Product Review: Extreme Fit Compression Socks

Disclaimer: I received a selection of Extreme Fit compression socks to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I’m going to come right out and say from the start that I liked these socks. They performed for me the way I expected them to perform. I know that may seem like something that should be obvious with a product like this, but it isn’t a guarantee, ever. Let me begin my saying I thought the level of compression in their running-orientated socks was on the mark. The sock never felt too tight and hugged against my legs and feet the way I wanted it to do. They are also a very soft sock in the feel and it’s as if you don’t even have anything on your feet. Now, Extreme Fit does offer two levels of compression in their socks. They have socks with 15-20 mmHg compression and socks with 20-30 mmHg. Now, what those numbers represent is how much compression the sock will provide for your legs and feet; a tightness level, if you will. So, for runners you would go higher and if you were wearing the sock for traveling or standing at your job all day, the lower number would work for you.

As someone who runs both long and short distances, I found their runner socks to be topnotch and on par, if not better than some other brands out there. Another great option in the runner’s line of socks were ones that had extra amounts of reflective marks on them. Perfect if you are the early riser runner or the dusk runner where it may not be as easy to spot you. And I’m talking some seriously good reflective material.

I’m also a big fan of how many styles Extreme Fit offers on their website. And how they package some of their socks into solo options, 3-packs and even 6-packs! So many options with colors and designs; they even offer some socks with copper-infused fibers inside of them. You would be hard pressed to NOT find a style or color of sock on their site.

And who says that their socks are only for running or walking? Do you work in a hospital? Hair salon? Travel frequently on airplanes or train for work? Do you need compression socks for grocery shopping? Daily chores? Extreme Fit can benefit you with their product. I’ve used them myself when riding my bike, and I’m just relearning how to do that after over 30 years of not riding one.

And don’t think you’re limited to just socks with Extreme Fit. No way, no chance. They have calf sleeves. Arm sleeves. Ankle sleeves. Knee sleeves. Even specialized sleeves if you suffer from plantar fasciitis. They truly are in the business of helping their clientele feel better and perform better.

(Photo credit to https://www.extremefitusa.com/)

Extreme Fit is out to help you with their graduated compression options. Wouldn’t you like to reduce swelling and pain while energizing your feet and legs? All that and you’ll be supporting muscle recovery later. It’s worth it for your body and these socks are definitely a good option to try. And if you decide to TRY NOW, please use code BRP20 to receive 20% off your order of $50 or more. And they currently have a ton of options on sale so you will be making off like a bandit if you order now! Don’t hesitate, these are a great option if you require compression socks on your athletic journey. I’ve loved the pairs I’ve tested and have felt very comfortable in them as well as comfortable AFTER my runs or bike rides.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to send them to me. I’ll be happy to answer them for you!

As always, Happy Running!

Sponsor Review: Raley’s Supermarkets, SPONSOR of the Napa Valley Marathon

Disclaimer: I received a $25 gift card to review Raley’s Supermarkets as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Now, that the Napa Valley Marathon is over it is NOT the time to neglect your body and all you did to prepare for that race. It’s been a week since you ran, so you need to make sure you not only rest but keep putting fuel into your body. Specifically, recovery fuel. And, yes, Raley’s can help you in that department as well. Visit their website to see how simple it is to find exactly what you’re looking for and how to spot it in the store. They have every category for you from Clean Label to Gut Health to Organic to Keto-Friendly. And everything in between too!

Post marathon is an important time for the body. There’s a lot of recovery going on so be sure to take advantage of Raley’s nutrition strategist who provides the necessary tips and information to make your marathon experience not only enjoyable on race day but afterwards as well. I mean, you need to prep for that next marathon!

I hope you take the time to visit Raley’s website and utilize all the free information, tips and advice they offer as well as visit the store and stock your pantry with some great products that fit whatever need you may have in your dietary lifestyle.

Happy running!

Sponsor Review: Raley’s Supermarkets – SPONSOR of the Napa Valley Marathon

Disclaimer: I received a $25 gift card to review Raley’s Supermarkets role as a sponsor for the Napa Valley Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

OK, raise your hand if you like grocery shopping. There’s never a “good” time to go and do it. There are always so many distractions of foods you need not be buying and then there’s the challenge of finding the right food for you. Throw in that you’re training for a race and need the right nutrition to supplement your hard work and it can be a nightmare! And that’s where a business like Raley’s comes into play. They sponsor the Napa Valley Marathon so they can better help their runners get associated with a healthy diet and the right foods to provide the energy they’ll need to have a successful race experience. So, how do they do it?

One of the best features the within the store itself offers is what it calls “Shelf Guide Icons” that are located throughout the store. Each of these icons makes it easier (and more time efficient) for you, the shopper, to get in and get out and get what you need. Some of the icons used include: Plant-Based, Organic, Keto Friendly, Clean Label, No Sugar Added, Carb Friendly, High in Protein and Gluten Free. Obviously, this make it easier for you to navigate quickly through the store and acquire the foods you need/want that will assist you in your race preparation.

Another amazing option provided by Raley’s is their Run Smart! nutritional campaign. They GIVE you the tips and suggestions to have a great race experience and how to properly train for the race, what to do to take care of yourself during the race and, finally, what you need to do at the completion of your race.

This is how you sponsor a race! Raley’s has it down pat and has your back for the Napa Valley Marathon. And, more importantly, they have your health on their mind. They are there to suggest, to help or just to assist in any way.

I suggest you take a look at some of my Bib Rave Pro friends who have also contributed blogs discussing the benefits of Raley’s Supermarkets and how they work hard to make your race day experience a great one.

https://theswagmama.com/2020/02/01/grocery-shopping-love-it-or-loathe-it/

http://ampdwellness.crazyhamster.run/grocery-shopping-yay-or-nay/?preview=true&_thumbnail_id=6604

http://www.thisoldrunner.com/blog/need-help-eating-right-before-during-and-after-a-race-try-raleys-nutrition-guide

Hope you enjoy their viewpoints and notes!

And, as always, happy running!

 

 

Race Review: Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon

What a race, what an event and what a city! OK, I knew the city was badass already before the race but this was my first visit to Las Vegas that wasn’t just for gambling and drinking. This had purpose and, therefore, I needed to behave and not get too involved with the excess that is Vegas. This is a race I’ve been excited to do for a while; a destination race that had been on my bucket list. And it did not disappoint! Running down the Strip with various bands playing all types of music from rock n roll to old Vegas crooners to Elvis classics, all with the bright neon lights brightening up the course was simply magical. The crowds on the Strip were lively with their cheers and the starting line was electric as each wave was released onto the course with a giant fire display pulsing up from the start line overhang.

EXPO QUALITY: The expo was easy to get to; just had to jump on the monorail and it dropped you off right by the Las Vegas Convention Center. I went on Friday afternoon and there was no line to get my bib so that was really quick. After that, I perused several rows of race merchandise and Brooks shoes too. Bought the special race designed Brooks Launch and a pair of the new Adrenaline GTS 20s since they were 15% off; couldn’t pass that up! I also grabbed a couple of other items in the merchandise area before heading out to the vendors. I need to make a racing list from this point forward as I realized at the expo I had forgotten a couple of items at home, so a new running belt for storage was needed as well as some fuel for the race. The forgetting of the fuel was more frustrating than anything since I had just restocked at home, but, oh well. Lots of vendors to go through, from Honey Stinger to Geico to Knockaround to many others. Lots of photo options as well in front of signs such as #StripatNight and Vegas Strong.

T-shirts/SWAG: A fun race shirt that was made to match whatever distance you were running for the race. The medal for the race was also pretty cool with a Strip design and at the top a spinning wheel that has the date of the race and the distance you competed at.

Parking Access: No parking really. But most people stayed on the Strip or nearby. And if you lived in the area, Uber/Lyft/taxis were suggested to use to get to the start line.

Aid Stations: The volunteers at the aid stations were 1005 awesome! Shouting out cheers and support at every one. Full of enthusiasm. They were one of the best parts of the entire race. Loud enough to know where water was, where Gatorade was, when there were gels or bananas., just so helpful.

Course Scenery: The Strip was awesome to run down and through, and even heading towards downtown Las Vegas was pretty nice, going past wedding chapels and some smaller casinos. There were some quiet parts on the course as well, not well-lit and more residential, but, where they could, the organizers put bands out in those places as well to keep you grooving.

Elevation Difficulty: Moderate if you did ran the marathon, none at all if you ran shorter distances. The marathon was the only distance that had elevation. When you headed away from the Strip the course had you run over the freeway system and circle back a few times so there were a couple of going uphill, but nothing too strenuous.

Race Management: Plenty of communication in the months leading up to the race. A lot of help at the expo answering questions. As I previously stated, the volunteers were amazing and prepped excellently. The starting line was smooth as was the Start Village, where all runners congregated prior to going into the corrals. The finish line was perfect with not every handout right next to one another; they provided space for you to collect yourself and your free items as you walked along to the exit point.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon was a great race, plain and simple. I had a blast and I would highly suggest that this be the race you aim to run in this series if only for the opportunity to run the Strip at night.

Madison Mini Marathon Training Update

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Madison Mini Marathon race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Well, this is going to be the most boring update you could ever possibly read. Ever since the wondrous month of April where I set personal bests in my marathon finish time and in my 5K finish time, I have done almost nothing in the last six weeks. I ran twice in the  month of May, accumulating just over 13 miles for the month and so far zero miles for the month of June. Why? Because of what is likely a sports hernia.

No, I am not making a self-diagnosis here. I waited those first couple of weeks in May doing nothing and then attempted to run. After having pain and discomfort return almost immediately, I shelved myself again and made a doctor’s appointment. The doc did some tests and said it wasn’t a hernia as far as he could tell but that it was likely a sports hernia. I was also given the card of a hernia specialist if I wanted to be absolutely positive of the diagnosis. So, what have I been doing instead? Well, a lot more lifting with upper body (carefully) and some lower body (even more carefully), some bike riding at the gym and, finally, walking. Lots of walking.

Lots and lots of walking….

As you can see, I’ve tried to keep my humor up with these walks but it hasn’t been easy. It has been extremely frustrating and I am close to losing my mind. This is not how I envisioned my Madison Mini Marathon training taking place. I am not in the danger zone yet, but it is getting close to where I will not be prepared by mid-August for this half marathon (where I was greedily hoping to set another personal best.) It is Wednesday, June 12, today and I plan to run or attempt to run before the end of this week. This is mainly to see if I have healed enough. If I have not, then I plan to call the specialist to see what is going on and if I will be healed and ready to race by August. Worst case scenario then would be I could run it but it would be for fun and nothing else. Fingers will be crossed. I’m just really sick of walking at this point. And don’t let the smile fool you, haha.

If you’ve been running and training out there, maybe you’d like to race the Madison Mini Marathon this August! It isn’t too late to sign up! And if you use code BIBRAVE5 at checkout you will save $5 on your entry! Hopefully we will run this together!

If you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to ask or comment!!

Happy Running (or walking)!!

Race Recap: Milwaukee Marathon

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Milwaukee Marathon race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

The 2019 incarnation of the Milwaukee Marathon (under new management and sponsorship) was an a great success in my opinion! After taking 2018 off from the race schedule and retooling a ton, they chose to have the race in April instead of the previous years’ choice of October: smart move since early April is less busy race-wise than October. I ran the full marathon this time (2017 I ran the 10K and 2016 the half) and I really enjoyed myself; more than I expected to with this race. So, let’s get to the meat of this review!

Expo Quality: Packet pickup was really easy (I arrived around 1:30pm so the crowd was light) and was held the day before the race. It was held at the Fiserv Forum’s (Milwaukee Bucks home, they were also a big sponsor) lobby area. You had to pick up on this day unless you chose to do day-of but that had an extra cost to it. The line was quick and the volunteers seemed to know that there must have been an issue with Wi-Fi and the Q-code since I couldn’t get my e-mail to pop up but they were more than ready to just look up my name and get me on my way. The rest of the expo was kind of blah and I hope that future years have it become bigger and have more vendors. I know this year was kind of a make-good year for the event so hopefully this will change. There were booths for a local running store, Performance Running Outfitters, Supernola (a granola company), and a couple of other local races had booths set up. That was it. And the table for you to pick up your t-shirt (I will cover this in the Swag category). Outside of the Fiserv, there was the opportunity to see where the Gear Check would be located and multiple areas where they had set up tons of Port-o-Potties (always important to know on race day).

 

Parking Access: I found it simple, but more expensive than I liked. You could have signed up ahead of time for the parking lot near the start of the race. I did not do this but I also knew there would be plenty of parking all around the area and had no problem finding a spot.

 

Course Scenery: The start of the race going through downtown was nice as was the early miles along the lakefront and back into downtown (only drag here was the day was dreary with no sun so a heavy fog was sitting all over the lake, not an exciting view, but there was one hell of an energetic spectator on a bridge cheering/roaring at all runners as they passed both times). After returning into downtown, for the full, you raced through Marquette University’s campus and into the suburbs and neighborhoods of Milwaukee. There were some very quiet moments in this, the largest, stretch of the race but there were also plenty of pleasant surprises. The Washington Park area was full of boisterous people and there were other spots along the course where the neighbors busted out speakers or their cars for blaring music. Good positive energy at the right time. And then the end of the race had you finish back where you started at the Fiserv Forum where a ton of screaming fans and event staff were waiting for you.

(photo courtesy of Milwaukee Marathon)

One of the fun parts of this race was competing with other runners. Now, of course, during a marathon you are really only competing with yourself but you also set other runners as markers for how you are doing or as goals to reach. I was nicknamed “Orange” by a couple who were running together and were keeping me in their sites as they went along. I did manage to beat the husband but his wife blew past me around mile 24 1/2 to finish ahead of me. At the end we congratulated each other and she said all she needed to do was make sure “Orange” was within view to be sure she was running the race she wanted.

(photo courtesy of Milwaukee Marathon)

Aid Stations: All had water at one end of them and Nuun hydration at the other end, easy to decipher which was which as volunteers were consistently shouting what they had. At some stops there were Honey Stinger gels to consume if need be. I thought the variety of volunteers at the stations was incredible! From Marquette students to kids that looked like they might have been in 3rd or 4th grade and all in between, everyone did a fabulous job!

Elevation Difficulty: There was one major hill in the early part of the race that was a winding path up to an area called the Water Tower along the lakefront. Of course, after going up that, you got to come back down on another hill. That wasn’t so bad at that point. There was a subtle but long hill that took you out of the city (if running the full) that went up Wisconsin Avenue. Positive part of this hill was this is where you were returning for the end of the race, so that was nice. But the killers (for me) were these little up and downs that were consistent for a bunch of the race between miles 17-21. Nothing major but you were going up a little bit, then down a little bit, then back up, etc. My legs were not enjoying that very much. And then as you rounded the last turn of the race to the finish line, you had one more minor incline as you go across a city bridge. That’s near mile 26 and I wasn’t a fan of that, haha.

T-Shirt/Swag: OK, bear with me on this. So, everyone gets a “Finisher” shirt at pickup (should be handed to you at the end of the race but whatever) and anyone who was running the half or full also received a 1/4 zip fleece. It’s ok, nothing to write home about and not something I would run in. You receive a medal which isn’t too bad, showing a silhouette of the city on part of it and the ribbon around it says what distance you ran. Also, at the finish, there was more water, Nuun, a banana, some Supernola granola, Honey Stinger waffles and you received a free beer too (Miller Lite or Coors Light). Now, something else you received and I must include it is with your medal, you could go into the nearby Good City Brewing spot and order what you wanted and get 20% off your bill. I thought that was pretty cool.

Race Management: They did a phenomenal job, for the most part. They had a tough crowd to not only impress but convince to come back from the 2017 debacle. So, this race was more a test run than the real deal, I think. I had heard of a lot of people staying away to first see how this “new” race was going to go. Well, they nailed it and hopefully will be back even bigger and better next year. From the gear check (which was quick and well-run with plenty of volunteers) to the pre-race energy to the post race party which had music and Bango (Bucks mascot) riding around taking pics on his Segway, they had stuff figured out.

The area for pre race/post race was a little cramped but next year there will easily be more space available once the old arena is taken down. I also would have liked to see a PR bell to ring somewhere (if there was one, I didn’t see it or hear it) because many people, including myself, had great races and PR’d their distance. I would have loved this considering I smashed my race out of the park, but there hopefully will be a next time! But overall, they did a great job with pre-race communication and how race day would shake out. They provided a list of 8 or 9 other parking lots to go to aside from the main one they were promoting. This race had a low bar, for sure, to get to due to 2017, but they catapulted themselves well above that bar to a point that this can become a preeminent race for Milwaukee and Wisconsin if they keep up this support and dedication for it. I highly recommend participating in it next year, at any distance. You won’t be disappointed.

Happy running all!! (Check me out on Instagram @pktirish to read the brief story about the picture above!)

Review: Food Groove Mission Super Food Bites

Disclaimer: I received an order of Food Groove Mission Super Bites to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I usually don’t go out to stores and buy food products such as these mainly because I’ve had bad experiences with “natural” foods and have disliked the taste of them quite a bit. But I have to admit these are different. They actually taste pretty darn good and they’re full of healthy ingredients too! There are three flavors to choose from: The Nutty Adventurer, Holy Truffle Punch and Mother Earth.

The Nutty Adventurer is exactly how it sounds. Organic peanut butter is the main ingredient that differs from the other two options. What I liked most about this one was it was more than just peanut butter in taste. It’s there, for sure, but it doesn’t dominate the flavor of the bite.

Holy Truffle Punch is for the chocolate lover in all of us. Organic dark chocolate and organic cacao nibs are the two key ingredients to provide that chocolate “punch” and make this super bite just plain delicious. Just take a look at the other ingredients in these. (Picture provided by the Food Groove Mission website)

Finally, Mother Earth, the flavor that has turned out to be my favorite (which shocks me completely!) beating out chocolate and peanut butter, which is insane! Mother Earth is full of so many amazing flavors, such as dates, goji berries, golden berries, chia seeds and pumpkin seeds (and more), all organic of course!

Food Groove Mission has done a great job with these Super Food Bites. A small company out of Dallas, they wanted runners and triathletes to not only have a healthy, filling snack but for it to be portable and an easy on-the-go treat packed with energy ingredients. Another plus: they can be enjoyed by everyone! Gluten free, non-GMO, dairy free, soy free and grain free is what you get with all three options! (Holy Truffle Punch and Mother Earth are also paleo friendly)

These are worth a try and you shouldn’t miss out on a great deal right now! Use code “BIBRAVE15” for 15% off an entire order (one use per customer). Trust someone who was not a fan of snacks like this before, these have great flavor and provide great energy for whatever athletic feat you are attempting that day! Good stuff!

Any questions or thoughts, please feel free to ask or comment!

Happy Running!

 

Milwaukee Marathon Training: Weeks 5-8

Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Milwaukee Marathon race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Here is another update to the training I have been completing throughout the weeks leading up to what will be my fourth marathon. It’s been up and down with my miles and the unexpected trip that I had to take, which was completed at the start of this week. So, here goes with the details of my training! Oh, and remember to use code “RUN15” to save 15% on your race entry, any distance!!

WEEK 5 – January 14 – January 20

MONDAY: Flew home from CT

TUESDAY: 42 minutes of yoga, 46 minute shoulder workout, 35 minutes on the treadmill for 4.4 miles

WEDNESDAY: 35  min abs workout, 20 min treadmill for 2.66 miles

THURSDAY: 43 min back workout, 23 min elliptical

FRIDAY: 111 min outdoor run for 12.46 miles

SATURDAY: Shoveled Snow

SUNDAY: Samson Stomp 5K for 3.26 miles

TOTAL MILES: 22.78 miles

WEEK 6 – January 21 – January 27

MONDAY: 40 min chest workout, bike for 20 minutes

TUESDAY: 43 min yoga, 31 min treadmill for 3.79 miles

WEDNESDAY: Shoveled snow

THURSDAY: 40 min arm workout, 12 min treadmill for 1.47 miles

FRIDAY:  126 min very cold outdoor run for 12.83 miles

SATURDAY: 5 min elliptical, 35 min shoulder workout, 20 min treadmill for 2.49 miles

SUNDAY: Rest Day

TOTAL MILES: 20.58 miles

WEEK 7 – January 28 – February 3

MONDAY: Shoveled snow for 80 minutes

TUESDAY: 45 min of yoga, 51 min back workout, 26 min bike, 32 min treadmill for 4.02 miles

WEDNESDAY: -30 degree temps had me stay home

THURSDAY: 50 min chest workout, 20 min bike, 34 min treadmill for 4.29 miles

FRIDAY: 30 min arm workout, 18 min elliptical, 10 min abs workout

SATURDAY: 142 min outdoor run for 14 miles

SUNDAY: Rest Day

TOTAL MILES: 22.31 miles

WEEK 8 – February 4 – February 10

MONDAY: 50 min leg workout, 15 min treadmill for 1.75 miles

TUESDAY: 47 min of yoga, 33 min treadmill for 3.94 miles

WEDNESDAY: 55 min back workout, 32 min bike, 20 min elliptical, shoveled snow

THURSDAY: 30 min shoulder workout, 30 min treadmill for 3.80 miles

FRIDAY: 22 min bike, 24 min treadmill for 2.81 miles

SATURDAY: 151 minute outdoor run for 15.05 miles

SUNDAY: Rest Day

TOTAL MILES: 27.35 miles

And there you have it. I’m not where I would like to be and the last two weeks’ long runs were not very good. Poor would be the best word to describe them. I had a tired leg feeling on both of them and that is not a good thing. Training is smack in the middle and here I am wanting a break. Thankfully, it doesn’t seem to be injury related so that is the one positive. But April 6 is still coming no matter what and I need to be ready for the Milwaukee Marathon.

Any questions about my training, feel free to ask!! Happy running!

I Ran the New York City Marathon!

Oh boy, it’s taken me some time to finally write about this run, this event, this marathon. So much to take in that day. The start. The race. The grind. The finish. Everything was so amazing. If you like there is a version of a race review for you at BibRave.com. Check it out and other races I’ve reviewed should you have interest in trying them out! So, from here, let’s start from the beginning.

Saturday was my day to visit the expo and, wow, what a fun time that was! So many vendors to browse through. The excitement of picking up my bib. The great gear at the New Balance satellite store. And finding my name on the runner’s wall in the Bronx section! (Appropriate being a Yankees fan)

Sleeping that night was difficult but the night before a race is always tough for me. Too gigged up. I had all of my gear ready rock the next day, even my AfterShokz Trekz Air, although I wasn’t sure I would even use them. (I didn’t)

And then the morning came and quickly. I managed to wake up, eat and get dressed. I hustled down to catch the subway but just missed it. So I had to wait 16 minutes for the next one, which in turn made me miss my slotted Staten Island Ferry time. Good thing they weren’t being strict about that (which I had heard the day before they were not) and I was able to jump on one just as I got off the train when I did arrive at the ferry station. After the hour long ferry ride, there was another line to wait in; this time for the bus to be carted over to the start line village.

The starting line village was impressive. I wasn’t expecting all the amenities besides the usual bag check area and porto potty’s, which there were plenty of those! No, there was several tables set up with various services and sponsors. Bagels to fuel up as well as Gatorade gels lined up to eat then or grab for the race. Dunkin Donuts provided coffee. Another table had hot chocolate for people. And there were medical tents set up for any last minute wraps or creams, etc that may be needed for the runners. Really cool. After munching on a bagel and a small water, I made my way to my starting corral.

After some time to stretch and loosen up , we started to move our way to the start line. We then were revved up by the announcer as everyone was just all jazzed up to get moving across the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. And, after a loud booming blast, we were off and running. I knew the bridge was going to be slow going for the start so I took it easy and snapped off a couple of pics just for the memory of the moment.

Once coming down from the bridge into Brooklyn, the race was on! I enjoyed every minute of it. Going through all those city streets with so many people screaming and shouting was so motivating. Each time you moved onto a new borough you had someone yelling out welcome to wherever (I distinctly recall a woman welcoming me to Queens and a DJ welcoming everyone into the Bronx.) The weather was nice and I had a good pace until mile 19 when I suffered some pain in my inner hamstring. That caused me to have to pause along the rest of the way (usually on inclines) and stretch out the area. That ended up costing me some time and ultimately the mental goal I had set for myself; not by much but I still missed it because of these stops.

And then the greatest part of the race (of any race, right?) was heading into Central Park and going for that finish line. What a moment! What a feeling! All those people again cheering wildly giving that extra push and motivation. Seeing friends and family along the route was a thrill and exciting and just so supportive. Crossing the finish line was a wonderful feeling and I certainly grabbed that right away.

I was exhausted. I left a little something on those streets, I can honestly say that. I lowered my head to accept a well-earned medal. Then it was a struggle stretching out some of those muscles as I walked along to pick up my post race bag of water, etc and then further down to get my personal bag since I used the bag check option. After that was when I started to cool down from the race. The sun was setting and that added to the chill. I had my heat wrap but that only does so much. I sat for a brief moment so I could give my back a stretch before heading out of the park. What a day, what a day.

If you are given the chance to run the New York City Marathon, do not pass it up. The only reason not to run would be because of injury. Otherwise, just for the experience, you owe it to do it if possible. I’m so glad I was given the opportunity to run this race. Lifetime moment for sure, and when else am I going to get my name in the New York Times!

Happy running!

The Unexpected Setback

Injuries. Sometimes they are from overuse of a joint or muscle. Other times they come about from a random accident while out on a run; something that is unavoidable or, maybe, you are trying to avoid something. And then there is the absolute bizarre injury. You know, the one that is embarrassing to share with others. The one that occurs just as you are starting to train for a major race in the future. Yeah, that happened to me recently and it sucks.

This past weekend near the end of a friendly wiffle ball game the freak of nature hit me. It’s the end of the game, I’m pitching and there are two outs. There’s a foul ball. I go to retrieve it. I pick it up and head back to the pitching area (this was front yard wiffle ball action, lol). On the way back, I step down onto where first base is; unfortunately, first base had pushed itself to a section where it covered half walkway and half lower garden area. I step down full body weight while wearing my Birkenstock sandals and, wow, was there pain. There was a sound that came from my ankle/foot area that can be described as twine or rope being stretched across a log. I immediately fell down, writhing in pain. I am positive this would not have been as bad had I simply been wearing some sort of stable footwear. But I wasn’t and now here I am three plus days later not being able to do anything active on this foot. No Sunday morning run. No Tuesday post yoga run. No elliptical machine. And by the end of the day at work, my foot is begging to get out of my shoe and have some ice on it. Sigh.

Patience is not one of my strong suits but I need it now more than ever. I am hopeful that only a couple more days stand in the way of me being able to run again. I hate not being able to run, hell, even walk at a faster pace. Instead, I am gimping along. I know it isn’t some big worldly problem. It’s really minor in scope. But dammit, I have a major marathon to train for and this piddly preventable setback is not good.

OK, that’s all I have to vent. Hopefully all of you are injury free and enjoying the beautiful weather out there to get in some runs or stretching or whatever exercises please you the most.

Happy Running!