of the latest video as I did!!!

100 Good Luck for Julia!

...And RR and Maggs, hope the nutrition advice is helpful :)

Thank you!!

Thanks Maggs!!!

...but I guess this means I need to go swimming?

A lovely mistake.

So at the grocery last night, I picked up the wrong kind of granola bar. Oh, but what a lovely mistake.....



No. Probably not the best thing for the healthy eating goal. But now I have to at least finish the box!

SO GOOD!