I wasn’t planning on running a marathon/ultra in July, I intended to take it easy all summer and give my body a good rest. BUT… Lake Youngs is a fun, relaxed course… Ric was playing in a tournament only 8 miles away… and I needed to long run on trails anyway to prepare for Haulin’ Aspen in August. My only reservation was that I didn’t want to spend all day out on the trail and miss Ric’s tournament, so I emailed the race director and asked about an early start. He emailed back saying I could start whenever I wanted: just keep track and let the race officials know my elapsed time when I passed through the aid station. (This is why I love ultras: everyone trusts that you will be honest and self-sufficient.)
I decided to start my run at 5 a.m. Last year I ran 2 hour laps so a 5 a.m. start would get me to the aid station right about the time of the official 7 a.m. start, making it easier for the timing crew and giving me a chance of meeting up with other runners. Race morning came and I was a little nervous when I pulled into the dark parking lot. Thankfully, I noticed a car was already there, and soon another pulled in. I dilly-dallied for a few minutes while I waited for the other runner to start… I had visions of running into a bear or cougar on the pre-dawn trail and thought it best to let another runner go first. I officially hit the trail at 5:15.
The first lap was incredible. I love listening to the forest wake up. Birds start singing. Quietly at first, then louder as their voices warm up. The morning was cool and drizzly, almost perfect weather for running. I covered the first 8 miles easily, but the last 2 seemed to go on for ever. I finally hit the end of the first 10 mile lap (and the aid station) just as the official start was underway. Lap 1 – 1:53. I took a few extra minutes at the aid station before heading out again. The mouth piece on my hydration bladder had started to leak, so I removed it from my pack and replaced it with a water bottle. Not as comfortable, but a least it wasn’t dripping all over my singlet. Once again I headed down the trail, this time electing to run counter-clockwise. I had only run this trail clockwise in the past, but the race director allowed your choice of directions after Lap 1 so I decided to give it a go. To my surprise, counter-clockwise seemed much easier. I completed Lap 2 in 1:50. After a quick bite to eat at the aid station I was out again. This time I chose to run counter-clockwise. I plugged in my ipod and let Madonna and Antonio Banderas (soundtrack from Evita) serenade me through my last lap. My last lap was as nice as my first, this race wasn’t nearly as difficult for me as last year. I finished lap 3 in 1:59. I debated for a few minutes on whether I wanted to stop at 3 laps, or run the 1.5 mile out-and-back to make it an official 50k. I elected to run the extra three miles, so down the trail I went one final time. I covered those 3 miles in exactly 27 minutes. Pretty good, I thought, for the final 3 miles of a 50k and that included one big hill in the last ½ mile. I finished a little before 11:30 a.m., hurried back to the hotel for a quick shower before heading to the ball park for a lazy afternoon. Final time: 6:09:00
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Sunday, June 8, 2008
North Olympic Discovery Marathon
I woke up on day two of my double feeling like my normal self - no unusual soreness or fatigue. I was a little amazed since I hadn't trained specifically for this double, I was running it on a whim after chatting with Little Leslie last weekend in Newport. The marathon was scheduled to begin at 9:00, rather late by marathon standards. Ric and I didn’t make it to Port Angeles in time to pick up my packet Saturday night so we walked to the start line an hour early to I could get my number and chip. The morning was cool, but after standing around for a few minutes, I decided to wear my black Marathon Maniac singlet and my yellow running skirt. Ric graciously took my long sleeve shirt back to the hotel for me.
I found Little Leslie at the start line. We had lots of unfinished business to talk about from Newport so we decided to run together for awhile. I was actually feeling really good, much better than day two of my double last year. We started slowly, especially since the NODM course starts uphill. As hard as it is, I think it’s a good thing because the heart and muscles get warmed up quickly. Before the first mile, we passed Ric on the sidelines. He waited on the course with my long sleeve shirt “just in case” I had changed my mind about wearing the singlet. I was really touched by that gesture: Ric is not a morning person and I’m sure he would rather have been in bed but he wanted to make sure I was OK.
The miles ticked away uneventfully. The weather was cool and overcast, but no rain. I was really feeling great and enjoying the very scenic course. I especially loved the sections where we passed through the rainforest on an elevated pathway. Leslie on the other hand was having a rough go. By mile 20 she was getting silly, mile 22 she was complaining about feeling like her blood sugar was messed up and we started taking frequent, long walk breaks. I still felt strong but decided I needed to stick with Leslie in case things went horribly wrong for her. She’s not the type to quit and I wanted to make sure she got to the finish line. I had originally hoped for a 4:30, but then decided beating my time from last year would be just fine, and beating my time from yesterday would be even better. Earlier in the race we had been talking about wildlife, and I mentioned how whenever I saw a Bald Eagle on my run, I knew it was going to be a successful day. Sure enough, at mile 24 as we ran alongside the beach, a Bald Eagle swooped down and flew along side of us. At that point, we both knew our goals would be met. We finished together in 4:47:34. A minute faster than yesterday and 6 minutes faster than last year.
So there we have it. 2 marathons in 2 days (over an hour faster than last year) - or 5 marathons in 5 weeks - or 3 marathons in 8 days. Anyway I look at it, it's a record streak for me and it will be hard to take a break. I now understand how Maniacs get sucked into running a marathon every weekend. It's addictive and actually easier than it appears.
I found Little Leslie at the start line. We had lots of unfinished business to talk about from Newport so we decided to run together for awhile. I was actually feeling really good, much better than day two of my double last year. We started slowly, especially since the NODM course starts uphill. As hard as it is, I think it’s a good thing because the heart and muscles get warmed up quickly. Before the first mile, we passed Ric on the sidelines. He waited on the course with my long sleeve shirt “just in case” I had changed my mind about wearing the singlet. I was really touched by that gesture: Ric is not a morning person and I’m sure he would rather have been in bed but he wanted to make sure I was OK.
The miles ticked away uneventfully. The weather was cool and overcast, but no rain. I was really feeling great and enjoying the very scenic course. I especially loved the sections where we passed through the rainforest on an elevated pathway. Leslie on the other hand was having a rough go. By mile 20 she was getting silly, mile 22 she was complaining about feeling like her blood sugar was messed up and we started taking frequent, long walk breaks. I still felt strong but decided I needed to stick with Leslie in case things went horribly wrong for her. She’s not the type to quit and I wanted to make sure she got to the finish line. I had originally hoped for a 4:30, but then decided beating my time from last year would be just fine, and beating my time from yesterday would be even better. Earlier in the race we had been talking about wildlife, and I mentioned how whenever I saw a Bald Eagle on my run, I knew it was going to be a successful day. Sure enough, at mile 24 as we ran alongside the beach, a Bald Eagle swooped down and flew along side of us. At that point, we both knew our goals would be met. We finished together in 4:47:34. A minute faster than yesterday and 6 minutes faster than last year.
So there we have it. 2 marathons in 2 days (over an hour faster than last year) - or 5 marathons in 5 weeks - or 3 marathons in 8 days. Anyway I look at it, it's a record streak for me and it will be hard to take a break. I now understand how Maniacs get sucked into running a marathon every weekend. It's addictive and actually easier than it appears.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Green River Marathon
The Green River Marathon is a favorite amongst Marathon Maniacs, more than likely because it’s a Maniac sponsored event, it’s local AND it’s free. The added appeal for me was that it ran along bike paths for ¾ of the distance…. bike paths that I have run segments of at various times and I was curious how they linked together. I had decided to take the early start so Ric and I could be on our way to Sequim early in the afternoon and prepare for race two of my double weekend.
It was cool on race morning, so I decided to wear my pink Brooks skirt, white singlet and a black RunderWear top. I also carried my hydration pack with a rain shell, plenty of gels and my phone. I knew there were supposed to be aid stations, but since it was a free event I decided to do my best to be self-supported. I felt well prepared, but the one thing I hadn’t counted on ended up being the most difficult part of the run for me: there were few course markers and no mile markers. It was difficult to gage my pace, so I just ran by feel. I thought I was doing well in spite of having to stop at stoplights and getting off course with a few other runners. At one point we were running through South Park (didn’t even know it existed) complete with junk yard dogs and gang symbols spray painted on the trail. I managed to catch up to a big guy running the marathon and stuck with him until we were clear of this questionable neighborhood. I was quite surprised when I hit the 20 mile aid station with 3:45 on my watch. I thought I was running faster than that and felt a little demoralized. When the trail finally emerged on Alki Beach a headwind hit. There was plenty of activity on the beach though, so my mind focused on the volleyball tournament and the outrigger races instead of the wind. My legs were tired but I could see the finish line on the horizon. Unfortunately it stayed on the horizon and it felt like I was making no forward progress. But, as all marathons do, the Green River Marathon eventually came to an end and I crossed the finish line in 4:48:10. 18 minutes slower than my goal time, but I still had fun and suspect the course was a tad long.
It was cool on race morning, so I decided to wear my pink Brooks skirt, white singlet and a black RunderWear top. I also carried my hydration pack with a rain shell, plenty of gels and my phone. I knew there were supposed to be aid stations, but since it was a free event I decided to do my best to be self-supported. I felt well prepared, but the one thing I hadn’t counted on ended up being the most difficult part of the run for me: there were few course markers and no mile markers. It was difficult to gage my pace, so I just ran by feel. I thought I was doing well in spite of having to stop at stoplights and getting off course with a few other runners. At one point we were running through South Park (didn’t even know it existed) complete with junk yard dogs and gang symbols spray painted on the trail. I managed to catch up to a big guy running the marathon and stuck with him until we were clear of this questionable neighborhood. I was quite surprised when I hit the 20 mile aid station with 3:45 on my watch. I thought I was running faster than that and felt a little demoralized. When the trail finally emerged on Alki Beach a headwind hit. There was plenty of activity on the beach though, so my mind focused on the volleyball tournament and the outrigger races instead of the wind. My legs were tired but I could see the finish line on the horizon. Unfortunately it stayed on the horizon and it felt like I was making no forward progress. But, as all marathons do, the Green River Marathon eventually came to an end and I crossed the finish line in 4:48:10. 18 minutes slower than my goal time, but I still had fun and suspect the course was a tad long.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Newport Marathon
The Newport Marathon was a comedy of errors. The trip down the Oregon Coast was good enough… excellent in fact. The weather was beautiful, we stopped in Tillamook to eat grilled cheese sandwiches and ice cream at the Tillamook Cheese Factory , and we made it to Newport in time to play on the beach before dinner. After a dinner of pizza, we all went to bed with the alarm set for 5:00. I told the family to sleep in and have fun at the beach. I’d call when I reached the finish line and we would meet up.
I woke up before the alarm, ate a light breakfast and slipped out the door while everyone slept. I drove to the finish line, boarded the bus for the start and commenced chatting with a few new maniacs. Once we arrived at the start line, I saw all of my favorite running friends and immediately fell into a big group conversation. Before I knew it, the race director was announcing “5 minutes until the start!”. I quickly made my way over to the sag wagon and checked my drop bag. Within a minute or two panic set in: I had forgotten to take my gels and electrolyte tablets out of my drop bag. I had no gel. On any other marathon that may not have been a problem, but the race directions clearly indicated gels only at mile 15, and only one per runner. That simply wasn’t enough to get through 26.2 miles, I usually need two and sometimes 4. That wasn’t my biggest worry, though. I didn’t have my electrolytes! After being cursed by leg cramps since the last Octobers Northface Challenge 50k, I finally had figured out THE formula. One tablet every 5 miles, then 2 at mile 20 if I needed it. Water and gel as necessary. I started to fret about what to do, then the gun went off and I was swept away on my journey to another marathon finish.
It just so happens that the course passed our hotel at mile 2. I thought briefly about stopping to get some gel out of the room, but didn’t. We passed the hotel again at mile 4. this time Mom was standing on the sidelines watching us pass and I decided a quick stop at the hotel may save me from walking the last 6 miles of the race. I grabbed the key from her, bolted to the elevator and down the hall to our room. Alec and Evan were in the hallway and took great pleasure in helping me search for gels. Of course there were none to be found, I had packed them all in my drop bag. Back down the hall I went and plunged down the stairwell, barefoot kids in jammies in hot pursuit. I reached the lobby door, gave them both a kiss and continued on my journey down Yaquina Bay. My watch indicated I had lost almost 6 minutes, (there goes my PR attempt). I was also in the back of the pack so I sped up a little, hoping to catch one of my slower Maniac friends. By mile 6 I caught Leslie Miller. Leslie is great fun and was my running angel on day two of my double last summer. I knew I’d need her inspiration again today so I decided to throw out any time goal and spend my hours with Leslie. We chatted about everything: mostly running, but also work, travel, relationships. I think we solved some of life’s major problems while out on the course. Maniac #3 tp!, tossed me a gel at mile 10. Leslie gave me a salt tablet at mile 12. My fears had vanished, I knew my friends would make sure I had what I needed. We reached the gel station at mile 15 and the volunteer gave me 3 gels. We passed the gel station again at mile 17 (the way back on this out-and-back course) and I was handed 2 more. I was the gel queen! I had ‘em stashed everywhere! We continued to lope along, ticking off the uneventful but beautiful miles. Soon we were crossing the finish line, getting our medals and looking for food. I called Mom and was told they were just settling down for lunch so I spent some time relishing the post-race glow with the main Maniacs. My time for marathon #26? 4:29 and it really isn’t important.
Oh, one little detail: Somewhere along the course I promised Leslie I would run the Green River/North Olympic Discovery Marathons with her next weekend. It’s time to rest up, eat lots of quality food and tackle marathons 27 and 28 in a few days.
I woke up before the alarm, ate a light breakfast and slipped out the door while everyone slept. I drove to the finish line, boarded the bus for the start and commenced chatting with a few new maniacs. Once we arrived at the start line, I saw all of my favorite running friends and immediately fell into a big group conversation. Before I knew it, the race director was announcing “5 minutes until the start!”. I quickly made my way over to the sag wagon and checked my drop bag. Within a minute or two panic set in: I had forgotten to take my gels and electrolyte tablets out of my drop bag. I had no gel. On any other marathon that may not have been a problem, but the race directions clearly indicated gels only at mile 15, and only one per runner. That simply wasn’t enough to get through 26.2 miles, I usually need two and sometimes 4. That wasn’t my biggest worry, though. I didn’t have my electrolytes! After being cursed by leg cramps since the last Octobers Northface Challenge 50k, I finally had figured out THE formula. One tablet every 5 miles, then 2 at mile 20 if I needed it. Water and gel as necessary. I started to fret about what to do, then the gun went off and I was swept away on my journey to another marathon finish.
It just so happens that the course passed our hotel at mile 2. I thought briefly about stopping to get some gel out of the room, but didn’t. We passed the hotel again at mile 4. this time Mom was standing on the sidelines watching us pass and I decided a quick stop at the hotel may save me from walking the last 6 miles of the race. I grabbed the key from her, bolted to the elevator and down the hall to our room. Alec and Evan were in the hallway and took great pleasure in helping me search for gels. Of course there were none to be found, I had packed them all in my drop bag. Back down the hall I went and plunged down the stairwell, barefoot kids in jammies in hot pursuit. I reached the lobby door, gave them both a kiss and continued on my journey down Yaquina Bay. My watch indicated I had lost almost 6 minutes, (there goes my PR attempt). I was also in the back of the pack so I sped up a little, hoping to catch one of my slower Maniac friends. By mile 6 I caught Leslie Miller. Leslie is great fun and was my running angel on day two of my double last summer. I knew I’d need her inspiration again today so I decided to throw out any time goal and spend my hours with Leslie. We chatted about everything: mostly running, but also work, travel, relationships. I think we solved some of life’s major problems while out on the course. Maniac #3 tp!, tossed me a gel at mile 10. Leslie gave me a salt tablet at mile 12. My fears had vanished, I knew my friends would make sure I had what I needed. We reached the gel station at mile 15 and the volunteer gave me 3 gels. We passed the gel station again at mile 17 (the way back on this out-and-back course) and I was handed 2 more. I was the gel queen! I had ‘em stashed everywhere! We continued to lope along, ticking off the uneventful but beautiful miles. Soon we were crossing the finish line, getting our medals and looking for food. I called Mom and was told they were just settling down for lunch so I spent some time relishing the post-race glow with the main Maniacs. My time for marathon #26? 4:29 and it really isn’t important.
Oh, one little detail: Somewhere along the course I promised Leslie I would run the Green River/North Olympic Discovery Marathons with her next weekend. It’s time to rest up, eat lots of quality food and tackle marathons 27 and 28 in a few days.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Capital City Marathon
The Capital City Marathon was significant because it was my 25th marathon/ultra marathon. I can’t believe I’ve run so many in such a short period of time …. this marathoning thing was something that just kind of fell upon me. You see, in the beginning I only wanted to run one marathon and check it off my “life list”. I did a lot of research on marathonguide.com and settled on the 2006 Vancouver International Marathon. The timing was perfect (giving me 6 months to train) and the location ideal. My training went better than planned, and so did my research: in February, a full 3 months before my scheduled marathon debut, I went to visit Ric in Arizona and ran a little race that marathonguide touted as one of the best of the west: the Lost Dutchman Marathon.
Okay, I can check running a marathon off my list.
One problem, though, I had already paid for Vancouver and I wasn’t going to let that $100 entry fee go to waste. Less than three months later, I was heading to Canada. I had a great time in Vancouver and enjoyed it more than the Dutchman. I even started contemplating a marathon as an annual tradition. I posted my race report on Coolrunning and sat back to watch the kudos come in. They came flooding in, in droves, and private emails too. One such email from a Seattle runner pointed out that if I ran Capital City in the next two weeks I would qualify for that exclusive Marathon Maniacs club. I was tired and ready to take the summer off, but the idea was too tempting. I wanted one of those yellow singlets… then I would settle back and run my once (or maybe twice) a year marathon. Of course it didn’t stop there, on those familiar streets of Olympia. Another marathon, this time in Bend, Oregon was calling my name. Then another marathon, and another. Suddenly I’m toeing the line at the 2008 version of Capital City Marathon: preparing to run my 25th and reflecting back on the last two years. As friends and familiar faces came up to chat, I realized this is who I’ve become. I’m a marathoner, one of the regulars.
The actual running of the marathon was rather uneventful. The morning was hot and the pavement even hotter as it radiated heat from the previous days 100 degree scorcher. The air was still as we made our way along the Puget Sound, talking about this marathon and that one. “I first ran with you in the 2006 Tri-Cities, that was a nasty headwind. Remember? Didn’t you set a PR that day?” one friend asked. “Oh, this is my 363rd marathon” another friend would comment when I asked his stats. Yet another would quip about our leg cramp mishaps in Boston, or the time we trudged up the final hill in Apache Junction in 85 degree weather. Not all the talk was happy, though. I passed my friend Uhna Lee attempting to finish her 100th marathon. I always pass her…. she goes out fast, I slow. I speed up, catch her and depending upon which mile marker that happens we make a comment on our relative runs. On most days I catch her around mile 20. This day I catch her at mile16. I ask about her health… she tells me she’s cramping badly. I give her my best healing hug (as best as I could do while running), offer her salt (which she declines) and tell her I’ll see her at the finish line. I continue on and catch Tom on the final, long hill before we head back into downtown. Tom runs my pace but always manages to beat me by a minute or five. As I come up to him, I can see he’s hurting. I try to get him to run the final 2 miles with me but he is clearly done for the day and just needs to dig deep and keep trudging. I finish feeling strong. Ric is waiting for me with a big hug and congratulations. He helps me untie my shoes, retrieve my clothing and buys me favorite post run treat: a coffee (and an extra pair of those great customized Capital City Marathon running pants). 25 is done but no time to rest… 26 is in two weeks.
Okay, I can check running a marathon off my list.
One problem, though, I had already paid for Vancouver and I wasn’t going to let that $100 entry fee go to waste. Less than three months later, I was heading to Canada. I had a great time in Vancouver and enjoyed it more than the Dutchman. I even started contemplating a marathon as an annual tradition. I posted my race report on Coolrunning and sat back to watch the kudos come in. They came flooding in, in droves, and private emails too. One such email from a Seattle runner pointed out that if I ran Capital City in the next two weeks I would qualify for that exclusive Marathon Maniacs club. I was tired and ready to take the summer off, but the idea was too tempting. I wanted one of those yellow singlets… then I would settle back and run my once (or maybe twice) a year marathon. Of course it didn’t stop there, on those familiar streets of Olympia. Another marathon, this time in Bend, Oregon was calling my name. Then another marathon, and another. Suddenly I’m toeing the line at the 2008 version of Capital City Marathon: preparing to run my 25th and reflecting back on the last two years. As friends and familiar faces came up to chat, I realized this is who I’ve become. I’m a marathoner, one of the regulars.
The actual running of the marathon was rather uneventful. The morning was hot and the pavement even hotter as it radiated heat from the previous days 100 degree scorcher. The air was still as we made our way along the Puget Sound, talking about this marathon and that one. “I first ran with you in the 2006 Tri-Cities, that was a nasty headwind. Remember? Didn’t you set a PR that day?” one friend asked. “Oh, this is my 363rd marathon” another friend would comment when I asked his stats. Yet another would quip about our leg cramp mishaps in Boston, or the time we trudged up the final hill in Apache Junction in 85 degree weather. Not all the talk was happy, though. I passed my friend Uhna Lee attempting to finish her 100th marathon. I always pass her…. she goes out fast, I slow. I speed up, catch her and depending upon which mile marker that happens we make a comment on our relative runs. On most days I catch her around mile 20. This day I catch her at mile16. I ask about her health… she tells me she’s cramping badly. I give her my best healing hug (as best as I could do while running), offer her salt (which she declines) and tell her I’ll see her at the finish line. I continue on and catch Tom on the final, long hill before we head back into downtown. Tom runs my pace but always manages to beat me by a minute or five. As I come up to him, I can see he’s hurting. I try to get him to run the final 2 miles with me but he is clearly done for the day and just needs to dig deep and keep trudging. I finish feeling strong. Ric is waiting for me with a big hug and congratulations. He helps me untie my shoes, retrieve my clothing and buys me favorite post run treat: a coffee (and an extra pair of those great customized Capital City Marathon running pants). 25 is done but no time to rest… 26 is in two weeks.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Tacoma City Marathon
I just finished running the Tacoma Marathon. The course was nice and hilly, and the weather was perfect (mid 40’s, clouds, a little drizzle). I took the early start since I was planning on using it as a training run. I had a couple of goals: Tweak with my electrolytes and try to get it right this time, practice a 5-1 run/walk ratio in preparation for a 12-hour race later this year, and feel recovered within 24 hours. I am happy to report I met 2 out my 3 goals. The 5-1 walk/run fell apart right away. The early start had about 40 runners so we were accompanied by a pace bike. It just so happens I was in the lead along with another woman. As we chatted the first few miles, I forgot to walk. Then I looked back and the two of us were alone with the pace bike. We couldn't walk because the pace bike was showing us the way, and he wasn't slowing down (we didn't want to get lost). We made a decision to keep our pace until the lead runners from the regular start passed us. We figured that would be about the half-way point. It didn't happen so we kept running. By that time it was conceivable to the spectators that we were actually leading the whole race, so everyone started cheering for us as we passed. It wasn't until mile 17 that the lead man overtook us. Relieved, we started to walk... but the spectators wouldn't let it be. Now it really appeared that we were the first women, and the leading women don't walk! At mile 21, the first woman passed us, quickly followed by another one. I finally allowed myself that walk break and walked the next 3 miles. I picked up my run again at mile 24 and cruised the last 2.2 miles .... my fans told me I was 5th woman (I didn't have the heart to tell them otherwise). My final time was 4:22:39 and some change. The last two miles were my fastest at a little under 8 minute miles. My legs didn't cramp (I took electrolytes every 45 minutes) and I felt good enough to walk a few miles in the afternoon. Even though the course as hilly, I didn’t have any leg cramping following the race or leg soreness the next day. This Sunday I have the Capital City Marathon: another long training run, then Newport at the end of the month. I may actually taper and race Newport if everything goes well.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Boston Marathon
I worked hard preparing for this marathon. I wanted to do really well with a goal of BQ for 2009. All winter I trained hills, increased my average run to 10 miles (with a 13 mile medium-long run mid-week). Things were looking good, then 3 weeks from Boston I strained my hamstring during a cool down. The strain forced me to miss my last long run (the Dizzy Daze 50k), and as a result my final long run was 5 weeks prior to Boston.
By the time Boston hit, I was just happy to be healthy enough to run. Alec and Ric were both joining me on this trip, so I decided to have as much fun as possible and not worry about resting up for the actual marathon. Friday we hit the expo, the aquarium, played catch at the park, worked out in the hotel fitness center and had dinner at Fenway park, under the bleachers during a game. Saturday we did some siteseeing, worked out again then made our way to Cambridge for a gathering of friends.
We were up early Sunday morning to help Brooks organize high school kids into cheering squads for the Women’s Marathon Olympia Trials. The high schools were competing against each other for three prizes: each a complete outfitting of their track team for the year. Our team was a small school from New Hampshire. 6 kids, the coach and two parents had taken the 3 am train to Boston to try and win a prize. Coming from a small, rural community, they had little funding for their team and have had to hand-patch their track uniforms for the last several years. The Brooks prize package was a huge deal for them. They were the first high school to show up. The kids and parents were dressed head-to-toe in Brooks/Hansen colors (red/yellow/black), they had painted their faces, glittered their hair added beads and leis. We started our quest for the prize by parading up and down the course, trying to get the crowd warmed up. Right before the marathon start we lined up in “our” spot, feeling good about our chances. Then the other schools came…. the big Boston schools. Our little team felt their prize slipping from their grip as 50-60 kids per school descended on us. Drums thumping, horns blaring. Still they cheered on, in the cold, doing their best to bring victory to the Brooks runners. After the trials, and hugs and best wishes we went our separate ways. The kids from Masenic headed back to New Hampshire. Ric, Alec and I headed to the Brooks post-marathon trails party.
The party was a blast. It was held in a retro bowling alley next to our hotel. Brooks provided free food, beverage and bowling to all of their guests. I got to meet several ID members and Alec and Ric bowled along side marathon legend Joan Benoit. We finished the day by attending the BAA sponsored pasta dinner. The food was good but nothing fancy, I’m glad we went though.
I was up early and heading for the buses to Hopkinton at 6:30. I was amazed at the long lines through the Boston Commons, but chatted with several Maniacs I hadn’t met before so the time passed quickly. Just as I was getting ready to board the bus, I ran into Steve Yee, Chris Warren and T.P. We sat together at the back of the bus and spent the hour-long ride catching up. I hadn’t talked to Steve or Chris much since Yakima last year and I had never met T.P. When we got to the athletes village I wandered for a minute or two then stumbled across Maniacs Marc Frommer, Brain Pendleton and Ami Yanni. Maniacs must have a some super sense that allows them to find each other, because even with over 30,000 people in the Village, I’ve quickly found the main group of Maniacs both years. I had just settled in when the call came to head for the starting line. I miscalculated how long it would take to change into my racing gear and check my drop bag. As a result I got to the starting corrals late and couldn’t work my way up to my starting corral before the gun went off. Once again, I was stuck in with the charity runners. I really didn’t mind too much. I was actually tired from a busy week of siteseeing and knew I wouldn’t be running fast, so I decided to just enjoy the ride. It was quite a ride, too! The weather was perfect (60+ degrees and sunny), the crowds were huge! The entire course from Hopinkton to Boston was lined with spectators at least 3 deep. They were screaming and cheering. Music was blasting out from all corners. There were the official aid stations and many more ad-hoc aid stations offering oranges, popsicles, chocolate, beer. My favorites were the oranges and the popsicles. I made sure to take an electrolyte tablet every five miles. I was running better than I expected and on track for a 4:10 or so marathon. Unfortunately I forgot to take an electrolyte at mile 20 and by the time I crested Heartbreak Hill, it was too late. I cramped badly at mile 23. I was completely immobilized in the middle of the street. Somehow I managed to make my way over to the curb, put my hands on my knees and proceeded to get really sick. I knew there was no way I was going to continue and run. I also knew that I had come too far to drop out… I only had 3 miles left. After what seemed like an hour, I started to hobble towards Boston. First it was barely a walk, I made it to an aid station, took two electrolytes and some water. Soon my hobble became a brisk walk, then the walk turned into a slow jog. Before long I was running again and turning the final corner on to Boylston. I spotted Alec and Ric, ran to the side to give them a high five, then ran across the finish line.
After the race we walked down to Fenway park for dinner, then Alec and I took the long way home with a stroll through Back Bay. Just before we came to our hotel we saw the last 5 people finishing the marathon (somewhere around 9:00 p.m.) Alec was thrilled he got to see the first and last place finishers.The next morning we rented a car and drove to Newport. We had a great time touring the mansions and taking in the harbour side sites.
It was a great trip. Great weather, great company and good running. I’m already qualified and booked for next year.
By the time Boston hit, I was just happy to be healthy enough to run. Alec and Ric were both joining me on this trip, so I decided to have as much fun as possible and not worry about resting up for the actual marathon. Friday we hit the expo, the aquarium, played catch at the park, worked out in the hotel fitness center and had dinner at Fenway park, under the bleachers during a game. Saturday we did some siteseeing, worked out again then made our way to Cambridge for a gathering of friends.
We were up early Sunday morning to help Brooks organize high school kids into cheering squads for the Women’s Marathon Olympia Trials. The high schools were competing against each other for three prizes: each a complete outfitting of their track team for the year. Our team was a small school from New Hampshire. 6 kids, the coach and two parents had taken the 3 am train to Boston to try and win a prize. Coming from a small, rural community, they had little funding for their team and have had to hand-patch their track uniforms for the last several years. The Brooks prize package was a huge deal for them. They were the first high school to show up. The kids and parents were dressed head-to-toe in Brooks/Hansen colors (red/yellow/black), they had painted their faces, glittered their hair added beads and leis. We started our quest for the prize by parading up and down the course, trying to get the crowd warmed up. Right before the marathon start we lined up in “our” spot, feeling good about our chances. Then the other schools came…. the big Boston schools. Our little team felt their prize slipping from their grip as 50-60 kids per school descended on us. Drums thumping, horns blaring. Still they cheered on, in the cold, doing their best to bring victory to the Brooks runners. After the trials, and hugs and best wishes we went our separate ways. The kids from Masenic headed back to New Hampshire. Ric, Alec and I headed to the Brooks post-marathon trails party.
The party was a blast. It was held in a retro bowling alley next to our hotel. Brooks provided free food, beverage and bowling to all of their guests. I got to meet several ID members and Alec and Ric bowled along side marathon legend Joan Benoit. We finished the day by attending the BAA sponsored pasta dinner. The food was good but nothing fancy, I’m glad we went though.
I was up early and heading for the buses to Hopkinton at 6:30. I was amazed at the long lines through the Boston Commons, but chatted with several Maniacs I hadn’t met before so the time passed quickly. Just as I was getting ready to board the bus, I ran into Steve Yee, Chris Warren and T.P. We sat together at the back of the bus and spent the hour-long ride catching up. I hadn’t talked to Steve or Chris much since Yakima last year and I had never met T.P. When we got to the athletes village I wandered for a minute or two then stumbled across Maniacs Marc Frommer, Brain Pendleton and Ami Yanni. Maniacs must have a some super sense that allows them to find each other, because even with over 30,000 people in the Village, I’ve quickly found the main group of Maniacs both years. I had just settled in when the call came to head for the starting line. I miscalculated how long it would take to change into my racing gear and check my drop bag. As a result I got to the starting corrals late and couldn’t work my way up to my starting corral before the gun went off. Once again, I was stuck in with the charity runners. I really didn’t mind too much. I was actually tired from a busy week of siteseeing and knew I wouldn’t be running fast, so I decided to just enjoy the ride. It was quite a ride, too! The weather was perfect (60+ degrees and sunny), the crowds were huge! The entire course from Hopinkton to Boston was lined with spectators at least 3 deep. They were screaming and cheering. Music was blasting out from all corners. There were the official aid stations and many more ad-hoc aid stations offering oranges, popsicles, chocolate, beer. My favorites were the oranges and the popsicles. I made sure to take an electrolyte tablet every five miles. I was running better than I expected and on track for a 4:10 or so marathon. Unfortunately I forgot to take an electrolyte at mile 20 and by the time I crested Heartbreak Hill, it was too late. I cramped badly at mile 23. I was completely immobilized in the middle of the street. Somehow I managed to make my way over to the curb, put my hands on my knees and proceeded to get really sick. I knew there was no way I was going to continue and run. I also knew that I had come too far to drop out… I only had 3 miles left. After what seemed like an hour, I started to hobble towards Boston. First it was barely a walk, I made it to an aid station, took two electrolytes and some water. Soon my hobble became a brisk walk, then the walk turned into a slow jog. Before long I was running again and turning the final corner on to Boylston. I spotted Alec and Ric, ran to the side to give them a high five, then ran across the finish line.
After the race we walked down to Fenway park for dinner, then Alec and I took the long way home with a stroll through Back Bay. Just before we came to our hotel we saw the last 5 people finishing the marathon (somewhere around 9:00 p.m.) Alec was thrilled he got to see the first and last place finishers.The next morning we rented a car and drove to Newport. We had a great time touring the mansions and taking in the harbour side sites.
It was a great trip. Great weather, great company and good running. I’m already qualified and booked for next year.
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