Minneapolis-Star-Tribune-runningkellometers

In 2011, my husband lost one of his cousins in a tragic accident over Memorial Day weekend. The holiday now has new meaning in his family. Last year I organized a memorial walk/run at a 5k near my husband's family cottage. The entire family participated in memory of David. I thought things worked out well last year and I was asked to organize the event again.

I did my fair share of racing this year and there were some ups and some downs. When deciding on my 2013 schedule, it is definitely helpful to have an electronic trail of all your previous races, remembering things you liked and didn't like. Here is a list of my favorite races from 2012.

This is a big Chicago race and one I have a lot of fun with every year. I have run this race every year sine 2007. I'm already registered for the 2013 event, making it my 6th Shamrock Shuffle. I really like that you get the chance to run through the city without completing a huge distance like a half or full marathon. The entry fee is a bit on the pricey side, (around $40) but I think it is well worth it. The swag bag includes a dryfit t-shirt and that is about it. The expo is pretty big where there are plenty of free samples and good deals to be had. The race is put on by the same corporation (and same race director) as the Chicago Marathon so it is obvious that they know what they're doing. Everything is always well organized, packet pickup is a breeze, and things are fairly efficient. The post-race party is always really fun, filled with plenty of food and a free beer ticket. It is a great place to socialize with friends to talk about the race. As Amanda and I both like to call it the Best. Race. Ever. !! (Official website)



2012 was the first time I had run this race, but I had always heard great things (from both family and running friends alike). I was happy to get the opportunity to run it and I had a blast. That is, before I started to self-destruct because of how hot race day was... The swag bag was amazing, the shirts fit nicely, the expo was alright for being a local small-town race. The only thing I would say could have made this race better would be pace groups, and they are adding them for the 2013 event! A local running store puts on this race and you can tell it is put together by runners. The course is a nice "out and back" and would be a good place to PR. (Official website)

FNRC before the race

Having fun at the expo with Mag Mile Runner

I had never run a Rock N Roll event before 2012 because of the price. If you don't register early the price goes up, by a lot and quickly. Despite the larger-than-usual price tag, I think this is a great race. It is throughout the streets of Chicago, with pace teams, and a big expo. I think I had more fun at the expo than the actual race (but that was more due to my self-destruction because of the heat, as opposed to the actual race itself). Packet pickup was a breeze and things were run efficiently. They put on a lot of Rock N Roll races in tons of different cities and states and I think Chicago is one of the more efficient (and longest-run) ones. The medical staff was friendly and accommodating  the post-race party was great, and I love when races include a free beer at the finish. I'm not signed up again for the 2013 race because I am refraining from lots of summer races this year. If I wasn't doing Ragnar, it would be on my schedule for sure. (Official website)



The main draw for this race is that it is local (about 15 minutes from my house), it was the day before the Chicago Marathon (had my fingers crossed for an age group award), and it was extremely cheap ($15 if you pre-registered). If I was running the Chicago Marathon, I wouldn't have done this race. Packet pick-up was available race-day and things were fairly sufficient. As I arrived early, there was plenty of parking available (this race is still fairly small). The race was gun timed so you needed to start near the front if you were looking to PR. The course was scenic and along the local trail (although, it included a fairly large uphill bridge on the way out and back) but it made for a fun little challenge. The post-race eats were quite delicious including donuts, bagels, water bottles, granola bars, and coffee (my favorite part of local races). We even made it onto the local cable access channel (if you check around 3:14, 5:24, and 12:25 you may see a familiar face). This race was a lot of fun and I plan on doing it again next year.


For all of my full race recaps from 2012 and before, check out the "Previous Races" section of my blog.

Thank you for the support over the past few days/weeks/months as I have been studying for the big exam and haven't been around much. Special thanks to all my guest posters (Amy, Andrea, Paulette, Lisa, Maggie, Amanda, and Nicole) that made things easier on me when I didn't have the time or energy to post. I'm happy to be back with the living in more ways than one.

Things on the running front have not been what they once were. I've been running a dismal 2 days a week for the past month. I knew this would happen, and I think my legs were happy for the break. I have a big 2013 planned, so I'm ready to start tuning things up again in December. I was happy I was able to at least get in a few miles here and there to help relieve some of the stress and anxiety along the way.

I am signed up for the Jingle Bell 5k in Kankakee next weekend. A huge group from our running club is going to be there and I'm looking forward to hanging out with everyone! I know I'm not going to PR so I offered to try and help my friend Amanda to a PR. We will see what the day brings, but I think she can do it. :) We all plan on wearing wacky Christmas sweaters and sparkle skirts to the race. I'm no stranger to wearing ugly Christmas sweaters, while running or in public.

What is the goofiest outfit you've ever worn to a race or group fun run?

A little while ago I signed up for a local 5k the day before the marathon. I was taking my time while eating my breakfast and took this great photo:

When I showed up to pick up my packet, in downtown Frankfort, most of the people walking around were wearing the race shirts (and quite a few folks had their bib numbers on the back). The area where everyone was congregating was close to nice public bathrooms and a grassy area with plenty of space to stretch (including a decent amount of parking).

Due to the date in proximity of the marathon (and the fact that there was another 5k in the next town over at the same time), I thought I could escape with an age group award. As I haven't had the time to focus on speed work as much, I wasn't aiming for a PR. Instead, I was aiming to start slower and have my last mile be my fastest. This race was gun timed so I settled in close to the start line. (For a start line photo, checkout #22 on this photo stream. Don't want to post due to possible copyright issues.)

Of course, my Garmin went back to the home screen by the time the gun went off, so I started it a few seconds afterwards. The first mile I tried not to go out too quick as people were blazing by. My Garmin beeped at a pace of 7:30 for mile 1. I felt good and thought this was going well.

I tried to pick it up a bit for the second mile and passed some folks ahead of me. I know the trail we were on pretty well (it is the same trail we run on every Thursday) and there is a big bridge/hill along the way. Before reaching the 2 mile marker, the course shifted and I saw were were going to head up and down the big hill. Since this part of the course was "out and back," I was mentally preparing to do it again as soon as it was over. Mile 2 (including the first hill) was a 7:35 pace.

After mile 2, I didn't really pick it up. I knew the hill was ahead so I tried to keep it steady and save my energy. Once reaching the top of the hill, I kicked it into gear on the way down. I read somewhere that most people go uphill too fast and downhill too slow. I tried to reverse that and use the downhill portion to propel me forward finish strong! I saw a teenager ahead of me, I visualized that he was pulling me, and I focused on trying to pass him. I didn't pass him, but I'm happy with my finish as my last mile was 7:23... And I broke 23 for the 2nd time this year with a time of 22:59. (I'll take it.) Considering the 2 hills and my lack of speed work in recent weeks, I'm very happy with this time!

With the out and back course, I could see that there was only 1 female ahead of me... That means that I was the 2nd female to cross the finish line! I hung around for the awards ceremony in hopes of winning an age group award. While I was waiting, I munched on some of the post-race snacks including bananas, donut munchkins, bagels, and coffee. I gotta say that the thing I love most about local 5ks is the coffee they always have post-race! It was delicious and helped keep me warm while I was waiting. I did end up winning first in my age group and I'm very excited about it!

1st Place, Female 20-29

After I received my award and had a local spectator take this photo of me on the Old Plank Trail, I headed home to clean around the house and get ready for a full day of marathon spectating! I really enjoyed this race!

Pros:
Nice long sleeved t-shirt
Cheap entrance fee ($15 if you preregistered)
Beautiful course (out on the trail)
Fantastic support from local police to make sure runners were safe
Well-marked course

Cons:
The course with that hill, twice (I guess it makes for a challenge)
It would be nice if they had awards for 2nd place too instead of just 1st

Would I do this race again? Absolutely! I also highly recommend it to other runners! Although, if they changed the weekend of this race to not be so close to the marathon, I bet they would have a lot more folks enter.

I knew I would be excited for my friends running the marathon this year, but I didn't think I'd be this excited... A chill remains in the air. Banners are up throughout the town. Street closure warning signs are posted. Plans for the expo are coordinated. Marathon fever in the city of Chicago is in full swing and I'm soaking it all in. I have to admit, it is really nice to be on the spectating/support side of things. (My previous marathon regret has passed with all the studying I've been doing these last few weeks.) This time of year always gets me excited! I have to admit, I fully plan on wearing my GR Marathon tee to casual Friday.

Yes, it is lime green and may be a bit much but I don't care. I am a member of the "finisher" club and I will be wearing my shirt with pride. :) When walking to work this morning and remembering the course, I got a little choked up. I guess this will always be an emotional time for me, until I'm able to tackle and finish the Chicago Marathon. In the mean time, I'm suuuper pumped to cheer on my running friends as they tackle this beast of a distance!

Do you ever get emotional thinking about a certain race? If you live in Chicago, are you sporting your marathon gear this week?

My guest bedroom has been completely taken over by running gear. Outfits and necessities are laid out for both Saturday and Sunday.

Thankfully the guest bedroom is rarely used so I can lay out all my running stuff and not feel guilty about it! :)

So, my strategy for the 5k on Saturday is to take the first mile easy-ish, and get progressively faster so my last mile is faster than my first (this rarely happens for me, so that is what I'm going to work towards). Pepper and Toph may be there to cheer us on! Yahooo!!!

I'm getting really excited about the Chicago Marathon this year. And I'm NOT running it. I think this is the most excited I've ever been about a marathon! :) So many of my friends are running the Marathon this year and I'm happy that I'm going to be able to support them! I started the Chicago Marathon last year but was a DNF. This race and I have some unfinished business. I know I will once again attempt the Chicago Marathon, but this is not that year.

The runner tracker is set and I should be receiving text alerts on race day. They only let me track 3 people so I had to make those choices wisely. I know there is a runner update on the website that can be used, so I'll be using that probably more.

On race day, I plan on hanging out at mile 17, near the mile marker, until I see Maggie run by, when I'll be joining her for a few miles of the race! If you're starting in an earlier corral and in the first wave, look for me on the east side of the street. I'll be wearing my FN Run Club shirt! (It also has "Running Kellometers" on the back.)

With Maggie and Julie on their 20 miler, wearing my FN Run Club shirt

If you see me out there, say hi! I plan on having a lot of stuff in the pockets of my shorts to help aid runners along the way. If you need something, ask! I already have my outfit and a lot of the items laid out. How am I going to fit all of it in my shorts? That has yet to be determined...

Thankfully my shorts have a lot of pockets in them. The particular shorts I will be wearing are very unflattering, but when it comes to race support it is definitely time to chose function over fashion. If you're part of wave 2, I might still see you at mile 17, but I might also end up at mile 23 (on the South side of the street, by the overpass near the El tracks). I'm not a fan of this wave start as it makes spectating and running with different people quite difficult.

I've been so excited about spectating and laying out my helping outfit, I haven't really been focusing on the 5k I'm running the day before! I don't think I'll PR as I haven't been as dedicated to my running while studying, but I think it will be fun regardless! I'm still going to give it my all, and I plan on pushing outside my comfort zone (which I sometimes have a difficult time doing).

Are you running the Chicago Marathon? Are you spectating the Chicago Marathon? If you're spectating, where will you be?

Over the weekend I completed the Warrior Dash for the 2nd year in a row. For those of you that are unfamiliar with the race, it is one of those obstacle course races. Kate S and I did it last year and had a blast.

Warrior Dash 2011

This year we decided to convince our husbands/fiancés to do it with us. We arrived early enough to pick up our packet and hang out a little before our wave time started. The race takes place over the course of 2 days and we chose the 2nd day (Sunday). It ended up raining all night on Saturday so I think the course was much muddier than usual. That's ok though, that is kind of the point. We made sure to get in a nice "before" photo.

L to R: Sam, Kate LF, Kate S, Matt, Mike Toph, me

We started right on time (9am). I wanted to just run this comfortably and have fun with it. I just ran a 5k on Thursday and I didn't want to overdo it. All of the obstacles get pretty crowded and if you're trying to go through the course quickly, you must choose your lanes carefully. This is a family friendly event full of lots of runners (and walkers) at all fitness levels, so you could easily get tied up at an obstacle if you are stuck behind someone who is struggling. Last year there seemed to be more obstacles that required upper body strength. This year there seemed to be more obstacles that required long legs (if you were tall, they were much easier).

After army crawling under barbed wire, walking across a rope net, sliding down a muddy slip n slide, climbing up a rock wall (and going down the other side on a firefighter pole), climbing up and down another net, jumping over fire, and swimming through a mud pit, I was done and wearing my medal. I quickly found my friends Kate S and her fiancé Matt as they finished before me.

I headed back towards the end of the race course to wait for Toph. When I saw him coming I got really excited because I know based on his time that the non-runner actually ran a majority of the race. He also said it wasn't nearly as bad as he thought it was going to be. Who knows--he just may become a runner some day! (Maybe...) The next ones to cross were Sam an Kate who did the entire race together. It was cute to see them cross the finish line together. After we were all done, we took our "after" photo and headed to the beer tent (crucial).

L to R: Mike, Toph, me, Sam, Kate LF, Matt, Kate S

L to R: Kate LF, Kate S, me

me and Toph

recreating the 2011 photo: Kate S and I

The swag for the race this year was a super soft unisex cotton tee. I don't like that it's unisex, but I love that it is super soft. We also got a "helmet." The folks from Monster and Bear Naked were also there handing out free samples (but the Monster drinks weren't cold enough so they weren't allowed to give them out...???)

All in all, this is a really fun race. It is kind of organized chaos once you're out there, and it is definitely a "run at your own risk" kind of thing. There is a greater risk of injury at these types of races so that is something to keep in mind before signing up.

Alternative title: The PR that wasn't.

When I first met with Coach Britt a few weeks ago, we talked my goal races. The Jim Gibbons was on my radar as well as the RNR Chicago Half Marathon. Throughout my training, although I had 2 goals, my mental focus remained on my half marathon. When the Jim Gibbons race was approaching I thought a PR would come "easy" based on my training. Note: No 5k PR is ever easy.

Race day came and since the start was at 6:25pm, I had all day to be nervous about the weather, the course, and other things one is worried about during a 5k. After work was over (which felt like forever), I headed over to the blogger meet up spot with Amanda and Maggie. At the meet up spot, Lauren and Britt came out to cheer us on even though they weren't running the race. What fun blogger friends that just come out to watch you run! :)

L to R: Susan, Amanda, Maggie, Lauren, Britt, me

After the photo we headed towards the start. I did a few quick warm up laps behind the porta potties with Maggie before the race to try to get the heartbeat going. When the gun went off I was really focused on not going out too fast. The plan was to keep the first mile at 7:20. When my Garmin hit 1 mile, I was right on Target. At mile 2 I decided to pick it up. That probably wasn't the best idea and I probably should have tried to keep it around 7:20. I saw Britt at the turnaround which was really motivating. I waved and she snapped a pic of me going by.

I really like this photo. I feel I look how I felt at this point--strong and fast. My mile 2 split was 7:15. I continued to pass people that had originally flew past me in the beginning so that felt good, but I felt myself slowing down. I had my watch on average pace (not lap pace) so I don't think I really realized how slow I was going. I thought I had this PR in the bag. When I got towards the end and saw the clock, I thought there had to be a mistake. My average pace on my Garmin was equating to a PR?! I tried to kick it out at the end, but it was too late. Mile 3 was clocked at 7:32. As we all know, Garmins are not an exact tool. The reason why I thought I had a PR was that my average pace was below my PR pace. The distance on my watch was 3.14 which probably accounted for the weaving and wide course lanes. (Note: I should pay closer attention to tangents in 5ks.) My final official time was 23:02. Not a PR but close. Special thanks to Lauren who was near the finish line, cheering us through the final stretch.

The more I think about the race, I can't be disappointed in myself. I gave it a good try and it just wasn't my day. This wasn't my race (this time). That is the great thing about 5ks, there will always be more. I know I have a PR in these legs... Now it is time to refocus my energy and mentality into the RNR Half Marathon. The more I think about it, I feel this is where my heart has been all along. RNR, I'm coming for you!

The race course itself was a nice out and back. There was some gravel so it seemed a bit dusty the first mile when the super speedy folks were literally leaving u's in their dust. I loved that they had race-day packet pickup so I didn't have to stress about trying to get to whatever random downtown location days before the race. They changed the shirts this year to offer a dryfit gender specific option, but the shirts were kind of boxy and not very fitted/flattering. They were still better than a unisex shirt though. 1 post-race beer was included with our entry and we had a choice of Summer Shandy or Miller Lite. Hello Summer Shandy! To me, it was the obvious choice. They had a live band playing some fun tunes and some folks even brought a blanket to sit and hang out for awhile. It was a fun race and definitely family friendly. I continue to recommend this race as I think it is well run, well organized, and for a good cause.

Hanging out with the FNRC post-race L to R: Me, Amanda, Wayne, Susan, Tony, Maggie

Now it is time to have some fun at the Warrior Dash this weekend! :) I'm ready to get covered in mud on a 90 degree day.

Today is my goal 5k for the summer. The temperatures the past few days in the evenings have been beautiful (low to mid 70s with a cool breeze). Of course today, on race day, temperatures are expected to be in the low 80s by the time the gun goes off. I'm going to try not to stress about the heat. I did a 10 mile progressive run when it was in the high 70s/low 80s (but the sun had set) and I did a 6 mile "run" when it was 97 degrees so have done some things to prepare for the heat. Am I ready to run a 5k at PR pace when it is 82 degrees out? I don't know, but I'm certainly going to try. If it doesn't work out, I won't be crushed. That's the thing about 5ks, there are always a million of them. I can work towards one on a later date (there are a few on my radar in August and September). I am super excited that my coach will out there to spectate and cheer. I know I'm going to have a fun time, regardless of what the clock says. If you plan on being there, meet up with us!!

Yesterday I ran 5 miles around my neighborhood and almost got attacked by a vicious chihuahua. Yes, you read the dog breed right. This thing was growling, barking, and snarling at me. Thankfully I was able to keep it at bay, shielding my left shin with the bottom of my right shoe. Why do people have their dogs outside and not on a leash? I've had this scenario happen a couple times. Luckily I'm a dog person and try my best to remain calm, but people have to get their ish together. Now, speaking of dogs, I thought I would post this amazing photo my husband's uncle took of our pup.

I mean, I know our dog is adorable but I really, really love this photo. Would it be creepy for me to get this printed in an 8x10 to hang on our living room wall? I didn't think so either. :)

I know that there has been some blogger buzz around the 13.1 half marathon this year in Chicago. I haven't talked about it much because I won't be running the race this year. However, like many other bloggers, I'd like to offer a reader the change to enter into the 5k the day of the race (Saturday, June 9). In order to be entered into the giveaway, all you have to do is leave me a comment letting me know you are interested. I will choose the winner by Wednesday, June 6 at 9am CST as online registration has to be completed by June 6.

Partnering with the 13.1 event is the charity, Give Your Sole. Some information is below on the charity and how you can participate.

Details: · Allstate Life Insurance Company and non-profit organization Give Your Sole are giving half marathon runners the chance to leave a unique footprint on local communities as part of a shoe donation program around Allstate Life Insurance SM 13.1 Marathon® Series races.


· Beginning with the Chicago 13.1 Marathon on June 9, race participants, spectators and local residents can donate moderately used athletic shoes to benefit homeless shelters and missions in race markets. All shoes collected in Chicago will be donated to Breakthrough, an organization that provides shelter, meals and other services to homeless men, women and children within the city.


· In addition to the Finish Line Festival, race participants and local residents will be invited to donate shoes at 2012 race packet pick-up events leading up to the race. Participating Allstate® agents will assist with collecting donations by inviting customers to drop off shoes at their local agencies. In Chicago, donations will also be collected at participating Fleet Feet Sports store locations (N. Lincoln Ave. and N. Wells St. in Chicago, and at E. Schiller St. in Elmhurst) until June 10.


· To celebrate the program launch in their hometown of Chicago on June 9, Allstate Life Insurance Company has teamed up with Chicago Bears’ 2012 first-round draft pick Shea McClellin to interact with runners and encourage donations at the Allstate Life InsuranceSM Chicago 13.1 Marathon® Finish Line Festival, held at the South Shore Cultural Center.

I plan on donating a few pairs (that I won't be wearing to the Warrior Dash later this month). Have you donated shoes before? If so, was it part of a race or simply at your local Goodwill or donation center?

I have been running on empty the past few days. I didn't get enough sleep on the bachelorette party weekend, I worked crazy hours on Monday, and I had a day trip to Memphis on Tuesday. By yesterday, I was dying and having trouble keeping my head up at my desk come 3pm. I had speedwork on the schedule for later in the evening and I talked to my coach and we made some adjustments. The workout was mile repeats which I hadn't done before. I love a challenge and I'm surprised what I can do in workouts when I aim for a loftier pace goal than I would have even tried without the help of my coach. And then when I try it, it isn't as hard as I thought it would be. I'm getting excited for some of the upcoming goal races to REALLY see what I can do when I have the confidence and training to push my body farther than it has ever gone before. Get ready PR! I'm coming for you!

I officially signed up for the Jim Gibbons 5k today. It is the first 5k I ever did, back in 2006. Here is a small excerpt from my embarrassing old college LiveJournal (to anyone interested in reading that pile of garbage, it is "friends only," sorry... not really).

June 15, 2006
i am running a 5k today for lukemia research. its the first 5k i've done in years, if ever. i am running it with amanda so it should be fun. if this works out, i might do these more often. 

Who knew I'd become so addicted only a few short years later? I think of what my life was then and what it is now and so much has changed! As kind of a trip down memory lane, I've made this race one of my goal races for the year. I'm excited to push the pace and aim for that 5k PR that I know I can achieve! It is on Thursday, June 14 at 6:30 in the city and quite a few of my fellow blogger friends are doing it too. I know there is an Active Advantage discount if you're a member, so you should sign up too! We are going to probably do a meetup too before and after the race. If you're looking for a reason to signup, last time I did it, there was free beer post-race. Just saying....!!!

Do you often think about your first race (outside of high school athletics)? What distance was it and how long ago? I don't have any photos from back then, otherwise I would post it! Instead, I'll leave you with a photo from my first Shamrock Shuffle 8k, 9 months after my first ever 5k. I think this race was kind of a door-opener to other races for me. I had friends that were running it, I had graduated college, I was ready to start my life as an adult.

I'm the one in the middle, bib #19463, giving the camera the stink eye

Now... Let's talk about some things about this photo that make me giggle. I don't even know what shorts those are. Those gym shoes are totally from high school and 4+ years old (and the sports bra is probably from high school too--yikes). I love that I'm wearing my bib over my boobs. Why wear a sweet UIC shirt if no one can see the logo? Also, I think that MP3 play I'm using can only hold about 15 songs on it. (Thankfully it was a short race.) Despite all these things, I still ran a 47:34 (9:34) with no pain. Ah to be young again. Haha. Do you have photos from an early race? How have you changed since then?

A long time ago I registered for the Palos Half Marathon as a goal race. I knew a lot of my running friends were going to be there. It is a flat and fast course so I was aiming for a big PR. Then, I tried to do too many things. I signed up for a ton of races and committed myself to a lot of other things. I can't PR them all so I have decided to choose goal races and stop trying to do too much. I've decided to run the Palos Half Marathon this weekend as a training run. I already beat my original goal for the year of beating the 2:00 mark for a half marathon. Now it is time to work on base building, fundamentals, and sharpening as I see what I can do!

I'm going to run the half marathon this weekend as a training run and just have fun with it. Old Kelly would have found this to be a real challenge. Post-marathon Kelly is okay with it and looking forward to the end goal.

I've decided to have two goal races this summer.

1) Rock N Roll Half Marathon
2) Jim Gibbons 5k

I haven't run a Rock N Roll race before, but I know there will be lots of people. I'm hoping to thrive off of the energy of a big race like this. I know there will be strangers around me to compete with so I can push it to the limit! :)

The Jim Gibbons 5k was my first 5k ever back in 2006. I haven't done the race in the past few years and I think it would be fun to reflect and reminisce about how much has changed since 2006. As this race is on a Thursday evening, I think it would be fun to get a group of Chicago Bloggers to come out and enjoy the fun! If you work in the loop, I can't think of a valid excuse NOT to run it! ;)

Have you had to change your race goals because you are your own worst enemy sometimes?

What are your thoughts on quality over quantity when it comes to racing?

Saturday morning I got up and met with my normal group of Yankee Runners to finish 8 miles. This was the group's last run before the Illinois Marathon next weekend. I'll be driving down the morning of the race and meeting up with other Yankee Runners and running part of the marathon with Amanda! I have some other friends that are completing the half. If you're running the race or are going to be in the area, let me know! I'd love to meet up! I haven't spectated for a marathon in a long time, and I'm very much looking forward to being on the other side of things this time around!

Saturday night my husband met up with some friends in downtown Chicago and I was looking forward to a night of rest, relaxation, and Parks and Recreation OnDemand.

yogurt parfait dessert + Tom Haverford

Then, I heard about a midnight 5k in Coal City and a few members of the FN Run Club were going to do it. The more I thought about it, the more I decided that trying to run a 5k the same day you ran 8 miles probably wasn't a good idea. But I had the 5k bug... I went RunChicagoSouth.com and looked up other 5ks in the area on Sunday.

I decided on the Sheryl Garrett Lapka 5k in Lisle. It was an inaugural race so I wasn't sure what to expect. When first arriving, some of the volunteers working registration and packet pickup seemed a bit confused, but the race director knew what was going on (so that was helpful). There weren't many frills for this race, but all of the funds generated were going to ovarian cancer research. Before a small race, I always end up sizing up the competition--seeing who might be in my age group, who looks like they'd be super fast, etc. Am I the only one who does this? I hope not, lol.

The beautiful scenery

The race started right on time, 8:30 sharp and went around the Community Park in Lisle. The park was absolutely gorgeous and it made for some wonderful scenery. I started out and was going to try to maintain my PR pace of 7:26. There were a few other females that started with me and we stuck together through the 1st mile. Mile 1: 7:28. I was happy with that. I didn't start out too fast which was awesome. The second mile I started to pull ahead of those that were around me. I didn't feel like I was picking it up, but just maintaining. Mile 2: 7:27. I couldn't be happier with this consistent split! Who is this person running a 5k? Maybe I'm actually understanding how pacing works during a race??

After the mile 2 marker, I turned a corner and saw 2 other girls in front of me (they looked to be on a high school cross country team). They seemed to be keeping together and I passed them both, continuing my consistent pace(?!). About a 1/4 mile after passing them, there came a large section of spectators cheering me on. "First girl! First girl! Way to go!" I said "What??" with a huge smile on my face. Was I really the first female right now??

At mile 2.5 I tried to pick up the pace but my legs were tired. There was no one in front or behind me on the course so I was trying to dig for some motivation to pick it up. When I turned the corner and saw the clock, that is when it hit me.

Yes, my legs really are that pale. Source

The clock was in the 22's! I would be able to break the 23:00 barrier! I kicked it out and tried to finish strong. Heading down the final stretch, more people were cheering "First Female Finisher! You've got this! Finish strong!"

Source

Official time: 22:53 (7:23 splits). (My Garmin marked the course as only being 3.07 miles which is why my mile splits aren't consistent with my finishing time.) But I'm going to take this win and this PR and enjoy it! I am so beyond excited with this victory in so many ways. As it was a small inaugural race, they didn't announce the first female finisher during the awards ceremony afterwards, only the first finisher (let's be honest, I was kind of bummed about that). But they did have awards for the first 2 people in every 10 year age group. 

I couldn't be happier with my time, and I was happy to have gotten out there to run this race! I met my goal, but I felt like I lost motivation part way through the race. I know I have a faster time in me, and that feels awesome. Have you ever felt that way before?

Additionally, they had some Honey Stinger samples that I grabbed as I have been dying to try this brand. I ate the Berry Banana Buzz on my way home. It was delicious! However, I tasted a lot of berry and honey, but not much banana at all. Left to try: Apple Cinnamon and Peanut Butter N Honey. I'll keep you posted when I try the others.

P.S. Have you entered by Oiselle Raffle yet??

Saturday morning I woke up to let the dog out and the temps were below freezing. I knew the planned 5k was going to be a rough one, weather wise. I packed some additional layers and headed out to drive back to the old stomping grounds in Old Town for the Cupid's Chase 5k in downtown Chicago. Amanda and I got there about an hour ahead of time to pick up our packets. Upon registering, they had an "unavailable/available" option. I didn't understand the option when registering (I thought it was related to running) so I picked "available." It seems obvious now, haha. Thankfully they let me switch it out upon arrival.

I thought it was a cute idea, I think they just should have explained the option on the website better. Other than that, the pickup was easy and I really appreciate when downtown races have race-day packet pickup. It is really helpful for those of us that live in the suburbs! We met up with Maggie and Genevieve pre-race to take some pictures!

Left to right: Amanda, me, Genevieve, and Maggie

As it was Saturday, we participated in the Sherry Arnold Virtual Run. We wore the Sherry Arnold bibs on our back and thought about her while we ran. 

Amanda and I were trying to break her old record, but with the snowy conditions and unshoveled trail, we knew it was going to be difficult. The first mile we were right on target, but with the weaving and such that took place, that was probably not the best idea to start out so strong. Our second mile split was behind, and we realized we weren't going to meet our goal. We finished strong and were happy with the end result regardless, 29:05. 

Finish line photo!

Special thanks to Nicole Fritz for taking our action shot photo! Overall, I thought it was a great race. The course was clearly marked (out and back) and I liked that it was an underutilized part of the lake front path, compared to other Chicago races.

Afterwards, we headed to breakfast at Nookies and it was wonderful. It totally hit the spot and was a great place to warm up with a warm cup of coffee. It made me really miss living in Chicago and the restaurants available at our disposal. It was a great end to a great morning and a great race. I would recommend this race to others as it was cute and not too expensive ($35) for a downtown Chicago 5k.

Special congrats goes out to Genevieve for PRing by over 3 minutes and chicking a guy too!

One of my goals for 2012 is to complete 1 race per month. So far, I am on target to meet this goal. A recent office email informed us that the firm will be reimbursing participants of specific races as part of the new health initiative. A list of the races is below.

Shamrock Shuffle 8k - Sunday, March 25
Ravenswood 5k - Sunday, April 29
Corporate Challenge 3.5m - Thursday, May 24
Lincoln Park Zoo Run 5k & 10k - Sunday, June 3
Jim Gibbons 5k - Thursday, June 14th
Terrapin 5k - Thursday, August 23
Race Judicata 5k - Thursday, September 13
Bucktown 5k - Sunday, September 30
Hot Chocolate 5k & 15 - Sunday, November 4

Thankfully, a lot of these coincide with my schedule and are normally pretty pricy. If they are free, however, I know my wallet will thank me to sign up for at least a few of these! I wish there were more longer distance races, but I'll take what I can get. Are any of you local Chicago runners thinking about doing any of these races?

I am yet again debating doing the Valparaiso Valentine's 5k this Sunday. I was completely set on it on Monday, until I've the Chicago Get Lucky website came out. Now, I just want to do this race (which is now $67.77 for the half marathon) and I figure the $20 I would have spent on the Valparaiso race (plus gas) can get me closer to it. Or maybe I just do both?? Decisions decisions. I guess we'll see how the weather shapes up this weekend!

Wednesday night I had some time after CCD to fit in a run, but I had to go solo (my dog had a puppy play date all day and was too exhausted to run). In light of the Sherry Arnold Virtual Race this weekend, and just in general, I was nervous to go out alone. I grabbed my pepper spray, told my husband where I was going, and headed out for a quick 3 miles on the sidewalks. I didn't look at my watch, I just wanted to go out and enjoy the run. I completed the 3 miles in 25:44 (8:34 pace) but with a huge stomach ache the last mile. Note to self: do not eat anything made with Velveeta before a run. It has the opposite effect of Gu and will slow you down and make you feel like you are going to throw up with every step.

Last night I hit the rowing machine in our basement to get caught up on Game of Thrones before the new season starts in April. Is anyone else as excited as I am for the new season? I've had the books on my list for awhile but have not yet committed to them.

Are you participating in the Virtual Sherry Arnold run this weekend? If so, where and how? I'm running the Cupid Chase and will have her on my mind as I help Amanda try to meet her PR goal. Are any other local Chicago bloggers going to be at the Cupid Chase this weekend? Fellow local blogger, Too Tall Fritz, has put together a group run in the Frankfort area as well (click here for more information). The group will be meeting at 7:30am this Saturday in Frankfort by Old Plank Trail and Wolf Road. Come one, come all and share your story!

Last night I worked late and was able to catch up on the Biggest Loser from last week. I don't know what it was like in previous seasons, but a lot of these folks seem like jerks. Does anyone have similar thoughts? While watching the Biggest Loser, I was inspired to do some workouts. I did all my normal core exercises and also tried to do some pushups. Wow, pushups are way harder than I remember. I could barely do 5 on my knees. Maybe one day I'll be able to do a normal one?

A recent announcement on Facebook over the weekend was that the Get Lucky 7k/21k was coming to Chicago. The race is being put on by Team Ortho (Monster Dash, Polar Dash). I've heard positives and negatives of both races, so I'm not sure about my feelings on Team Ortho. But I'm totally smitten/sucked in by the idea of another St. Patrick's Day themed race. The swag: a zip up jacket with the "Get Lucky" slogan on the front, a race medal with a shamrock on it. Let's be honest, I just really really want that shamrock medal! There are plenty of other spring races that are traditional half marathons, but their medal doesn't have a shamrock on it. (Haha I guess you can take the girl out of the South Side Irish but you can't take the South Side Irish out of the girl!)

I'm officially signed up for the Cupid Chase 5k this Saturday. I'll be pacing Amanda for a birthday PR (that I know she can totally get). I still plan on running the Valparaiso Valentine 5k on Sunday too, so this should be a fun and busy weekend! Will you be racing this weekend? If so, what race?

After a restful and relaxing Saturday night, I got up early for a busy Sunday.  I started things off by driving to Lemont for their 3rd annual Frigid 5k. I met up with a few Yankee Runners that were there and got warmed up. The race only cost $20 if you registered in advance, and that included a hooded sweatshirt, race entry, and breakfast with Santa afterwards.

First, the hooded sweatshirt. I have a problem with shirts being too short in the arms after I wash them once, so I went with the size medium. The sweatshirt is really warm, so that is a plus. The "swag bag" didn't include any other goodies or coupons, just info on 2 other local races and an evaluation form. Kind of disappointing but for $20, I can't complain.

Next, the race itself. The course (map below) included 2 loops around the same area. This was a run/walk so the path got a bit confusing at times.

 The volunteers didn't really know what they were doing. I ended up going the wrong way on part of the course, and I had to ask several times where I should go. The volunteers were only announcing things once every 6 or 7 runners. There could have been better signage or more vocal volunteers! This race wasn't chip timed and it appears that some folks finished the race after the 1st loop and messed with the scoring and ranking of others. Also, one guy was registered as a female so that also messed things up. It took over an hour after the last runner crossed the finish line to have the official results. Most of the gym had cleared so the only folks there to accept awards were those that thought they had won. Before I finish talking about the results, I want to talk about how the race went for me.

Sweet action shot

 The clock started when the gun went off so we tried to get spots near the front. In a sea of high school cross country boys, I started off too fast (7:16). My next mile, I was still with the group and had some sharp turns (7:38).

The last mile I was all by myself with no one to compete against, and I went the wrong way for part of the way (7:42). I sprinted the end (6:42) and finished in 23:03 according to my Garmin. That is an average of 7:26 per mile and a new PR!!! My previous PR was 23:44, an estimated time from the Hot Chocolate 5k. This is a new PR and official! There are so many things I could have done better, and I'm still really happy with my time. Next goal is to break into the 22 min category (obvi).

Waiting with friends for the race results. Photo Credit: Wendy Jay

The age groups in this race were groups of ten-ish, therefore my age group was 19-29. I placed 2nd and received my 2nd age group award ever!

Photo Credit: Wendy Jay

2nd place!

Now that awards were over, it was time to have breakfast with Santa! We headed over to the recreation center across the parking lot. Upon arrival, there was still a good amount of food left and things were pretty delicious!

Apparently I don't know how to evenly pour syrup.

However, the runners were banished to a side room that did not include Santa! What is the point of having breakfast with Santa if we can't see him? Kind of dumb if you ask me. We did end up walking over to the next room and got our picture taken with Santa.

The real deal! Photo credit: Joe Werner

All things said and done, I do not plan on running this race next year. It was fun, but there are other events that are organized better. What was your worst race experience? How did you do in spite of things?

After the race, it was time to head to Soldier Field for the Bears game. The first half was really fun to watch, but the second half was beyond miserable to watch. I did have fun regardless, but games are always more fun when your team wins!