Runderella

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Race Recap: 2018 Disney’s Princess Half Marathon

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Disney’s Princess half marathon is a wonderful experience for novice and experienced runners, and those of us in between. It is the perfect girlfriend getaway vacation, filled with the magic of Disney.

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon was the race I first ran back in 2013 and the race which sparked my love for running. A few weeks ago, I went down for the 10th Anniversary of run Disney’s Princess half, but also my 5th running anniversary, where I met up with my best running girlfriends for a weekend of eating, drinking, and running Disney. I booked the hotel rather late, and all that was available was All-Star Movies. While it isn’t my favorite resort, I’ll take staying in the parks rather than outside. It’s so much easier to get around and not have to rent a car or Uber.

Unless there are items I am interested in buying at the expo, I typically avoid going to the expo on day one. The crowds are insane everywhere! Once you arrive at ESPN Wide World of Sports (there are buses running frequently from all Disney World resorts), there are two stops: one is to pick up your bib and race shirt; the other building has the expo merchants. This year, I noticed they had a building dedicated to carrying all runDisney merchandise.

I’ve been extremely busy and had no time to put together a race costume and most likely will not have one for Star Wars, which is a bummer. I looked around at the expo and did see a few items that would work well for a costume but being that I didn’t go on day one to the expo (wasn’t planning on buying a costume), everything in my size was sold out. My friend was coming down a day later, so I asked her to pick up an Eagles hat at the airport, and I quickly threw an outfit together – a dark green Lululemon top and black skirt. Combined with the hat, I decided I would run as an Eagles Princess; fitting since they just won the Super Bowl. Go Eagles!!

I spoke with Jeff Galloway, Olympian and creator of the run-walk-run injury free program and asked for his advice. If you’re ever at the expo, please pay him a visit. He is truly the most genuine and nice person and gives great advice. I explained to him that I’ve had my share of injuries in the past 2 years and that my last run was 6.5 miles on Christmas Eve. His suggestion was to run 15 seconds and walk 30 seconds.

With Olympian Jeff Galloway

Race morning came and my friend and I had some fruit, coffee and some carbs. The resort had free coffee on race morning, which was really nice. Disney suggests runners taking bus transportation to the start line board buses no later than 3:30 AM, and monorail passengers board no later than 4:00 AM. Since my friend missed the expo, we had to stop at runner relations in the morning to pick up her bib, so we boarded the bus at 3:00 AM. The weather was a bit cool, but it was expected to be warmer than usual for February, and warnings were placed everywhere reminding people to hydrate and dress appropriately for the warm temperatures.

Corrals were going off every 5 minutes or so.  Race announcers Carissa and Rudy were great at keeping the crowds entertained and informed when their corral would take off. My corral took off 45 minutes after the elites/A corral. My Gymboss timer set for the run/walk ratios that Jeff Galloway suggested and started run/walk after a quick 5 minute warm up.

I was feeling great and decided to increase the run intervals to 30 seconds (bad idea). I felt my hamstrings start to burn a bit, and before it got worse, I stopped at the first medical tent and rubbed Biofreeze on my hammies. Once that kicked in, I was good, until my right foot started to ache. I’ve never had issues with my feet while running, so this struck me as odd and concerning. I stopped at the second medical tent briefly, sat down and massaged my foot for a minute and was back on my way with no other issues, thank God!

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom

I was doing great time-wise. Aside from those two medical tent stops, I stopped to use a real bathroom (wait was over 10 minutes but SO worth it), because let’s face it, no one wants to use a port-a-potty unless deemed necessary. Stopped for a photo op shortly after mile 11, because Jack. Enough said!

Run Like you left the crock pot on -“This is Us”

It sure wasn’t my fastest half time, but it wasn’t my slowest either. I’m extremely proud of myself for finishing despite the fact that I didn’t train for it. I really have not been motivated, and the fact that winter doesn’t seem to want to leave doesn’t help either.

I have two races coming up so I am training for those. They are: Star Wars half and the Broad Street Run, America’s largest 10-miler and one of my favorite races ever. Stay tuned.

 

 

 

P.S. What’s on your race calendar for 2018?

Don’t Call it a Comeback…running

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…I’ve been here for years. I’m corny, I know. 🙂

Today marks the beginning of my return to running after obtaining clearance from my physical therapist. Since I have not run since November 2016, I will be following Jeff Galloway’s beginner 5K program. Using a run/walk program is a great way to build a training base while reducing the risk of injury.

Jeff Galloway’s 5K program runs 15 weeks and in order to keep me motivated, I’ve registered for the Rescue Run 5K, which occurs at the end of the 15 weeks. Talk about perfect timing, eh? This run benefits The Monster Milers, a shelter dog running and rescue organization in Philadelphia. I’m also excited because it is my first run as a Oiselle Volée runner, a wonderful and supportive community of women.

Plans for this week: (Per Jeff Galloway’s Program)

Monday – Walk or XT

Tuesday – Run 10-15 minutes

Wednesday – Walk or XT

Thursday – Run 10-15 minutes

Friday – Walk or XT

Saturday – Rest Day

Sunday – 1 mile

My XT usually involves taking a class on my Peloton Bike or swim at the gym pool. Stretching/yoga is part of my daily routine, which will aid in my return to running, as well as the recovery process.

Week 1, here I come. Follow my daily journey on Instagram.

Have a great week, and if you’re in the middle of a heat wave (as we are in PA), stay cool.

Brooklyn Half Training – Two Weeks to go!

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I’m getting really excited about running Brooklyn, but first, Broad Street Run.

Everyone knows how much I love running Broad Street. 🙂

Since the Brooklyn Half is coming up two weeks from Sunday, Broad Street will be a training run for me, and will be the last long run before Brooklyn. While it will be tough maintaining a slower pace since the energy from the crowds draw you in and make you forget how fast you’re running, I have to do my best and not focus on what I’m likely to hear afterwards, “But so-and-so finished before you, Lin.” *sigh*

Last week’s run were:

Tuesday: 4 miles

Saturday: 3 miles

Sunday: 8 miles

Sunday was a gorgeous day here in the city of Brotherly Love; a balmy 65 degrees. Ran the 8-mile loop around the Schuylkill River – from Kelly Drive, around the Philadelphia Museum of Art, to Martin Luther King Drive, back to Kelly Drive. I’ve never run this loop before while training, it’s always been while racing, therefore a nice treat where I run to soak it all in and not worry so much about time. As long as my long runs are slower, all is fine with Coach Kristy!

It was a lovely treat to watch college students practicing for the upcoming Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta. I suppose the ones yelling to them from a boat not far upfront were the coaches. Row, Row, Row!

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Mile 3 of this 8-mile run was the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which was crowded with tour buses and there was a huge line to take a photograph with the statue of Rocky Balboa.

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Rear of Philadelphia Museum of Art and Philadelphia Water Works Restaurant and Lounge – view from MLK Drive

Passed the Art Museum and headed over to run down MLK Drive, which was lonely and isolated. Good thing is that once you cross SweetBriar Road, the road is closed all the way to the Falls Bridge on Sunday, I think until 5 PM, but I may be wrong. Anyway, it felt great to get off the concrete sidewalk and give my legs/feet a break by running on the road.

Boathouse Row Philadelphia

Boathouse Row Philadelphia

Stayed strong until mile 7.12 when I “hit the wall.” I got jittery and hungry and walked a bit until 0.5 mile left of my run. Stopped to stretch for a minute and continued on until I reached my car. There, my sister and her recently rescued poodle were waiting for me. He’s so sweet! He was abused and is scared all the time and after a few days, learned to walk on a leash! As a rescue mommy myself, I’m delighted to know she chose a rescue dog.

With Harley at the end of my 8-mile run.

With Harley at the end of my 8-mile run.

Post-run, we headed down to Blackbird Pizzeria for vegan seitan cheezesteaks, the hottest buffalo wings I’ve ever eaten in my life (my mouth is still on fire!), and vegan pizza. I love going there; the people are so nice!

I’m looking forward to meeting up with some of you at the start of this Sunday’s Broad Street Run. I moved back, so I’ll be hanging out in yellow corral. Hydrate, and hydrate well these upcoming days before the race, as it will be a balmy 75 degrees on race day. I personally enjoy water with lemon and cucumbers – it’s so refreshing!

For my friends running Broad Street Run, Pittsburgh Marathon, and Flying Pig, may the wind be at your back!!! Can’t wait to read all of your race recaps!

Lindy x

Finding Motivation as a Runner

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Ok, I’ll admit it: I’m scheduled to run the Disneyland Half in September and I’ve not begun training; I have been plagued with aches and pains, lack of motivation and a whole lot of self-doubt.

You see, I have a love/hate relationship with running, as I’m sure most of us are at some point in our lives. I love the way running makes me feel – watching my body evolve into something I didn’t know it could do, the endorphin-rush, inspiring others to get fit! At times, I struggle getting that first foot out of the door. I fill my head with excuses as to why I shouldn’t run today, why I should sit and catch up on TV shows or simply take a nap. Sometimes, it’s that darn Candy Crush Saga that keeps me from running. I’m done with that!

Surely dealing with this IT band issue has a lot to do with delaying the training for the half marathon. I’m afraid that I’m not fully ready to continue training and that it will just exacerbate the problem. I’ve been working with a chiropractor who believes I need to see a physiotherapist for my ITB issues and that I should cease running. I think I’m firing him 🙂

In favor of running, I have been practicing gentle yoga and sneaking in cross-training by gardening. Trust me, that gardening job is no easy task, my whole body is sore!

Question: So, how do you find motivation as a runner? Do you find it helps running with a group or hiring a running coach for accountability?

Lindy

Broad Street Run ’13 Race Recap

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There’s something a little more special about running in your city.

Yesterday, Cinco de Mayo, the largest 10-mile run in the United States was held here in my backyard; the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia.

I was very excited once I was picked to run this race, but once the date got closer, I became nervous because of its size, but that all changed yesterday.

The Broad Street Run Expo was a two-day event, held at the Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. I had to work on Friday, and so I went on Saturday. I found the expo to be well-organized, and because there were so many people there, at times it felt crowded. Every vendor there was out of red socks!!!

Picked up my bib (not even a minute in line!), then headed to pick up my tee and my goodie bag. Walked around and walked out proud that I had not spent a cent at the Expo. How did that happen? Maybe it was the excitement for the Phillies tailgate party that would soon follow.

Set my alarm for 4:30 AM, which was pointless; I never sleep the night before a race. It’s that nervous/excited feeling. I may have slept 3 hours, if that…

Left early, around 5:30 AM, (leaving my water bottle, bananas and iPhone case at home) and headed to the stadium. I’m glad I arrived early as it was not crowded yet. Walked to the Broad Street Line and a SEPTA worker was checking bibs, (which were your free ride pass) and the ride was about 25 minutes into the Olney Transportation Center.

It was freezing cold and windy, so I hung out at Dunkin’ Donuts to warm up with hot coffee and chat with fellow runners for a bit. Headed to the corrals and found a small group of runners sitting on top of the steam vents and I joined them.

The first corral took off at 8:30 and the pink corral, the last corral, took off at around 9:10. Funny how the clock on the starting line read 47:10 when we crossed it and the winner had already finished!! High-fived Philadelphia Mayor, Michael Nutter at the starting line and was on my way.

I started off slow, annoyed that neither my Garmin was picking up a location or that my Pandora One was not working. The Garmin picked up a signal and kicked in after mile 2 and I just listened to my last half marathon playlist, no big deal.

It was great running past the houses and seeing people bright and early on their steps cheering on us runners. First three miles were not quite downhill but it was flat. I was still in pain, the cold weather wasn’t helping and it took me a bit to warm up. Signed myself up for runner tracking and didn’t get a text once I crossed the 3-mile marker, which left me wondering whether my chip was working.

Once we arrived at Temple University, there were bands playing on the sidewalk, including the Temple Owl mascot. Students cheered from their dormitories and it was loud and exciting! The best part was seeing all the children that were out and about high-fiving us.

A few more blocks and we would be at City Hall. We made that turn at City Hall and right at the corner of Penn Square and Market, in front of La Colombe Torrefaction, was a rock band playing loud, rocking the streets. I was hoping to see Todd Carmichael of La Colombe, but either he wasn’t there or I simply missed him. I’d tell him, “Dude, Corsica is simply genius!”

Right at the corner of Broad and Walnut, in front of the Hyatt at the Bellevue, was former Philadelphia Mayor/former Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell who high-fived me on my way down. That was a nice little energy boost!

What would soon follow were a myriad of spectators, all with their signs and I ran those 3-4 miles simply laughing: “If Broad Street were easy, it would be called your mom!”, “Faster, faster, that’s what she said.” and so on…

Mile 8 and I felt like I’d hit the wall. My legs felt like iron and I couldn’t even open my package of Clif Bloks. Stopped by a water station and the man who handed me water said, “You can do it. 2.2 miles to go”, to which I replied, “Yes, I can do this!” I thanked the volunteers and went on.

Mile 9.5 and a quick glance to my right and there is Peggy, a woman who touched so many and who inspired so many of my Princess Posse friends. I choked up, gave her a hug and got a picture with her. She was in Disney when I ran the Princess Half Marathon but I missed her. She is simply the best spectator ever!!!

Enter the Navy Yard and I’m just a short 0.25 miles from the finish line, but these hips and knees hurt and that last 1/4 mile feels more like 5 miles, just never-ending! Crossed the finish line at 1:57:37. I didn’t have a time goal, I ran to enjoy my city and to have a great time, and I did. I’d be lying if I said that I had more fun at the Disney race.

Lindy with her ugly cry face at the finish line.

I hope to “win the lottery” again next year and run this with 39,999 other runner friends because I’d do this again in a heartbeat. Not a single second did I feel unsafe.

Look who I found on my way back to the car!!! Jog n’ Hog!!!

Thank you to everyone who made this happen.

As ready as I can be

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Five days until the Bucks County Half and I’m feeling a bit nervous. Ok, maybe a lot nervous. Sometimes I wonder the reasons why since I ran a half marathon before, but this is totally different. It’s not knowing what to expect, there will be less runners on the course, me running like a turtle, etc., and of course, my family will be there to cheer me on. I went to run the Princess Half alone and one thing I really wanted was for my family to be there, but circumstances didn’t allow for that. My family at times can be judgmental (you were too slow, blah blah) and I also feel like they (at times) don’t get what a huge accomplishment it is to finish a race, so my mind right now is flooded with worries and ifs.

What to wear, did I load the music on the iPhone, got my Clif Bloks, enough KT Tape??? I’m going to take care of that today. I’m headed to REI soon to pick up some last minute things for Sunday, since I’m working this week and Saturday I’m hosting a dinner at my house for 20! I also need to pick up my race packet on Saturday but maybe I’ll get Frank to go with me 🙂

Since the Princess Half (PHM), I haven’t done a lot of running outdoors because heck, it’s been cold and as you know, that cold air burns the heck out of your lungs. No, thanks! Also, I’ve been having hip IT band issues but I’ve been using the Marathon Stick to loosen tight muscles, taking ibuprofen, drinking loads of H2O and using KT Tape. The pain returns with each run but the recovery time lessens and I find I’m able to push through pain during runs. I hope it behaves on Sunday or I’m going to be dead last.

So needless to say, I’m as ready as I can be. And if I finish last, then I’m last but I finished and supported a cause that’s so important to me, Autism Cares Foundation.