I have moved!! It has taken me forever and a day, and this techno retard still has a lot of work to do, but I have finally moved here:
http://www.curiousrunner.com
No more girl, it's just straight Curious Runner (still a girl at heart though!). The blog has a whole new look and I hope you like it. Please make sure that you head over there and check it out (and keep in mind it is not totally finished yet), and make sure you follow me over at that address and not this one any longer.
Yaaaaay! See you over at Curiousrunner.com :)
Sunday, 9 February 2014
Tuesday, 24 December 2013
Exciting developments coming up...
Hi all my lovely readers...
I have some exciting developments coming up on the ol' bliggity blog, so just want to let you know I may be a little MIA on the posting front while the blog gets made bigger and better. I can't wait, there will be a new blog design, some fun posts and giveaways goin down yo..
Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a wonderful start to 2014. I'll catch you early in the new year!
Much love and thanks to all my lovely readers for coming back for more! Xx
Wednesday, 18 December 2013
Maintaining running fitness...
Over the last few weeks since my half marathon and marathon, I have really been taking it easy. I have been enjoying going for runs without any expectations on them. However, I have not been running anywhere near as much as I was when training and I definitely haven't been pushing myself in my running.
This morning I got myself geared up, strapped my wee buddy in the buggy and headed out for a buggy run.
It was 8.30am and cray-zizzle hot and I chose to do a 6km buggy run with mega hills. I felt every bit of it and ended up having to walk some of the hills, and even that almost caused me to pop a lung! I was so tired at the turnaround point that I had to make an excuse of stopping to take photos for my blog to give me a rest!
6 weeks ago I was running a marathon, now I'm popping a lung!
I was running a marathon, now I'm popping a lung! Whaaaaat!
If you have no idea what I am on about, watch this video... My fave part of the whole movie, I cried laughing!
Anyway. This got me thinking about losing running fitness. I was so surprised at how hard some of my longer runs have been feeling. I can't believe that it has happened so fast too. Who would have thought that not running would cause you to lose running fitness?? If only you could stay as fit by sitting on the couch watching youtube videos all day!
So this brings me to some tips on maintaining running fitness:
1. If you can't run to keep up your fitness due to a running injury, try a high intensity workout like a spin class, excellent for fitness maintenance and it is less impact on your body than running.
2. You don't have to run for miles and miles like in marathon training but make sure you keep some hills in there and maybe even a few sprints every now and then to help keep speed, leg strength and fitness up.
3. Do some weight work to help you keep leg and core strength.
4. Change it up a bit by adding in some fun social sports to your workouts. I have been playing summer soccer and that is so much fun, and a killer workout with all the short sprints I do up and down the field (which is pretty much all I do out there).
5. If you have lost all motivation after a long time training for a big event then get a running buddy. This will help you get out there and it is a lot more fun running with someone else.
6. Don't lose your routine. Make sure running, or whatever exercise you choose to do, stays as part of your daily routine.
And don't be hard on yourself. Remember you have just done a huge event, or recovered from an injury or come back after some time off (whatever it may be), so things aren't going to be the same as where you left them. You will have to work a bit to get it back but once you are into the swing of things you'll be running as good as ever in no time.
Now time to follow my own advice!!
Just on another note (and because I know you think my baby is as awesome as I do), my baby has been practicing his ninja skills and seems to be getting them down to a fine art...
This is how I have found him sleeping twice in the last week. I have no idea how he gets himself upside down in his smaller-than-average cot but I sooo wish I could have seen the whole thing!
This morning I got myself geared up, strapped my wee buddy in the buggy and headed out for a buggy run.
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| There is actually a child in there, promise! |
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| My stunning scenery - the sea is back there somewhere. |
6 weeks ago I was running a marathon, now I'm popping a lung!
I was running a marathon, now I'm popping a lung! Whaaaaat!
If you have no idea what I am on about, watch this video... My fave part of the whole movie, I cried laughing!
So this brings me to some tips on maintaining running fitness:
1. If you can't run to keep up your fitness due to a running injury, try a high intensity workout like a spin class, excellent for fitness maintenance and it is less impact on your body than running.
2. You don't have to run for miles and miles like in marathon training but make sure you keep some hills in there and maybe even a few sprints every now and then to help keep speed, leg strength and fitness up.
3. Do some weight work to help you keep leg and core strength.
4. Change it up a bit by adding in some fun social sports to your workouts. I have been playing summer soccer and that is so much fun, and a killer workout with all the short sprints I do up and down the field (which is pretty much all I do out there).
5. If you have lost all motivation after a long time training for a big event then get a running buddy. This will help you get out there and it is a lot more fun running with someone else.
6. Don't lose your routine. Make sure running, or whatever exercise you choose to do, stays as part of your daily routine.
And don't be hard on yourself. Remember you have just done a huge event, or recovered from an injury or come back after some time off (whatever it may be), so things aren't going to be the same as where you left them. You will have to work a bit to get it back but once you are into the swing of things you'll be running as good as ever in no time.
Now time to follow my own advice!!
Just on another note (and because I know you think my baby is as awesome as I do), my baby has been practicing his ninja skills and seems to be getting them down to a fine art...
This is how I have found him sleeping twice in the last week. I have no idea how he gets himself upside down in his smaller-than-average cot but I sooo wish I could have seen the whole thing!
How long does it take you to lose your running fitness?
Any other tips on how to maintain it or get it back quickly?
Favourite time of year to run?
Monday, 16 December 2013
Breastfeeding and running...
Here it is folks, I am finally getting into some nitty gritty topics on my blog.
So many people have asked me about how I have managed to be a runner and a new Mum, and in particular, training for a marathon (which I ran when my baby was 8 months old). When I think about it, yes, it is/was crazy. But it is totally doable if you really want to. I have also had many people asking me about breastfeeding and running and how I make it work. My boy is now 9.5 months old and still exclusively breastfed.
Breastfeeding has had its up and downs, for sure. And planning runs around naps and feeds and babysitters is not always easy, but as I mentioned above, can be done.
When I first got back into running after having my baby, I was really worried about it affecting my milk supply. I was worried because my husband and I had both made the decision that our son comes first and if the running affects my milk (as I had heard that it could), then I would have to stop, or just scale it back - both thoughts which freaked me out... A lot! To not run would just be so hard but I had to do what was best for my son.
I made the decision that I was going to be able to continue breastfeeding while training for a marathon. I wanted to be a person who was opposite to popular belief and have running increase my milk supply. So I researched diets and got some advice as to what things could help. I took a couple of supplements such as brewer's yeast and complan shakes, I expressed to keep up my supply, I got plenty of rest (it helped that my baby is an awesome sleeper) and decided that I would not try to cut my calories to loose weight. Plus, as a new Mum and a runner, you need all the energy you can get so cutting calories is just NOT an option there! I had a diet that was very high in protein, which is great for increasing milk supply (and actually just a really good diet that any runner/athlete should have), ate lots of legumes, eggs, beans, fruit and veges, nuts, yoghurt, and more.
My milk supply was awesome (and still is)! I would have a few days every now and then where I felt like it was getting low, but then it would always come right back up again. I actually think days like that are fairly normal for breastfeeding mothers, running or not. And do these thighs look like they have been deprived of anything???
I would plan my runs around Fletcher's feeds. During the week I would feed him, play with him and then put him to bed and run on the treadmill while he was sleeping (or take him running in the buggy and he'd sleep in there). For my long weekend runs I would get up before him (this always seemed crazy to me, getting up BEFORE my baby), eat and get all ready so that I could just feed him and then head out the door. I would feed him when I got back and the timing would be perfect. Since he was about 4 months old he decided that he just did not really like the bottle (after being fine taking it for his first 4 months), which was another hurdle, but we have worked around that one to suit us all.
Don't get me wrong, I have had moments where I just wish he was on a bottle, but being able to feed him for this long has been so great for all of us. I am hoping to start weaning him soon and I am soooo looking forward to that!
I think the most important thing about being active and a breastfeeding mother is that you take really good care of yourself, as well as your baby, and that you keep a positive mind about your milk supply and your ability to feed your baby. If you think your milk is running out, it most likely will, but if you think about having a truck load of milk, then you most likely will too!
I am not an expert on this topic at all, and everyone is different. Do seek professional advice if you are about to start running after having a baby, but don't be deterred by people telling you it 'can't be done', or 'it's not good for your milk'. It may not work for you, but be sure to make up your own mind about that one and go with what you feel is best for you and your family. You are doing a great job either way!
And one last pic of my baby that I am sure is going to be some sort of sports superstar by the way he is sucking on that medal...
So many people have asked me about how I have managed to be a runner and a new Mum, and in particular, training for a marathon (which I ran when my baby was 8 months old). When I think about it, yes, it is/was crazy. But it is totally doable if you really want to. I have also had many people asking me about breastfeeding and running and how I make it work. My boy is now 9.5 months old and still exclusively breastfed.
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| After the marathon - he totally wants that medal! |
When I first got back into running after having my baby, I was really worried about it affecting my milk supply. I was worried because my husband and I had both made the decision that our son comes first and if the running affects my milk (as I had heard that it could), then I would have to stop, or just scale it back - both thoughts which freaked me out... A lot! To not run would just be so hard but I had to do what was best for my son.
I made the decision that I was going to be able to continue breastfeeding while training for a marathon. I wanted to be a person who was opposite to popular belief and have running increase my milk supply. So I researched diets and got some advice as to what things could help. I took a couple of supplements such as brewer's yeast and complan shakes, I expressed to keep up my supply, I got plenty of rest (it helped that my baby is an awesome sleeper) and decided that I would not try to cut my calories to loose weight. Plus, as a new Mum and a runner, you need all the energy you can get so cutting calories is just NOT an option there! I had a diet that was very high in protein, which is great for increasing milk supply (and actually just a really good diet that any runner/athlete should have), ate lots of legumes, eggs, beans, fruit and veges, nuts, yoghurt, and more.
My milk supply was awesome (and still is)! I would have a few days every now and then where I felt like it was getting low, but then it would always come right back up again. I actually think days like that are fairly normal for breastfeeding mothers, running or not. And do these thighs look like they have been deprived of anything???
 |
Don't get me wrong, I have had moments where I just wish he was on a bottle, but being able to feed him for this long has been so great for all of us. I am hoping to start weaning him soon and I am soooo looking forward to that!
I think the most important thing about being active and a breastfeeding mother is that you take really good care of yourself, as well as your baby, and that you keep a positive mind about your milk supply and your ability to feed your baby. If you think your milk is running out, it most likely will, but if you think about having a truck load of milk, then you most likely will too!
I am not an expert on this topic at all, and everyone is different. Do seek professional advice if you are about to start running after having a baby, but don't be deterred by people telling you it 'can't be done', or 'it's not good for your milk'. It may not work for you, but be sure to make up your own mind about that one and go with what you feel is best for you and your family. You are doing a great job either way!
And one last pic of my baby that I am sure is going to be some sort of sports superstar by the way he is sucking on that medal...
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| The taste of victory maybe? |
Mums (moms) out there, did you exercise/run whilst breastfeeding? If so, any other advice you could add? How did you find it?
Friday, 6 December 2013
An unexpected break...
I am still here, in blog land!! And in real life!
It is that time of year where everyone and everything is getting cray cray busy, it's getting sunnier and hotter and we all just want to be at the beach! With my last marathon only 1 month ago, and a half almost 3 weeks ago, I have been taking an unplanned break. A break from running and blogging. I am sorry if you feel deprived of my witty and exciting stories that I post on here, but there willhopefully be plenty more where that came from in the coming months.
I have been enjoying taking walks and the odd run with the buggy, which I had forgotten just how hard that was! Yeesh! Time to stop feeding the baby!! (That was a joke, please don't report me!). I have done a couple of pump classes which pretty much put me out of action for the better part of the week after but have loved it! We've also been dabbling in a bit of social summer soccer (football). Too much fun!
It has been great to let my body have a good, relaxed recovery and now I am looking ahead to some races I want to do in the new year... Exciting!
So what have I been up to, youdon't ask? Well, here are some pictures to show you...
Yip, it's fun times in our household at the moment. Fletch is more and more becoming so much fun. He loves the water and the outdoors (just like his Mama) and he is very sociable. Apparently it's not cool to just hang with your Mum all day long?!
We're looking forward to our first Christmas as a family of 3 and to what the new year has in store for us. I am also beginning to plan some races for next year and I am already excited about those!
It is that time of year where everyone and everything is getting cray cray busy, it's getting sunnier and hotter and we all just want to be at the beach! With my last marathon only 1 month ago, and a half almost 3 weeks ago, I have been taking an unplanned break. A break from running and blogging. I am sorry if you feel deprived of my witty and exciting stories that I post on here, but there will
I have been enjoying taking walks and the odd run with the buggy, which I had forgotten just how hard that was! Yeesh! Time to stop feeding the baby!! (That was a joke, please don't report me!). I have done a couple of pump classes which pretty much put me out of action for the better part of the week after but have loved it! We've also been dabbling in a bit of social summer soccer (football). Too much fun!
It has been great to let my body have a good, relaxed recovery and now I am looking ahead to some races I want to do in the new year... Exciting!
So what have I been up to, you
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| Those beautiful eyes! |
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| An early family Christmas present - Stand up (or sit down with the baby) paddle board |
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| This guy keeps getting cuter and so much fun! |
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| bird feeding |
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| Happy hikers |
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| A spot of golf with the wee chap |
We're looking forward to our first Christmas as a family of 3 and to what the new year has in store for us. I am also beginning to plan some races for next year and I am already excited about those!
What have you been up to lately?
Do you ever take breaks from running/sports/exercising?
What are you looking forward to the most over the holidays?
Monday, 18 November 2013
Kerikeri Half Marathon Race Recap...
On Saturday I ran the Kerikeri Half marathon. I wasn't sure if I would survive to see the finish how I would go only 2 weeks after doing a full marathon and since my body had been on strike for two weeks, but I actually really enjoyed the race and am happy with how I went.
Because of the last two weeks, I decided that I wouldn't have a time goal and that all I wanted to do was to finish it and enjoy it and not die. Check! I was also happy to be doing it with these wonderful ladies who were all running their first halves:
It was a crazy hot day and the first 7kms were pretty much one long gradual up hill... Yay! I didn't want to crash and burn on the hills so decided to start out nice and slow and then if I felt ok after the hills, pick up the pace a little.
I started out behind the two hour pacer and was following behind her until about 12kms where I caught up to her. At around 14kms I overtook her and felt like I was happy to pick up the pace some more. With about 500m to go I decided I was just going to nail it to the finish line. Ok, so by nail it I mean sprint and by sprint I mean run as fast as I could after 20kms of running already (which was probably pretty slow compared to some!). I also decided I would count (in my head of course, out loud would just be plain rude!) the amount of people I passed... The total was 14 people... BOOM! Haha.
I got to use my Garmin which was the best part of the whole race. It helped me with my pacing and then the best part was hooking it up to Garmin Connect after the event to see all of my stats and details of the race. My average pace was 5:36mins/km. My final finishing time was 1:58:29. Rather happy with that indeed.
This is a really great event to do. It's a reasonably fast course as the last 14kms are pretty much flat or downhill with the odd small up hill in there. It is also a great day out. We stayed afterwards and had a picnic in the domain while waiting for the prizegiving where, true to form I did not win a thing, but it was a really lovely day out with the family and friends.
Loved running the race, and loved being able to celebrate with these superstars at the finish. A great day all round!
Because of the last two weeks, I decided that I wouldn't have a time goal and that all I wanted to do was to finish it and enjoy it and not die. Check! I was also happy to be doing it with these wonderful ladies who were all running their first halves:
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| At the start line. Super proud of these babes! |
I started out behind the two hour pacer and was following behind her until about 12kms where I caught up to her. At around 14kms I overtook her and felt like I was happy to pick up the pace some more. With about 500m to go I decided I was just going to nail it to the finish line. Ok, so by nail it I mean sprint and by sprint I mean run as fast as I could after 20kms of running already (which was probably pretty slow compared to some!). I also decided I would count (in my head of course, out loud would just be plain rude!) the amount of people I passed... The total was 14 people... BOOM! Haha.
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| Sprinting towards the finish, not aware of the camera or I would have donned my best running pose instead of looking a tad special. |
This is a really great event to do. It's a reasonably fast course as the last 14kms are pretty much flat or downhill with the odd small up hill in there. It is also a great day out. We stayed afterwards and had a picnic in the domain while waiting for the prizegiving where, true to form I did not win a thing, but it was a really lovely day out with the family and friends.
Loved running the race, and loved being able to celebrate with these superstars at the finish. A great day all round!
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| This was us at the finish - bare feet never felt so good! |
Friday, 15 November 2013
My body has been on strike and I'm racing tomorrow...
As you know, I ran a marathon just under two weeks ago. In the lead up to the marathon I was uber zealous and in 'that happy running place' so thought I would sign up to the Kerikeri half marathon two weeks after it (the marathon). So this race is tomorrow.
Since the marathon my body seems to have gone on strike. I got a pretty bad ankle injury - which I am guessing is an overuse injury - and I got laryngitis and was a bit sick for a week. I did not get sick or injured my whole 4 months of training and then the week or two after the marathon my body seems to have just had enough. Needless to say, the only exercise I have done over the last two weeks is a few walks and two swims. Eek!
Anyway. I have still decided to stagger run the half tomorrow. I have no idea how it will go and I have no expectations of myself but I am looking forward to it. My only goal for tomorrow is to enjoy it!
So here I go, off to run what will very likely be my last race of 2013, tomorrow. Can't wait!
Since the marathon my body seems to have gone on strike. I got a pretty bad ankle injury - which I am guessing is an overuse injury - and I got laryngitis and was a bit sick for a week. I did not get sick or injured my whole 4 months of training and then the week or two after the marathon my body seems to have just had enough. Needless to say, the only exercise I have done over the last two weeks is a few walks and two swims. Eek!
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| I guess that's what you could call all the couch sitting I have been doing lately. |
So here I go, off to run what will very likely be my last race of 2013, tomorrow. Can't wait!
Anyone else racing this weekend?
Does your body ever go on strike after an event (or just anytime)?
Saturday, 9 November 2013
Dear Anonymous, You Rock My World!
Yesterday I received one of the best gifts a runner could ever receive...
A GARMIN FORERUNNER 10!!! From someone named Anonymous...
Here is the story:
About a month ago I received a comment on a blog post asking what colour Forerunner 10 I liked best. Naturally, I replied. The thought did cross my mind about whether someone may be wanting to buy me one (since I dropped enough hints for it), although I mostly suspected this probably wasn't the case and that most likely it wasmy husband someone playing a joke on me.
Then yesterday, I was casually sitting on my couch at home after a day at work and the postie rocks up with a box that was labelled Wiggle.com - FYI this is one of the BEST websites to buy running, cycling and swimming gear for GREAT prices!
My heart started to jump as I knew straight away what it was. And surely enough, when I opened it up a beautiful shiny new green Garmin FR10 was smiling out at me... I know you love my poetry!
Anonymous, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know you were probably hoping it would arrive in time for my marathon last weekend since I noticed the postage date was 17th Oct. However, there will be many an opportunity for me to get some VERY good use out of this, so don't be disheartened. You have made myweek year!
The sad news... I am currently injured at the moment and can barely walk, let alone run, so will have to wait another week or so until I can actually get out and use this bad boy. It is killing me! I am actually just wearing it around the house because I so badly want to be using it. It is the best toy ever.
And the moral of this blog post people: Always drop hints about what things you want! So here is my list for all you other readers out there (and now I am dreaming a lot bigger):
A GARMIN FORERUNNER 10!!! From someone named Anonymous...
Here is the story:
About a month ago I received a comment on a blog post asking what colour Forerunner 10 I liked best. Naturally, I replied. The thought did cross my mind about whether someone may be wanting to buy me one (since I dropped enough hints for it), although I mostly suspected this probably wasn't the case and that most likely it was
Then yesterday, I was casually sitting on my couch at home after a day at work and the postie rocks up with a box that was labelled Wiggle.com - FYI this is one of the BEST websites to buy running, cycling and swimming gear for GREAT prices!
My heart started to jump as I knew straight away what it was. And surely enough, when I opened it up a beautiful shiny new green Garmin FR10 was smiling out at me... I know you love my poetry!
Anonymous, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I know you were probably hoping it would arrive in time for my marathon last weekend since I noticed the postage date was 17th Oct. However, there will be many an opportunity for me to get some VERY good use out of this, so don't be disheartened. You have made my
The sad news... I am currently injured at the moment and can barely walk, let alone run, so will have to wait another week or so until I can actually get out and use this bad boy. It is killing me! I am actually just wearing it around the house because I so badly want to be using it. It is the best toy ever.
And the moral of this blog post people: Always drop hints about what things you want! So here is my list for all you other readers out there (and now I am dreaming a lot bigger):
- A trip to Hawaii
- An Audi
- An iPad
- And i'll throw in a new boat for the hubby too - got to keep everyone happy.
Have you ever received an anonymous gift? What was it?
Best part of your week this week?
Monday, 4 November 2013
Auckland Marathon Race recap
I did it! Marathon number 3 done and dusted. Here are some highlights from my weekend and the recap of the marathon.
Saturday we headed down to Auckland to peruse the race expo - I always love me a good expo all about running!
And to have a lunch with these lovely ladies - fellow runners and bloggers:
It was a 6.10am start - this is way too early if you ask me but then it's nice not to be running in the real heat of the day. I slept terribly the night before because my alarm was set forthe middle of the night 3.45am (what the heck!?!) and I didn't want to miss it. I haven't been up at that time of the night since I had a new born!
We wanted to be all ready to get to the start in case there were traffic delays, and for the all important last minute toilet stops. At the house, before leaving, because of all my nerves, I had a few issues with (ahem) my tummy. I didn't think anything of it at the time, just that it was nerves. Turns out that because of that I didn't really have much in the tank to run on... But I will get to that.
It was a glorious morning, such a beautiful sunrise and the start is at the most gorgeous spot on the waterfront in Devonport.
I was wanting to start with the 4.15 pace group as this was my goal. Well my goal was really just to beat my PB of 4:19, but with how well my training went I thought I would be on track to run a 4:15 no worries. Something must have happened last minute and I never saw a 4:15 pacer so just went off my Garmin for my pace. Right from the very beginning my stomach did just not feel that great. I think it was too empty and, despite all the hydrating I did the WHOLE week before, I continually felt thirsty and dehydrated. Eek!
Heading over the bridge was amazing, the weather was perfect (hot, but still great) and the view was awesome. I was on track for my 4:15.
I hit the half way mark at 2:09, 3 minutes slower than I should be for 4:15, but that's ok, there are no hills in the second half so I should be able to hold this pace. The turn around point was at just over 31kms. This is the hardest part I think. It feels like it just takes forever to get to that turn around and the whole time you're watching runners going back the other way wishing like heck it was you!
But I got there and then I was on the home straight. I got to the turn around in 3hrs 15. I was a bit gutted because I knew I was out of reach for a 4:15 and probably even a PB but I was still confident I could get in around 4:20 which I would have been happy with. Then at around 34kms I hit a small wall. Not the wall, but perhaps just a little fence. I needed fuel, and bad. I just had no desire whatsoever to take my gels. Just the thought of thick sugary goo just made me feel queasy so I stuck it out to the drink station where I had powerade or coke (who would have thought coke was so awesome in a marathon, I hate it any other time!) and water - plenty of water!
I kept on at a very sluggish pace, but I was running all the same. Then I really hit the wall at around 37kms. This is also where I lost the 4:30 pacer - gutted again! I knew there was only 5.2 kms to go but boy was I struggling. I wanted to cry, like seriously. What am I, a girl!?
I run/walked until around 39kms where I told myself I just needed to man up and get to the finish so I could stop! I saw Tim at 40kms and he ran with me to the finish. I was so sore by this point and my mind had given up, if he wasn't with me I don't know if I would have run that whole way so I was very thankful to see him and have his encouragement.
I finished in 4:37:08. And still beat the 4:30 pacer... Say whaaat!? I am so happy I finished it and I am happy with that time (now). I actually felt really terrible at the end and ended up having to lie on the nearest patch of grass for a while before I felt ok to get up. Haha. Once I got over feeling so ill and the fact that I felt like my time didn't reflect how well I trained, I actually was really happy to have done it and in that time. And hey, it's a course PB!
I am really proud of myself for my accomplishment only 8 months after having a baby. It's not a PB but it sure is a damn fine achievement. Heck, a marathon is a marathon and not all races will be best ones but I am sure there will be plenty more where that came from :)
And the best part about the finish? Having this guy there to celebrate with:
Thanks to all you lovely people who supported me and encouraged me through this whole journey. The last 4 months have been awesome!
Saturday we headed down to Auckland to peruse the race expo - I always love me a good expo all about running!
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| Free smoothies - Yusss! |
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| A future runner? This dude LOVED the expo! |
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| So awesome to hang with a great group of girls as crazy about running (and blogging) as I am :) |
From left:
Me
Michelle from Run Kiwi Run
Vera from Super Generic Girl
Sheryll from Run to the Mountains
Jody from Kreachr's Little Corner
Check these awesome runners and bloggers out. I had a blast with them at lunch!
The rest of Saturday involved some serious prep (making sure everything was ready as I knew my brain would be off until at least 10kms into the run) and some serious relaxing.
Race Day:
It was a 6.10am start - this is way too early if you ask me but then it's nice not to be running in the real heat of the day. I slept terribly the night before because my alarm was set for
We wanted to be all ready to get to the start in case there were traffic delays, and for the all important last minute toilet stops. At the house, before leaving, because of all my nerves, I had a few issues with (ahem) my tummy. I didn't think anything of it at the time, just that it was nerves. Turns out that because of that I didn't really have much in the tank to run on... But I will get to that.
It was a glorious morning, such a beautiful sunrise and the start is at the most gorgeous spot on the waterfront in Devonport.
I was wanting to start with the 4.15 pace group as this was my goal. Well my goal was really just to beat my PB of 4:19, but with how well my training went I thought I would be on track to run a 4:15 no worries. Something must have happened last minute and I never saw a 4:15 pacer so just went off my Garmin for my pace. Right from the very beginning my stomach did just not feel that great. I think it was too empty and, despite all the hydrating I did the WHOLE week before, I continually felt thirsty and dehydrated. Eek!
Heading over the bridge was amazing, the weather was perfect (hot, but still great) and the view was awesome. I was on track for my 4:15.
I hit the half way mark at 2:09, 3 minutes slower than I should be for 4:15, but that's ok, there are no hills in the second half so I should be able to hold this pace. The turn around point was at just over 31kms. This is the hardest part I think. It feels like it just takes forever to get to that turn around and the whole time you're watching runners going back the other way wishing like heck it was you!
But I got there and then I was on the home straight. I got to the turn around in 3hrs 15. I was a bit gutted because I knew I was out of reach for a 4:15 and probably even a PB but I was still confident I could get in around 4:20 which I would have been happy with. Then at around 34kms I hit a small wall. Not the wall, but perhaps just a little fence. I needed fuel, and bad. I just had no desire whatsoever to take my gels. Just the thought of thick sugary goo just made me feel queasy so I stuck it out to the drink station where I had powerade or coke (who would have thought coke was so awesome in a marathon, I hate it any other time!) and water - plenty of water!
I kept on at a very sluggish pace, but I was running all the same. Then I really hit the wall at around 37kms. This is also where I lost the 4:30 pacer - gutted again! I knew there was only 5.2 kms to go but boy was I struggling. I wanted to cry, like seriously. What am I, a girl!?
I run/walked until around 39kms where I told myself I just needed to man up and get to the finish so I could stop! I saw Tim at 40kms and he ran with me to the finish. I was so sore by this point and my mind had given up, if he wasn't with me I don't know if I would have run that whole way so I was very thankful to see him and have his encouragement.
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| The finish is in sight! |
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| My best supporter! |
I am really proud of myself for my accomplishment only 8 months after having a baby. It's not a PB but it sure is a damn fine achievement. Heck, a marathon is a marathon and not all races will be best ones but I am sure there will be plenty more where that came from :)
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| He just wanted to get his hands (and gums) on that medal - he is totally going to be a runner! |
Wednesday, 30 October 2013
How to prepare for a marathon: The week before
The week leading up to a marathon is a mixed bag of emotions. It's the week for you to get all your affairs in order. Oh, by this I don't actually mean go out and get an up-to-date will
(hopefully you won't be needing to do that, that is), but I mean make
sure you are fully prepared - mentally, physically, and any other way you can be.
Here are few pieces of advice to help you get through that week and to prepare for the all-consuming marathon:
1. Get your gear sorted:
Know what you are going to be wearing, make sure it's clean, ironed, pressed, groomed, whatever it is you need to do for your gear, DO IT!
If I am travelling for a race I always take two of everything, just in case. Two sports bras, two pairs of socks, two tops, two bottoms - usually one for cooler weather and one for warmer weather. If it is going to be warm I'll wear shorts, if it is cooler I'll wear tights. Boom!
2. Have all your fuel sorted:
The old 'never try anything new on race day' is molto importante when it comes to fuel. You want to know that what you are taking/using won't upset your tummy or make you feel terrible. And make sure you know how you are going to carry your fuel or where people will be along the course to dish out the gels/gummy bears/bananas or whatever it is you use.
3. Know exactly what time you need to be at the start line (the absolute latest you would want to be arriving), and therefore what time you will be needing to get up and leave the house/accommodation. Plan in things like needing to use the loo before you begin, warm ups, getting in the right pace group/corral. The last thing you want is to be missing the starting gun!
4. Know what you will eat the morning of the run and have it all readily accessible.
My race on Sunday starts at 6.10am so I'll practically be getting up in thefreakin middle of the night! This means I will lay out all my breakfast things the night before and any drinks I will want to be having. Make sure you hydrate well the night before and morning before the race, particularly if it is going to be hot weather.
5. Carbo loading in the week leading up to the event:
This is many an athlete's favourite part of the training, the eating! It is definitely one of the perks of being a runner for me! But don't go crazy. Carbo loading does not mean you need to eat 5 bowls of pasta, 3 whole garlic breads, 10 donuts and 5 litres of powerade a day. NO! You do not want to get to the start line feeling heavy and sluggish!
It just means that you need to make sure you are getting in a good amount of carbs in your bigger meals (breaky, lunch and dinner) to stock up on your glycogen stores - about 25% more carbs than usual (my awesome friend told me that one today). Save the binge feed for after the marathon when you well and truly deserve to eat whatever the heck you like!
6. Be on your mental game. Prepare mentally:
The last 2-4 months (or however long you trained for) was the physical prep, now this week is for the mental prep. You have done all the hard work, put in the hours, the sweat, the tears, and maybe even some blood, and a few injuries to boot. So now is the time to get your head in the game. If you are anything like me, in the week(s) leading up to the marathon your head is a minefield. All the doubt starts creeping in and you are planning for a worst-case-scenario. DON'T DO THIS!
You know you can do it, you know you have trained well. I am all about the self-talk. I know it sounds lame and nerdy but it seriously helps! I will quote scriptures to myself, remind myself Iam awesome have trained the best I could and that I am strong, fit and a good runner. I am a firm believer in this quote, as I have posted many times before:
And last but not least, here are two reminders for you (and me):
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| That's right folks, preparation! |
1. Get your gear sorted:
Know what you are going to be wearing, make sure it's clean, ironed, pressed, groomed, whatever it is you need to do for your gear, DO IT!
If I am travelling for a race I always take two of everything, just in case. Two sports bras, two pairs of socks, two tops, two bottoms - usually one for cooler weather and one for warmer weather. If it is going to be warm I'll wear shorts, if it is cooler I'll wear tights. Boom!
2. Have all your fuel sorted:
The old 'never try anything new on race day' is molto importante when it comes to fuel. You want to know that what you are taking/using won't upset your tummy or make you feel terrible. And make sure you know how you are going to carry your fuel or where people will be along the course to dish out the gels/gummy bears/bananas or whatever it is you use.
3. Know exactly what time you need to be at the start line (the absolute latest you would want to be arriving), and therefore what time you will be needing to get up and leave the house/accommodation. Plan in things like needing to use the loo before you begin, warm ups, getting in the right pace group/corral. The last thing you want is to be missing the starting gun!
4. Know what you will eat the morning of the run and have it all readily accessible.
My race on Sunday starts at 6.10am so I'll practically be getting up in the
5. Carbo loading in the week leading up to the event:
This is many an athlete's favourite part of the training, the eating! It is definitely one of the perks of being a runner for me! But don't go crazy. Carbo loading does not mean you need to eat 5 bowls of pasta, 3 whole garlic breads, 10 donuts and 5 litres of powerade a day. NO! You do not want to get to the start line feeling heavy and sluggish!
It just means that you need to make sure you are getting in a good amount of carbs in your bigger meals (breaky, lunch and dinner) to stock up on your glycogen stores - about 25% more carbs than usual (my awesome friend told me that one today). Save the binge feed for after the marathon when you well and truly deserve to eat whatever the heck you like!
6. Be on your mental game. Prepare mentally:
The last 2-4 months (or however long you trained for) was the physical prep, now this week is for the mental prep. You have done all the hard work, put in the hours, the sweat, the tears, and maybe even some blood, and a few injuries to boot. So now is the time to get your head in the game. If you are anything like me, in the week(s) leading up to the marathon your head is a minefield. All the doubt starts creeping in and you are planning for a worst-case-scenario. DON'T DO THIS!
You know you can do it, you know you have trained well. I am all about the self-talk. I know it sounds lame and nerdy but it seriously helps! I will quote scriptures to myself, remind myself I
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| Thought I'd throw this one in there too, for good measure |
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| My all time favourite! |
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| My marathon goal right thur! |
Anyone else racing this weekend?
Any good tips for the week before a big race?
Favourite quote, verse or mantra that you repeat over and over?
Go here to check out an article I wrote called '10 reasons why people run marathons' for a bit of humour.
Tuesday, 22 October 2013
Beaten by a door and free race entry to giveaway...
Last weekend I had a relaxed 22kms planned. My running buddy lives just around the road from me (so convenient) and we always meet at the same time and same place for our long runs. I am always the one that gets there a minute or two late - although I always say I am just allowing her some warm up/stretch time because I am such a kind and thoughtful friend.
This Saturday, however, I was more than a couple of minutes late. Just as I was about to get changed and head out the door I had a weeeee accident...
Yip, I walked into the door. Blonde much? And not actually just the door, but the corner of the door. And yip, it hurt! It makes me shudder to think about it now. It was so hard and crazy sore! The stupidest thing ever, I was laughing and crying at the same time because of how much it hurt and how silly it was.
Anyway, moving along now...
Once I got on the road I managed to forget about the throbbing pain in my head, right in behind my eye, and actually enjoyed the run. I ended up running for 22kms and walking the last 2km home.
I am so excited to be on the downhill to the marathon now. Less than two weeks to go and I am feeling great. All the hard work has been done, now I am just on cruise/taper mode til the big day. I have been thinking about the goals I want to set for race day but have not completely decided on them yet so there will be a post about those coming very soon.
On another note, I also did a whole bunch of baking this weekend for some random people in my hood. It was great fun and I really enjoyed being back on the baking wagon for a few hours.
I am so excited about my upcoming marathon that I decided to go ahead and register for another race... Only two weeks after the marathon. Yikes! I certainly have 'the bug'. I am still a little nervous as to whether I will be able to (or should) run a half marathon so soon after a marathon but I think I will be fine and worst case scenario would mean I walk for a bit (or a lot). No biggie.
So I registered for this half marathon and I also have a free entry to give away. All you have to do is leave a comment here on the blog, or here on my facebook page letting me know that you have entered the race and you will be in the draw to win the cost of your ticket back. That is a bonus and $49-$67 that can go towards my Christmas present. Thanks, you are too kind :)
Entries for the half close 10th November, and early bird entries (cheaper price) close 27th Oct - this coming Sunday. Get in quick people, it is an AWESOME race.
This Saturday, however, I was more than a couple of minutes late. Just as I was about to get changed and head out the door I had a weeeee accident...
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| Door 1, Rachel 0 |
Anyway, moving along now...
Once I got on the road I managed to forget about the throbbing pain in my head, right in behind my eye, and actually enjoyed the run. I ended up running for 22kms and walking the last 2km home.
I am so excited to be on the downhill to the marathon now. Less than two weeks to go and I am feeling great. All the hard work has been done, now I am just on cruise/taper mode til the big day. I have been thinking about the goals I want to set for race day but have not completely decided on them yet so there will be a post about those coming very soon.
On another note, I also did a whole bunch of baking this weekend for some random people in my hood. It was great fun and I really enjoyed being back on the baking wagon for a few hours.
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| Some of the treats I whipped up |
So I registered for this half marathon and I also have a free entry to give away. All you have to do is leave a comment here on the blog, or here on my facebook page letting me know that you have entered the race and you will be in the draw to win the cost of your ticket back. That is a bonus and $49-$67 that can go towards my Christmas present. Thanks, you are too kind :)
Entries for the half close 10th November, and early bird entries (cheaper price) close 27th Oct - this coming Sunday. Get in quick people, it is an AWESOME race.
Anyone else ever been beaten up by a door, some stairs, a wall or the like?
Anyone else racing soon? Running a full or half marathon?
Any bakers out there? Do you bake for yourself or to give away as treats?
Monday, 14 October 2013
Taper Time Tips
I recently read this incredibly true article from Runners World about pre race anxiety and tapering.
On Saturday I ran my longest distance for my training plan, 35kms. I had an awesome friend who lent me her Garmin for the run, which I just LOVED!
The exciting thing about doing your longest run in your training is that once it is done it means it is time for the taper. For non runners (or runners who haven't cottoned on to the lingo yet) the taper is the couple of weeks before the marathon where your running distances get less and less. The purpose of the taper, as mentioned in the above article is:
Although taper time can be exciting, what else can tend to happen during taper time, as also mentioned in the article, is as follows:
The things I often tend to do during my taper are all the things this article tells you not to:
On Saturday I ran my longest distance for my training plan, 35kms. I had an awesome friend who lent me her Garmin for the run, which I just LOVED!
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| It actually was 35kms, I just had forgotten to un-pause the watch after a toilet stop... Oops! |
The value of scaling back—muscle fibers heal, extra glycogen (or fuel) is stored, the immune system rebounds.It's generally 2-3 weeks leading up to the marathon where you want to slowly be decreasing mileage. So over the next 3 weeks I will still be doing my 3 key runs, just shorter distances. Yay!
Although taper time can be exciting, what else can tend to happen during taper time, as also mentioned in the article, is as follows:
Ask runners what the most challenging part of training is, and many will say the taper. Indeed, anxiety, panic, and crankiness often come along with decreased mileage leading up to a race. Olympic Marathon gold medalist Joan Benoit Samuelson called it "PMS: Pre-Marathon Syndrome." When you've grown accustomed to pushing hard and enjoying the endorphin buzz that follows, tapering can make you feel like an addict going through withdrawal.Too true! I think it's hilarious how it is called "PMS" - this is spot on! I find the taper time exciting as it means I have done all the hard work and now I am on the downhill slope to my final goal, however I also find it hard. Since I have just done almost 4 months of training I am feeling at my fittest, my best. So to scale down the running when I am finally feeling like I am just sooo ready for this is tough! It is something that I have to tell myself often is 'for the best for my body and mind'. So please excuse me if I am a little PMS-ish over the next 3 weeks, I am tapering!
The things I often tend to do during my taper are all the things this article tells you not to:
Don't: Unleash the crazy on others - GUILTY (Sorry Tim!)If you tend to be like me and go a bit cray cray during taper time, read this article to find out how to fix these don'ts.
Don't: Spend your downtime fixating on one ambitious, stress-inducing goal - GUILTY
Don't: Eat, breathe, sleep running - GUILTY
Don't: Binge on carbs - OK, so I'm not too guilty of this one but the temptation is always there!
Do you go a bit cray cray during taper time?
Do you enjoy tapering?
Are you guilty of any of these things?
Friday, 4 October 2013
The ultimate motivation, running catch ups and fuelling like a BOSS...
A few of you may have already seen this clip already but if you haven't, you NEED to check it out. Here is the ultimate motivational clip:
The last couple of weeks have been great for training. My speed sessions are getting better and better, I am feeling a lot fitter and am running my repeats at a faster speed, which I LOVE!
I have been quite slack with my cross training lately but have been running 4 times a week. It is hard to fit all the things in that I would like to with having a baby but I am really happy with everything that I am managing all the same. I have even been doing my core and some leg workouts in the evenings in front of the TV.
With it being Spring now I have also loved getting out on the road every chance I get to run in this beautiful weather. I have been taking Fletch for a few more buggy runs again now that it is warming up too. He loves it, I love it, we all win. I really love spring, it is such a beautiful season and it brings all the promises of summer ahead... YAY!
Last Saturday I did a 32km run and it was gorgeous but soooo HOT! I took it nice and slow but finished feeling good. I think it was because I fueled like a BOSS the night before that got me through it. My pizza and wine that I had the night before at my girls' dinner really did the trick... Perhaps i had better work on my nutrition if I want to be a better runner... Eek! (Please excuse my terrible phone photography):
This is my next bit of fuel for tomorrow's long run... I know, I take this carb loading thing to a whole new level!
Although I am sure I will have a bite or two of this delicious morsel, I must add that I actually bought this for my hubs. The chunks in it are actually pineapple lumps which are his fave. And it was only $3... I still can't believe it. It would have been plain wrong to NOT have bought it.
Tomorrow I have a shorter long run planned of about 25ish kms (give or take - I am a bit more relaxed about this one as we will be away). The following week will be my last long run of about 34kms and then it is TAPER TIME!! Woah, the countdown really is on now! Less than a month to go!
P.S. If you are new to running (or not but still like a good read) then Amanda over at The Lady Okie Blog is doing a series called 'How to Start Running'. She has some awesome tips, advice and fun stories and I feature in her latest post, part two. Follow the link above and go check it out! YEOW!!
The last couple of weeks have been great for training. My speed sessions are getting better and better, I am feeling a lot fitter and am running my repeats at a faster speed, which I LOVE!
I have been quite slack with my cross training lately but have been running 4 times a week. It is hard to fit all the things in that I would like to with having a baby but I am really happy with everything that I am managing all the same. I have even been doing my core and some leg workouts in the evenings in front of the TV.
With it being Spring now I have also loved getting out on the road every chance I get to run in this beautiful weather. I have been taking Fletch for a few more buggy runs again now that it is warming up too. He loves it, I love it, we all win. I really love spring, it is such a beautiful season and it brings all the promises of summer ahead... YAY!
Last Saturday I did a 32km run and it was gorgeous but soooo HOT! I took it nice and slow but finished feeling good. I think it was because I fueled like a BOSS the night before that got me through it. My pizza and wine that I had the night before at my girls' dinner really did the trick... Perhaps i had better work on my nutrition if I want to be a better runner... Eek! (Please excuse my terrible phone photography):
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| This is a metre long pizza with three different toppings - my happy place! |
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| Love running along the water front on a beautiful sunny day |
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| I'm going to need a REALLY big cup of tea to dunk this bad boy! |
Tomorrow I have a shorter long run planned of about 25ish kms (give or take - I am a bit more relaxed about this one as we will be away). The following week will be my last long run of about 34kms and then it is TAPER TIME!! Woah, the countdown really is on now! Less than a month to go!
P.S. If you are new to running (or not but still like a good read) then Amanda over at The Lady Okie Blog is doing a series called 'How to Start Running'. She has some awesome tips, advice and fun stories and I feature in her latest post, part two. Follow the link above and go check it out! YEOW!!
How do you fuel for your long runs?
Favourite cookie?
Mine would have to be a good old home made choc chunk and oat cookie
Favourite season to run?
Mine is def Spring as summer can just get a wee bit too hot
Wednesday, 25 September 2013
Bad habits and my marathon countdown goals...
I was reading this post by Runner's World today about 10 bad habits of runners and found that I was guilty of a few too many, and here they are (plus a couple that I am actually good at)...
Ignoring your core:
I have been rather terrible at strength training this time around, particularly my core. It is really important for runners to have strong cores, and this should especially be an area of focus after having a baby. I have never had the strongest core before a baby and now, even 7 months later, there is still way too much weakness and jiggle going on around my mid section. It's not pretty!
Starting a race too fast:
This was one of my mistakes from last weekend's race. I get all ambitious and excited at the start and instead of trying to set my own pace, I just follow the crowd. Oops! GPS watches are great for helping if you tend to have this problem too - another reason I need one NOW!
Being your own doctor:
Totally guilty!! Doctor Google and Doctor Rachel are frequent collaborators in running injuries (as well as other things!).
"Runners tend to be hyperaware of their bodies, self-medicating with ice or ibuprofen to treat aches and pains. But minor injuries could turn into serious ones. Instead, see a doctor sooner rather than later. If the pain has lingered for three days, schedule an appointment."
Fixing it all:
Habits I actually am not that bad at:
Skipping stretching:
Thankfully I am quite good at stretching now... Most of the time. This is a really important thing that you want to make a GOOD habit.
That's about all I can think of for now, so now it's time for me to go and work my core! Yikes!
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| I think this is quite true and relative to running (source) |
Ignoring your core:
I have been rather terrible at strength training this time around, particularly my core. It is really important for runners to have strong cores, and this should especially be an area of focus after having a baby. I have never had the strongest core before a baby and now, even 7 months later, there is still way too much weakness and jiggle going on around my mid section. It's not pretty!
Starting a race too fast:
This was one of my mistakes from last weekend's race. I get all ambitious and excited at the start and instead of trying to set my own pace, I just follow the crowd. Oops! GPS watches are great for helping if you tend to have this problem too - another reason I need one NOW!
Being your own doctor:
Totally guilty!! Doctor Google and Doctor Rachel are frequent collaborators in running injuries (as well as other things!).
"Runners tend to be hyperaware of their bodies, self-medicating with ice or ibuprofen to treat aches and pains. But minor injuries could turn into serious ones. Instead, see a doctor sooner rather than later. If the pain has lingered for three days, schedule an appointment."
Fixing it all:
"There's
plenty of advice on how
to become a better runner, but try to focus on what's manageable." I
really need to remember this one! I often can become guilty of trying to
fix everything in my running instead of focussing on one thing at a
time, thus the reason for the below goals.
Habits I actually am not that bad at:
Skipping stretching:
Thankfully I am quite good at stretching now... Most of the time. This is a really important thing that you want to make a GOOD habit.
Not getting enough zzzz's.
Well this is pretty much just par for the course when you have a new baby but thankfully we have an awesome sleeper so if it does become a problem for me, it's either my own fault or just a wee phase Fletch is going through. I definitely need lots of sleep though so tend to feel it if I haven't had enough.
So because there are only 5.5 weeks (38 days to be exact!) until my marathon I thought I should set some goals for these last few weeks. It's never too late right??
Goals:
1. Work on my core - It's not like I don't know that I need to do this, or how to do it, it's just that I am lazy... Time to stop and time to get my abs working. Aaargh! Goodbye Mummy tummy!
2. Keep stretching - You can never stretch too much... Can you?
3. Be wise with fuelling and resting - Make sure I have a good balance of carbs and protein to reful after runs, as well as gels during long runs. Rest, well you don't need to remind me twice about that one!
Goals:
1. Work on my core - It's not like I don't know that I need to do this, or how to do it, it's just that I am lazy... Time to stop and time to get my abs working. Aaargh! Goodbye Mummy tummy!
2. Keep stretching - You can never stretch too much... Can you?
3. Be wise with fuelling and resting - Make sure I have a good balance of carbs and protein to reful after runs, as well as gels during long runs. Rest, well you don't need to remind me twice about that one!
That's about all I can think of for now, so now it's time for me to go and work my core! Yikes!
Which of these are your bad habits? Which are your good ones?
Are you good at working your core?
What's your favourite post race fuel?
Mine is a green smoothie - a good mix of carbs and protein.
Monday, 23 September 2013
Whangarei Half Marathon Race Recap...
Going into this half marathon I didn't really have a goal, I wanted to use it as a run to gauge where I was at for my marathon training. However, in saying I didn't have a goal I did still want to run my best and do as well as I could. During the run I decided that I really wanted to finish in under two hours and I thought I could.
On Saturday night there was one of the biggest, craziest and scariest thunder storms I think I have ever seen/heard/felt in my entire life! It was crazy! At about midnight we were woken up by the biggest blast of thunder imaginable. It was crazy! I got such a fright that I was shaking. The lightening was the most amazing sight but the thunder was scarily loud - it even shook our windows!!
So all while this was going on and it was absolutely bucketing down with rain I was lying there thinking that this half marathon would be cancelled.. There is no way we can run in weather like this, I thought.
Also, I could not believe that my baby slept the WHOLE way through the WHOLE storm, which lasted over an hour (I think). I actually had to check he was ok!
Alas, the next morning when I woke at around 6ish the birds were chirping away and the sun was making its way up into the sky for the day. It was the most beautiful day we had had in a long time. In fact, it was a typically beautiful and warm sunny Spring's day. Wow! I was so happy that the run would not be cancelled and that I wouldn't be running in the pouring rain. But this beautiful day also meant another thing... It was CRAY CRAY hot for the run!
After picking up my running buddy we got to the start with plenty of time, always a bonus. At the start line they had some fitness instructors to take us through a booty shakin' warm up which was really fun. Then we were off! I find that in events like this you tend to start a bit faster than you like as you are all in a big pack with the fast runners at the front who tend to set the pace. My first three kms were done much faster than they should have been, at just over 5mins/km, but then I finally settled into my own pace about 4kms in.
I hit the 12km mark at just over an hour where I saw Tim, my Dad and my friend's hubby. It's always great to see supporters along the course.
At around 14kms we had two hills - one quite long and the other quite steep. By then the heat was really getting up there and it had gotten to me so the steep hill killed me! The 2 hour pacer caught up to me just after this hill and I was gutted! I thought I was well ahead of him. So from 15kms to about 18kms I managed to stay with him. Then I stopped at a drink station for water, which I desperately needed, and he got a bit ahead of me. I thought he was running quite fast because according to my watch I may still make sub 2 hours, just. I caught up to him a bit more and then the last 1.1kms I was on my own. I just couldn't hold his pace. He finished about 50-100m ahead of me but I was really happy to see my time when I crossed the finish line being 1:59:16... YAY! I had made the sub 2. I knew that pacer was going fast! But now I think it was a good thing as it kept me on my toes and going just a bit faster than I may have otherwise.
Tim didn't quite make it in time to get a photo of me crossing the finish line as the traffic was being stopped for the runners, but he got there soon after. Fletch was asleep at my parents for most of the time I was running so we got some photos together when we arrived back there.
Overall, it was a great race and I am stoked to have gotten a sub 2 halfy only 7 months after having a baby. Yay! Now only 6 weeks til my marathon... YIKES!!
On Saturday night there was one of the biggest, craziest and scariest thunder storms I think I have ever seen/heard/felt in my entire life! It was crazy! At about midnight we were woken up by the biggest blast of thunder imaginable. It was crazy! I got such a fright that I was shaking. The lightening was the most amazing sight but the thunder was scarily loud - it even shook our windows!!
So all while this was going on and it was absolutely bucketing down with rain I was lying there thinking that this half marathon would be cancelled.. There is no way we can run in weather like this, I thought.
Also, I could not believe that my baby slept the WHOLE way through the WHOLE storm, which lasted over an hour (I think). I actually had to check he was ok!
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| Apparently so! |
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| It was mandatory for the stripes on our hats to match our shirts |
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| During the warm up |
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| Running along the waterfront just before the 12km mark |
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| I love free snacks and drinks at the end of a run! P.S. Red face much? |
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| The sweet life for a baby - still in his PJs |
Did you race this weekend or have a long run?
Do you love or hate thunderstorms?
Which do you prefer running in - cold weather or hot?
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