Volvo Group Trucks 5k Race Recap

This month has been crazy! I did not imagine that August would get so busy! And I thought 3 races in one month was going to be easy...HA!

My 3rd and final race for this month was the Volvo Group Trucks 5k, which took place at the Volvo Mack Trucks location in Hagerstown, MD. The money raised from the event was given to the Community Free Clinic of Washington County (CFCWC). This clinic was established in 1990, which allows the uninsured to receive the medical attention they need.  

"The Clinic provides greater than 15,000 patient visits each year dispensing over 44,000 prescription medications with a retail value of totally more than $5,500,000. Averaging over 1300 patient visits per month, the Clinic continues to see a steady growth in demand for services." - CFCWC website.

Anyway, I woke up this morning with a terrible tummy ache. It was a combination of race day nerves and the Irish Trashcan I chugged last night...I do not recommend enjoying one the night before a race.

It really messed with my confidence. I felt ill till gun time and I staggered a bit after the race began.

First, my GPS watch was still timing my run from last night. Then, my iPod began on a slow song.  Jello legs were also an issue. Not really an ideal way to start.

The course was "out and back" style around the Volvo Campus, beginning and ending just outside the lobby. It started on a fairly flat surface, then went into a long, grueling, uphill climb. It really broke the runners in. All I could think about was how amazing it would be to fly down the hill coming back to finish. The course wasn't too hilly, however. There were only about two hills that we truly had to battle. I found them quite difficult in the weather we were having.

It was not ideal for me. It was a bit muggy on top of the heat, in my opinion. It also did not help that I was dehydrated from my alcohol intake the night before. I trucked (heh, trucked) through it though and just kept looking forward to the downhill that led to the finish line.

You can kinda see me in the tree :)

When I approached the final stretch, I could hear a man quickly approaching me from behind. So I started to sprint (not sure where I got the energy from!), allowing me to finish strong.

So strong that I got a PR...

...and a 3rd place award for my age group!

No more paparazzi photos, please!

I haven't received all the stats for the race, but I do know that I finished 38th out of 111 overall and 3rd out of 11 females in my age group. Not too bad!


This was not a bad race, by any means. It was definitely for a good cause, but, I will probably not chose to participate in this race next year. I found the course to be slightly boring since all you could see were Volvo/Mack tractor trailers through out the entire run. Makes sense since that is where the race took place and I should have expected as much. I am just very much into scenery. I'm spoiled from the trail.

But like I said, not a bad race at all. I give it a 7/10.


Did you have a race today?

What is the most amount of races you have completed in one month?

Have you ever drank too much the night before a race?

Sponsored: Sleek Tampons from U by Kotex

Ladies, have you ever planned to compete in a race or weekend long run only to be graced by the presence of your monthly visitor? It can change your attitude and mess with your entire running schedule! You may fear that you will be uncomfortable and unprotected against leaks! The last thing that any woman wants is to have her tampon give out halfway through a half marathon, sacrificing time and perhaps her overall confidence to compete.

In the past, I struggled with running when my period was involved. My distances were usually reduced to avoid any embarrassment or discomfort while out on the trail or the road. Though I never wanted my period to be a deciding factor on whether I ran 5 or 15 miles, it consistently made the final word. 

Recently, I received a package from the good people at U by Kotex.

Loved the packaging :)

It contained a box of their regular Sleek tampons (they are available in regular, super, and super plus). Before this, I had not yet tried this variety of tampon, but was excited U by Kotex wanted me to test it out.

First and foremost, I was quite giddy about the multiple colors they had in one package.

Loved the wrappers. Not only stylish, but they allow you to easily dispose
of the applicator.

My initial choice was the purple pack since purple happens to be one of my favorite colors...but who is going to see it anyway? :o) 

U by Kotex emphasizes this tampon's PerfectTouch Grip, which allows a "just right" placement. That means, no slipping when inserting.

The tampon was extremely easy to put in, though I would not give the grip sole credit. It did add to the simplicity of insertion, but the smooth applicator was a big help as well! So say "goodbye" to cardboard applicators for good, ladies. These are a dream!

Now, for the true test! As I mentioned, I need a product that will allow me to go on a long run without experiencing any discomfort or fear of leaks. A tampon may be pretty and easy to put in, but was it going to accommodate my needs as a distance runner?

I decided I would wear them on both of my long runs this past weekend. On Saturday, I went for an 8 miler and Sunday, a 15 miler.

Honestly, I forgot I was even wearing the tampon. Although that may hinder myself from giving you a full review, it does prove that this tampon is perfect for heavy physical activity. It stayed in place and was able to protect me against leaks for nearly 2.5 hours! Not once did I have to question the reliability of this product.

Would I recommend this particular tampon to all women runners? DEFINITELY! I think that each of you would be extremely satisfied! I am sold and cannot imagine giving these up! So grab a free sample to test it out on your own run by clicking here! I bet you will remain a Sleek girl too! :)

To learn more about U by Kotex and the products they offer, "like" them on Facebook or "follow" on Twitter!

I wrote this review while participating in a content series through Clever Girls Collective on behalf of U by Kotex, and received products to facilitate my post and compensation for my time to participate.

Vlog: Top 5 Reasons For Running

I am still on a hiatus, BUT I wanted to post the vlog that I did this Saturday. I never got around to posting it that day. It was obviously because of the drinking that shows near the end.

Hope you all are having a great week!!!

What are your top 5 reasons for running?

Hiatus

Hello, faithful readers...or those who have just randomly stumbled across my blog!

I am taking a quick hiatus due to a bazillion things that have come up! New job...house warming party...new running schedule...and then some! I should be back by next week!


Have a good one and keep running!!!

Gary Brown Memorial C&O Canal Race Recap

***Congratulations to Ashley H, who won the free Spartan Race Entry!! Hope you have a great time at the location of your choice!***

This morning was ideal for a race! The air was cool enough to wear a jacket on the way and I did not feel an ounce of humidity. It was going to be perfect! No heat to slow me down!

The race also took place on the C&O Canal, which is where I typically run...just downstream about 20 miles. The path is fairly simple, mainly flat, but when you encounter any hills, they are very gradual and easy to withstand. 

These are the type of racing conditions that lead to PRs. You are not your wasting energy on hills. You are also not dying of a heat stroke half way through as the majority of this course is shaded. You are able to focus solely on your pace!

I arrived, trying to keep myself from competing. I felt that if I went into the race, running at a 5K pace, I would die before the end. My goal was to maintain my regular pace of 8:45 and whatever outcome that would bring, then I would live with it.

My running pal, Monica (purple) and me (turquoise) prepping
for the race

When the race began, I had no choice but to begin at an easy pace. The canal is not wide like a road way, therefore, it was difficult to pass other runners. You simply have to wait until some distance themselves from the pack or fall behind. It really helped me keep my pace goal. Even when the bulk of runners dissipated, I was able to maintain my pace without letting my adrenaline get the best of me.

Since this was an "out and back" course, I began seeing the elitists already on their way back when I was barely 15 minutes in. I found it exciting rather than discouraging to see how these runners pushed themselves ahead! I cheered the top 3 on when they passed by.

During a lot of the race, I felt like I was alone. I was in a "No Man's Land" for about 3 out of the 5 miles and preferred it that way so I could keep the non-competitive attitude. I continued to check my pace and saw that I was keeping to goal. After the first 2 miles, I decided to kick it up a little bit. I was feeling strong and felt that an 8:30 pace would be appropriate.

After the first half was complete, I began to wonder if I was going to PR. I saw my time was closing in on 22 minutes at 2.5 miles. At that rate, I was seeing a finish time around 43 minutes. I decided that on mile 3, I would kick it up again. This time, my pace was around 8:15. It wasn't until mile 4 that I felt a little bit of fatigue, but at that point, I was not going to slow down. I briefly checked my Garmin and saw that my pace was 7:45, my fastest mile in a 5 mile run ever.

As I approached the finish line, I saw the time clock approaching the 42 minute mark, so I booked it (thankfully, it was a downhill stretch).

I made it. Finish time of 41:35, a PR. I came in 81st out of 132 runners. I was the 23rd woman out of 48. There were A LOT of really strong competitors in this race. Most seemed to be high school students who participated on the Track and XC teams.

Although I enjoyed the race, I did not like how they grouped us age-wise. My age group was 18-29, which was the widest age gap in the entire race. So it was a little discouraging that the majority of the age group awards were given to those under 20 in that category. But that was my only gripe.

I still finished with a smile. Not only did I have an incredible PR, but I also had my #1 Fan, Peter and our puppy, who was joining my cheering squad for the first time. Everyone just loved him!

This race definitely gets a high rank 9/10. It only loses the 1 point due to my annoyance with age grouping. But definitely a great race for those who like taking the race off the road for a change. Also, some great competitors, like Susan Graham-Gray participated. She won the race despite being legally blind. Obviously, this woman has not let that affect her! She has been in the Olympic Trails. CRAZY!

Anyway, on to the next race! 2 more weeks!!!
Have a great Saturday!!!

Pepper Perfection & Great Running Weather

What a week it's been! I started off on an emotional roller coaster, only to crash quickly by Tuesday. On top of that, it has been my last week in my current job position and I have been trying to tie up unfinished business. Thankfully, tomorrow is my last day and I get coffee and sushi. :o)

But, aside from that, there are two things that have gone pretty smoothly this week: Running & Food.

Last night, I threw together beef & quinoa stuffed peppers...

It may not be the most picturesque meal, but it was the most delicious thing I have tasted all week. The last time I made stuffed peppers, I used chicken. They were really good, but not like this! These peppers were stuffed with lean beef and I also added tomato sauce to the mix. It was perfection on a plate!! Also, the peppers I used were not just any store bought pepper. They were picked from our own garden! Yum!!! I was lucky enough to have leftovers for my lunch today.

Now, for the best part of my week...running!!!

The weather has been such a blessing. 70 degrees and zero humidity! It has played a huge part in the results I have seen these last two days.

I have had some great times. The best I have seen since even before my surgery. I love seeing my average pace in the 8 minute range. It leaves me believing I will see a 7 minute pace in the near future.

Tomorrow is a rest day in preparation for my 5 mile trail race on Saturday. I am not expecting any awards out of it, just experience. It will be my first race on a trail and that will be rewarding in itself. I am also contemplating a 5k on the 31st, but am procrastinating on making a decision. That will be 3 races within a month and I think it could be too much! Especially since come September, it's all half marathons up until November. Phew!

Anyway, I hope you all here in the MD area took advantage of the lovely weather we had. Let us pray for more to come!!!

PS. If you haven't already, sign up for my Spartan Race giveaway!!!

What was the best meal you had this week?

Have good weather in your neck of the woods these past few days? How did it affect your running?

Race, Wedding, Half Marathon

I had one busy weekend! As you have read, I participated in the Krumpe's Do-Nut Alley Rally on Friday and rocked it! I think that race shook the cobwebs from my legs and brought me back to where I needed to be. It gave me the confidence I needed to enjoy running again.

 

But on Saturday, I decided to opt out of my regular long run, finishing the week at a solid 30 miles. Peter and I had a great deal of traveling ahead of us and running was not going to fit into the schedule that day.

We were driving 4 hours south to see my cousin Kara marry her long-time love, Colby in Virginia. I must say, it was one of the most beautiful weddings I have witnessed in my life! The location was gorgeous...

...as was the bride. I nearly got choked up when I saw her and her father approach the altar. I am such a girl.

Shortly following the wedding, a delicious meal, cake, and two mini bottles of wine...

...Peter and I already had to hit the road. We had another 4 hour driving session ahead of us and we wanted to  make it home before 1am. Lucky for us, we did and had a well-deserved sleep session!

I woke up on Sunday around 7:30, which was early enough to beat the heat of the day. I decided I would do a long run on the trail. My original goal was 12, but you know how those goals change a bazillion times before a final decision on distance is made.

When I reached mile 6, I decided to extend out .55 miles and make the total run 13.1.

I think I did pretty well! I was, without a doubt, tired as hell, but was able to finish strong.

Today, I stuck to an easy 5 miles, finishing just above 44 minutes, which was better than I expected to do. Now, I have a day of rest in front of me, which I will take full advantage of! :o)

Happy Monday!


Did you have a busy weekend? What did you do?

How long was your last "long run"?

What is the longest distance you have ever traveled in your car in a day?

BIG Spartan Race News & A Giveaway!!!

BIG NEWS for all you Spartans out there!

The Reebok Spartan Race and NBC Sports Network have teamed up to present a televised special of one of the world's most challenging obstacle races! The World Championship, which is held in central Vermont, is considered one of the most grueling Spartan courses held all year. It is known as their "Spartan Beast" race, which means it is over 12 miles with at least 25 different obstacles! The event itself will be held on September 21st and 22nd 2013. Thousands from every corner of the globe will compete against one another to earn a piece of $250,000 in cash and prizes.

In this new partnership, a 90 minute feature will air on October 19th sharing the stories of Spartans who are participating in the Killington, Vermont course. Eight professional athletes and four everyday Spartans will be followed through their journey to complete the "Beast".

Do you have what it takes?


I am giving away ONE free Spartan race entry. This grants you free registration to any Spartan Race in the continental US for their 2013-2014 races. But, this could be your opportunity to race in the World Championship and have the chance of being featured on NBC Sports Network!

Enter below!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

You and your friends can also sign up using a 15% off promo code by clicking here! 

Good luck! The winner will be announced Sunday, August 18th.

Krumpe's Donut Alley Rally 5k

When you walk down Do-Nut Alley and are greeted by the scent of freshly baked pastries, it is hard not to think that you have died and entered a heaven filled with glazed & cream-filled perfection. On top of that, you have an entire 5k devoted to that special treat, the doughnut. As a runner, this is the utopia we would all love to visit...and frequently.

This was my first Krumpe's Do-Nut Alley Rally 5k and it takes place in downtown Hagerstown, MD. The race begins just steps away from Krumpe's aka Do-Nut Heaven. So from the start, you are teased by the smell of deep fried decadence. All you can focus on is the 3.1 miles that comes between you and getting that fresh victory donut at the finish line.

Upon arriving, we were greeted with a downpour, but I welcomed it with open arms. Although many seemed displeased, I thought it felt amazing. Prior to arriving, I thought it was a bit too sticky out and the rain that we were getting seemed to alleviate some of that humidity. It, at least, reduced the temperature down below 80 degrees.

The rain let up to a sprinkle when runners approached the starting line and at 7:30 on the nose, we were off!

Screenshot (I'm in yellow) that aired on Herald-Mail.com

The runners that surrounded me bolted, while I held back from letting my adrenaline take over. I did not want to put too much pressure on myself since I have not performed at my top since surgery. I had a goal of finishing within 28 minutes so I kept my pace easy.

As I rounded the street corners, I noticed that I was beginning to catch some of the runners that left me in the dust at the beginning. I have been there and experienced that just in my last race, the Run for Freedom 5k in Williamsport. I jumped the gun from the start and lost all my energy within the first mile.

After my first mile, my curiosity took over and I glanced at my GPS watch (something I was trying to avoid) and noticed my pace was stronger than I anticipated. I was sitting on an 8 minute mile. I panicked briefly, thinking I was going to drain myself halfway in, but continued to keep pace

I passed several townspeople who were cheering the runners on from their homes. I thrive off of that support. The applause and the encouragement is definitely appreciated. Though, as I was nearing the end, I saw my parents and that was something I could not have been happier about! I waved to them and heard my dad yell "GO LINDSEY!" I smiled from ear to ear. It pushed me even harder.

I did not know that I was approaching the finish line until I literally saw the arc in sight. It was a downhill straight right to the end. I kept my eye on the timer. It was seconds away from 25 minutes. I knew that I was seconds behind gun point so I was not sure if I would make it in time.

I checked my watch after crossing and saw 24:57. I was stunned!

I greeted Peter with a victory hug! This was the 2nd fastest 5k I have ever run and you are right if you guessed that I celebrated with a Krumpe's Do-Nut!

A powdered cream-filled donut, to be exact!

Here are the rest of my official stats...

I finished 4th in my age group out of 62.
I placed 105th out of 561 runners.
I was the 25th woman to cross the finish line.

It was a good race and I look forward to doing the 4th Annual Krumpe's Do-Nut Alley Rally next year!

Celebrity Marathoners

I can't help but find myself intrigued by celebrity news. I find myself frequently skipping across the internet in search of juicy gossip. Recently, I am guilty of peaking into Ms. Amanda Bynes' drama. However, I found myself distracted by something far more interesting....

Lindsay Lohan Wants to Run 26.2

Runner's World reported that Lindsay is receiving advice from two-time Olympian, Shannon Rowbury to assist in her training for the LA Marathon next year.

“I told her to do intervals, by running fast/slow even if she’s running on treadmill or in the street,” Rowbury told Runner's World Newswire by email last week.

 Apparently Lindsay has also been sited sporting a new GPS watch to better assist the star in her efforts to become a better runner.

I would seriously cheer Lindsay on if she would actually attempt the LA Marathon. I supported her prior to her "rock bottom" phase, but her story became a little too drawn out for me so I stopped reading up on her. Though, when I saw this article, some of my faith in her began to restore itself. If she can do this, it would really be a step in the right direction. Anyone that attempts/completes a marathon is truly a strong person. It takes more than just being physically fit, but you have to have a strong mentality as well.

On a similar subject, I came across a list of many others that have completed marathons in their lifetime. I was surprised at some of the names that popped up, but thought "If they can do it, so can I!"

Here are the ones I found most surprising...

1. Will Ferrell - 2003 Boston Marathon, 3:56:12

2. Drew Carey - 2011 Marine Corps Marathon, 4:37:11

3. Sean Astin - 1998 Los Angeles Marathon, 4:04

4. George Bush - 1993 Houston Marathon, 3:44:52

Check out some more here!


Do you think Lindsay Lohan will complete the LA Marathon? Would it change your opinion about her?

Which celebrity were you most surprised to find ran a marathon?

 

This Happens Way Too Much...

Motivation was an issue today...

...as well as rain. I am not one that allows rain to impact the decision to run or not, but I was about to play the blame game this evening. I have really been enjoying my trail runs now more than ever. I can tolerate a little bit of mud and getting wet, but the rain was more significant today and the trail was not happening. So I settled for a road run while Peter exercised on his bike.

I also had a hard time convincing myself to run this evening. I nearly backed out and I know that it would have been for the better. Life just suddenly got busy and I have been running a good amount since coming back on board post-surgery. This is beginning to weigh heavy on my energy levels so I have decided to spread my rest days out starting next week. By the time I have completed 3 days of running in a row, I am typically dying of exhaustion. So now, I will do one rest day on Monday or Tuesday, while I keep Friday for rest as well.

I did manage to get 5 miles in, but decided to abstain from weight lifting this evening. I weight lifted earlier this week and think that may have also contributed to being as run down as I am. I have another 5 mile goal for tomorrow, but I am definitely resting it up on Thursday since I want to be race ready on Friday. Gotta earn those Krumpe's Donuts!

I cannot tell you how ainsy I am to return to feeling like my old self. Although I am happy to see myself gaining my distance and speed back, I am just ready to put in some 35-40 mile weeks again.


How many rest days do you take a week? If multiple, do you spread them out or keep them back to back?

Busy Weekend with JT, Jay-Z, Puppies, and Running Partners

Phew! The last 2 days have truly been something!

As I quickly informed you all yesterday, I made it to 10 miles! It surely didn't feel as effortless as it did before, but I am where I want to be. 12 miles is my goal for next Sunday; however, I would be much satisfied with another 10 miler. I am going to be pretty busy next weekend as well with my cousin's wedding in Lynchburg, VA so if all I can do is 10, no biggie.

Later that evening, Peter and I went to the Legends of Summer Tour, which featured both Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z.

We sat about 30 miles away from the stage, but still managed to enjoy ourselves. Honestly, I think I sat in the same area when I saw Nsync there 12 years ago.

We arrived home in the wee hours of the morning due to bad traffic leaving the park. And boy, was it rough waking up! We could not sleep in, but it was because we had to pick up our new puppy!

Alpha came home with us today and has been a very excitable pup. Really...he has been peeing all over the house! But, that's just one of the things we anticipated. I am sure he will get better as time goes on.

Since I was still very exhausted from our late night and early morning with the puppy, it took me a while to get motivated to run. I did one 5k session after lunch and sported a very colorful outfit.

Check out the new Mizuno Wave Riders! Aren't they gorge!? They feel amazing in comparison to previous shoes I have used on road runs!

I also did second round of running this evening. I was joined by my dear friend Ashley on the trail! I do not frequently run with partners...and by that I mean, I NEVER run with anyone. But I have enjoyed both runs I have done with her and we look to try to run with each other once a week now. Tonight, we did a nice 4 miler. That brought me to 7 for the day.

My goal for the week is 30-35 miles. I don't think I'm quite ready to get back to a complete 35 miles just because I am not feeling my normal self quite yet. That and I have another super busy weekend ahead. But I wish you all a successful running week! We got this :)


In the past week, what has been your longest distance?

Have you been to any summer concerts? Would you go to the Legends of the Summer Tour?

Do you prefer running alone, with a partner, or are you indifferent?

Pre-Cancer Free, New Job, Anniversary, and a GOOD Run!

Ahh! I have not abandoned my post! A lot has happened in the last 3 days and I am here to spill the beans! It is going to be a long one, folks!

Let's start with the worst of my week first!

On Wednesday, I did a 5 mile run in the neighborhood, while Peter enjoyed his new bike. It was hotter than what it had been and there was a tinge of humidity in the air. But like the determined creature I am, I trucked through one of my most miserable runs since hopping back on the horse.

Once again, I found myself struggling to breathe properly and I felt weak for 90% of the run. This lead to a lot of self doubt. I wondered if it was even a good idea that I signed up for next Friday's 5K so soon after surgery. I, at least, finished the run without giving up. Though, I decided I needed the next couple of days off from exercise just to get my head back on straight.

On Thursday, my day went way better than anticipated. I had my post-op appointment and I was told that the tissues removed were pre-cancerous and if I waited any longer, it would have surely turned into cancer. They believed the specimen removed was the only area affected. Now, I just have to visit every 3 months for the next year to verify that the surrounding region remains clear of pre-cancerous cells. Woo!

On the same day, I was also informed that I was hired for a new position within my company! I interviewed for a new job a few weeks back and I was sure I blew it on the spot. I did not expect to hear that I was one of the 5 to make it to second round interviews! I prepared to the best of my ability and ended up being one of the 3 selected for the new position. NINETY employees applied! I am very proud of myself and I look forward to starting my new job on August 19th!

After work, Peter and I were not only going out to celebrate all of my good news, but it was also our 3 year anniversary! I could not be any happier with any other man than the one I currently have. Peter has really been the missing puzzle piece to my life and I am thankful for him every day!

Anyway, we went out to eat because nothing says "I love you" quite like ordering more sushi than you can eat...

This was less than half of the meal!

Now, fast forward to today!

I was very panicked to go on my run. I wanted to do a "long run", but it was in no way going to be the norm. Since I struggled so much with 5 on Wednesday, I thought running 7 miles was the best I could do on a Saturday. I told myself that it would be okay if I turned around early or had to stop halfway to recover. I thought if I allowed myself that, I would not be disappointed in myself if I had to resort to one of those options.

It didn't help my spirits that it was raining...BUT, I was determined to hit the trail and I think the rain ended up working in my favor. It kept the heat at bay and my body temperature low. My heart rate remained in the 170s, maxing at 175 bpm, and my breathing was so much better than what I experienced last week! It felt like my lungs expanded just enough to get the oxygen I needed. It was a relief!

When I made it to the second half of the run, I felt very refreshed and didn't feel it necessarily to stop and rest! I made it the entire 7 miles!

This was the first run I did where I felt next to normal! My pace is still a tad slower than where I would like it, but I cannot complain one bit! I think I may try to a longer distance tomorrow, just nothing over 10 miles.

I came home to do my stretches and also threw in an ab workout for the first time in over 2 weeks.

They were getting a bit squishy!

All in all, I am so happy I am closing in on where I was in running. I also am thankful that I have rid myself of the poison that was in my body (pre-cancer cells). Then, there is the fruits of my labor at work beginning to show through with this wonderful promotion! And last but not least, having the best boyfriend in the world!

Life is good. :)


When was your last "bad" run? Why was it bad? Did it make you doubt yourself?

Have you received any good news this week? Do share!

Do you like sushi? What is your favorite kind of sushi roll?

Do you do any ab workouts?