Cox Providence Half Marathon 2013 – updated

Posted on May 12, 2013 by DrRachelRuns

Updated! I added the elevation profile, by popular demand.

Today, I ran in the UnitedHealthcare Cox Providence Half Marathon. It was not a great day. It was one of those runs were nothing works – it’s just too bad it happened during a race.

The day was dark, cool, and rainy. At race start it was 60 degrees with 100% humidity. It was foggy, grey, and sprinkling off and on. I appreciated the cool temperatures and overcast sky, but wasn’t very excited about the rain. High humidity is asthmatic hell, so I knew it would be a tough race. I got to the parking area bright and early and headed for the “Exchange Terrace” area, a little street across from a park where they have an ice skating area in the winter. According to my pre-race email and attached instructions, packet pickup was on Exchange Terrace. I wandered around for a little while, totally lost. There were lots of people, but not a volunteer in sight. There was no one to ask for help and no sign of an obvious packet pick up area. Finally, I saw someone with a goody bag and asked. Packet pick up was in the ballroom of the Omni Hotel, a block away. I walked on over to the Omni and waited in line. Wrong line. I waited in a second line and got my bib. When I got to the t-shirt station, a not-that-friendly volunteer barked “Only larges left. You want one?” Resigned, I accepted my large, men’s shirt. Not quite the extra small I was hoping for. Everyone around me milled around in a state of confused disappointment. No one got the shirt they wanted and all of us were lost. There were no volunteers to help. I pinned my bib and followed the crowd, hoping they would lead me to the starting line. They did and I got there with 15 minutes to spare until the 8am race start. It’s definitely a post-Boston world. I noticed lots of security staff. Men with huge guns wandered in the crowd, police were stationed on rooftops.

8:05 passed, then 8:10. There was no sign of an imminent race start. At 8:13 someone sang the national anthem. The crowd was getting restless. All of the pre-race materials had said 8am start. Thousands of people were standing in the rain. Finally, at 8:17 (?) the race was underway.

The first four miles went well. I was cruising along and feeling soggy, but fine. I’ve been having some trouble with my knee (the had-surgery one) and it began to stiffen up. It doesn’t like the rain, and really doesn’t like changes in atmospheric pressure. The front rolling through was not a friend to my knee. My poor knee was stuck in a half-bent state, totally stiff and not straightening well in the forward part of my stride. I didn’t think it was too much of a problem until mile 7, when my calf and hamstring started cramping. Not dehydrated cramping, but weird muscle spasm/charlie horse cramping. I resolved to slow down and start walking the water stops. A side note on water stops. What a mess! The pre-race guide said water stops would be every mile and a half. No such luck. There didn’t seem to be much of a pattern to the water stops, only that they were about 2+ miles apart. Most were understaffed, a volunteer or two per table, so runners were pouring their own water. There was no pattern to the Gatorade/water distribution. Sometimes Gatorade was first, sometimes not, and sometimes it was all mixed together with both in one area and in the same style cups. The cup styles weren’t even consistent so there was chaos at every water station. Runners were coming to a full stop to search for and find a cup that had the right liquid in it. It was a volunteer staffing and organizational problem.

I felt wheezy and asthmatic. The humidity was not kind to my asthma or my knee. The wheels fell off at mile 9. My leg muscles were firing at all the wrong times. I couldn’t seem to get them to coordinate with the bending of my knee. I felt like Phoebe from Friends when she runs in the park. I’m sure I looked normal, but I felt miserable. I trudged along. I’m sad to say there was a lot of walking while I tried to get things under control and avoid running with a limp. This race wasn’t worth an injury, or angering my funny IT band attachment point, so I slowed WAY down to avoid limping.

The course itself was well-marked, but poorly staffed. There were no medical tents or personnel along the course. The few volunteers I did see at points in the course other than the water stops were children. Children young enough that I began to wonder where their parents were and why their parents were letting them stand on a street corner on a race course in arguably questionable neighborhoods. There were plenty of police offices at major road crossings, but few volunteers. The course itself was winding, and passed through a few attractive, and a few unattractive areas of Providence and Pawtucket. Compared to the Rock N Roll Providence course, this course was more older neighborhoods with less gentrification.

Finally, mercifully, the race course curved past the river (there were swans!) and toward the finish line. I was grateful for the race to be over, but sorry to see the report from my Garmin (thank goodness I had my Garmin since the clocks were all set to the marathon time, not half). I was headed to a Personal Worst. Now, I’m always happy to run a slow race and pace a friend, or be sensible when I’m undertrained, but this PW hurt. I am fit. I tapered. I ate well. I got plenty of sleep. I don’t know what went wrong. Other than a perfect storm of bad weather + asthma + knee stiffness + muscle problems, I don’t have an explanation.

I’m still a little sad about the race. I don’t know what went wrong. I’ll go back to my training log and look for a lesson, but this just might be one race in which the lesson is that sometimes running is random. Sometimes a run just doesn’t work. Today was one of those days.

The look of resignation. A PW.

Updated – here is the elevation profile.

Cox Providence Rhode Race Elevation Profile – Half Marathon

Mini Race Recap: Hartford 1/4 Marathon

Posted on April 6, 2013 by DrRachelRuns

The Greater Hartford Quarter Marathon, hosted by the Hartford Track Club and benefitting Blazeman Foundation for ALS, was a great race. With wonderful weather, a big group of friends, and a beautiful course, it was just about perfect.

The race course is a two-loop course run around the paved trails in the MDC Reservoir in West Hartford. It’s a gorgeous course. The first couple (and middle couple since it’s a loop) miles have a number of what we New Englanders call “rollers”, gradual hills that make for a smooth up and down experience.

About 2 (and 4.5) miles into the race, the course comes around a bend, giving runners a picturesque view of the runners ahead as they pass beyond a lake and around a curve. It was gorgeous. The sun was shining on the water and the birds were chirping. Beautiful! The course was extremely well marked, with accurate mile signs and sand markings noting the course direction. It would be difficult to go the wrong way given that the course is a well-planned loop on paved trails. A runner would have to work hard to get lost in this one. The wooded views were magnificent and the lakes, ponds, and reservoir areas were the picture of New England beauty.

To check out the pictures from the event, head on over to the event’s Facebook page.

Details for Rachel’s outfit, above: Lululemon Pace Crops in black/frond, Lululemon Rise and Shine Pullover in frond, Lululemon Speed Demon Run Hat (best hat ever, by the way – it has a short, curvy brim that keeps sun out of your eyes from the side!), and Brooks Pure Flow shoes

Race Recap: Gasparilla Day 2

Posted on March 4, 2013 by DrRachelRuns

Last week, mom and I participated in the super fun, two-day Gasparilla Distance Classic. Missed my recap of Day 1? Check it out here. After having tons of fun on Day 1, mom and I ate at our favorite downtown Tampa eatery, Taco Bus, and then headed to the hotel for an early night – me tucked in tight with my compression socks on. In the morning, the fog was heavy, humidity high, and temperatures warm. The dawn of the half marathon felt like inferno temperatures to this New Englander (real temperature at race start: 76 with 98% humidity).

The course for the Gasparilla Half Marathon is lovely. The first 5 miles are run on Davis Island, an exclusive enclave of modest homes with beautiful views of a harbor. Too bad the entire 5 miles on David Island are run in the dark… but there are cheering residents and plenty of on course entertainment. The entrance to and exit from Davis Island present the only real “hills” on the course. The sole hill is the bridge that transports runners to and from David Island. After Davis Island, the course heads straight down Bayshore Boulevard, with its stately homes and waterfront views. On half marathon morning, I couldn’t see much of anything. The haze from the humidity was so thick, it was difficult to see the scenery. Six or seven miles into the race I was sweating buckets and feeling quite overheated. In fact, in the professional pictures I could see rivers of sweat running down all my limbs. Not a cute look.

Thankfully, at around mile eight, the runners reach the turnaround and head back on Bayshore toward the finish line. I was delighted. The humidity was easing and the sun was coming out. Though the weather was warming up (to the high of 86, 85% humidity), the break in the humidity was a great help for me. I intentionally slowed my pace so that I could be prepared for the 5+3k that I would do with my mom immediately after finishing the half marathon. At the finish line I was handed an icy cold washcloth (immense joy!), a banana, a super cool pirate medal (!), and a bottle of water. I skipped the real food and looped around to get in line with mom for the 5+3k.

It was hot, hot, hot, but we were ready for 5 miles of fun. If I’m being honest, by the time the 5+3k started, I was sick of Bayshore Boulevard. Running along the same route 8 times in two days was a little tedious, but, of all the routes that I might run 8 times in a row, this is one that I would pick. It really is very pretty.

My legs were shot, but I had 5 more miles to go, so I clutched my little washcloth and set off for the staging corrals with mom. She walks really, really fast. I had to jog to keep up, and she set a blistering pace. In no time at all we were rounding the corner and heading back. I couldn’t believe our race weekend was coming to a close. Before I knew it, we were in the finish chute and handed medals, food, and drinks. It was over. I had so much fun that it seemed to be over in a flash. The finish chute was efficient and organized and I was shuffled along in my slightly delirious state. The finish line highlight was the rice and black beans from my favorite Spanish restaurant, Columbia. Yum!

Beans! (and check out my super cool pirate medal)

All in all, mom and I had a wonderful time. The Gasparilla courses are beautiful, and the races are well organized and supported. The Gasparilla Distance Classic team really knows how to put on a great event. I recommend any, or all, of the races wholeheartedly.

Race Recap: Gasparilla Day 1

Posted on March 3, 2013 by DrRachelRuns

Last week, mom and I had a wonderful time at the Gasparilla Distance Classic. Our path to Gasparilla fun started last year. Last year, mom and I did the 5k and immediately after the 5k, mom said she had a great time and wanted to participate in 2013. Soon enough, registration day rolled around. I called mom to confirm that she wanted to run in the 5+3k (the Gasparilla version of a 5 miler) and she surprised me by suggesting that we both sign up for challenges. Gasparilla offers three challenges – events in which one runs multiple races during the two-day festival. Mom signed up for the Mini Challenge and I signed up for the Ultra Challenge. Mom would do the 15k and 5+3k and I would do all four races – the 15k, 5k, half marathon, and 5+3k. Yay!

After quickly and easily getting our gear at the race expo, we explored the shops. Everything at the expo was well organized and helpful volunteers were everywhere. We got some super cute loot.

Race day dawned bright, sunny, and humid. It was a hazy start to the day with high humidity and warm temperatures expected. We had stayed in a nearby hotel and were ready to go bright at early. We did have a few challenges with the water situation – the city of Tampa was in a boil water advisory thanks to a mischievous squirrel gnawing through a power line. Undeterred, we used our bottled water and headed to the starting line. As usual, everything at Gasparilla was exceptionally well organized. We easily made our way to the start line. There were rows of port-potties, helpful volunteers, and clear signage.

The 15k was really fun. The course was lovely. It was an easy down and back on Bayshore Boulevard – gorgeous homes on one side, the river on the other side, and the city of Tampa in clear view. The course was well supported, with aid stations every mile and a half. There were cheering fans, friendly volunteers, and clear course markings. I loved the course.

Mom had this to say about her first 15k:

The first race on Saturday morning was a 15 K, Rachel and I were doing it together dressed in matching Lululemon shirts. Usually I’m a person who likes to check out the route and the maps so I know where to go but this isn’t necessary at Gasparilla . We followed the crowd, stood around people who were weren’t wearing a Garmin, looking as if they might’ve dressed without looking in the mirror that morning (the back of the pack). A roar and we were off shuffling slowly to the front and then finally the pack opened up and Bayshore was before us. The Boulevard is lined with huge homes that overlook Tampa Bay making it a beautiful route. There was music and people cheering, encouraging those of us at the back of the pack. It seemed a long time to get to the turn around and then suddenly we were on our way back towards the finish line. Rachel kept me on my goal pace as my legs got tired and I began to wonder where the finish line went. People were cheering louder as we neared the finish. Rachel and I made the short dash and it was fantastic! I did a 15K! A finishers medal was mine and I wore it proudly.

Here’s what I learned:

1. Don’t sweat, there’s always someone to direct people.
2. You can pretty much tell just by looking, where you should be in the starting lineup.
3. Make use of the bathroom before the race and the water stops during the race.
4. Take time to look at the view, the race is over before you know it.
5. Have someone take your picture after you cross the finish line. There’s a certain smile that comes from people who successfully cross that line.

I had such a good time I’m already signed up for my next race. It’s in October, a half marathon. Let the training begin! (Go Mom!!)

Mom and I finished the 15k with smiles on our faces and I immediately lined up for the 5k. The 5k course was the same as the 15k course, just shorter. So, I headed back out, passing the same homes and scenery as the first race. I hadn’t made it back for the start of the wave of the 5 I was supposed to be in, so I trotted along in a much slower wave. I enjoyed the chance to take it slow and enjoy the view.

Both races were wave start, with very well organized starting lines and plenty of volunteers to ensure things went smoothly. The courses were well marked, properly supported, and extremely scenic. Overall, I loved Gasparilla Day 1. Stay tuned for my recap of Day 2!

Dr. Rachel Runs Disney

Posted on January 18, 2013 by DrRachelRuns

I’m a Disney Marathoner! I bet you’re wondering how that happened. Never fear, a reasonably complete recap follows. Honestly, the whole thing was so amazing, so much fun, that I can’t remember half of the details I wanted to. I’ll do my best.

When we last left off, I had just finished the Disney Marathon Expo and was well on my way to the final two stages of Dr. Rachel’s Seven Stages of Race Preparation. To refresh your memory, they were:

6. Existential Questioning (at the start of the race – “Why did I think this was a good idea? This is very bad idea.”, “Running is really weird. Why do I do it?”) and 7. Euphoria (post-race – “I LOVE running!”, “That was amazing!”, “I can’t wait to race again. Next time…”, “Woooo hoooo!!”)

At the ridiculously early hour of 2:30am, mom and I awoke in our lovely hotel room at Pop Century (a great, reasonably priced resort, by the way). We had a 3:15am bus to catch, so it was time to rise and shine! I had meticulously laid out my supplies, so I got dressed and ready with relative ease. I taped up my pesky fibula with KT Tape and was as ready as I would ever be.

I double checked everything and boarded the bus to Epcot to meet up with my marathon running friends (check out their blog!) and head to the start line. The wait for the bus was minimal and the ride was easy. On the bus, I questioning everything – my training, my decision to run, the stability of my only recently healed fibula. Stage 6 was in full effect. As the bus got closer to Epcot, I felt better and better. This was a great idea! I was going to have So. Much. Fun! Eeeeee! I still get excited just thinking about it. The pre-start area was organized chaos. Thousands of runners and families milled about, taking pictures, dropping off bags, and moving toward the runners-only start chute. Disney had done a wonderful job organizing everything, so finding our way around was easy.

In the runners-only area we walked and walked. They weren’t kidding about allowing 20 minutes to walk to the start – it was a long way. We finally arrived and had a few moments to rest in our corral before the 5:30am start.

At the start, there was plenty of entertainment. There were character visits, interviews, and even fireworks! Within a few minutes, we were off. We quickly settled into a nice, smooth pace and trotted along through the first few miles. There were screaming spectators, fans, bands, and all manner of supporters along the way. We passed Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Out front, spectators cheered. I couldn’t believe how many people were out to watch the race – even at 6am! Before I knew it, we had completed 4.5 miles and were entering Disney World. Knowing my mom was waiting near Cinderella’s Castle, I started looking for her. Imagine my surprise when I found her among the thousands of screaming and cheering spectators! We snapped a (really) quick picture and were on our way.

The miles were flying by. I was having a wonderful race. The course was absolutely gorgeous and the characters, fans, and cheering spectators were amazing. We rounded the Castle (amazing at first light!) and came upon Cinderella and Charming. I had to take a picture!

She was gracious, as usual, and the stop was perfectly timed. We all used the (clean!) porta-potties and got some water at a nearby water stop. Seven miles were done in no time at all. We were having a great time! At this point, my memory starts to get a little blurry. I usually have race amnesia and this race was no different. I know it was fun. I saw characters. I enjoyed the sights. Miles passed.

We entered the Speedway around mile 9. I liked the old one better. The classic and custom cars were super fun to see. We exited the Speedway just as the sun was gaining strength and moved into one of the not-so-great parts of the course. We wound along the backstage parts of the parks and past the Disney waste water treatment plant. Ew. It did not smell nice and there were very few spectators or characters. It was actually very much like a normal race. My standards were Disney-high, so it wasn’t as fun. It was started to get hot, and my leg was starting to give me trouble. I slowed a bit, but managed to stay just behind my friends (who deserve so much love for waiting for me and encouraging me! love you!). Finally, we came upon the backstage part of Animal Kingdom. There were animals and handlers for photo opportunities (so cute!). The camber of the strange pavement at Animal Kingdom did me in. My poor fibula was unhappy and I slowed again. At mile 13 I bid my friends goodbye and set off on my own. I had already calculated that if I could run 12 miles, I could walk the rest and finish under the time limit. So, I slowed way down and enjoyed the view. At this point, my priority changed. I was going to go slow, have fun, and keep the distress on my body at a minimum so I could return to training quickly. I was disappointed, and wondered what it might have been like had I not been injured a month before the marathon and could have trained fully, but I was having fun. And having fun is all that matters sometimes.

Around mile 15, I entered the toughest part of the race. Miles 15-21 were on the way to, in, and on the way out of ESPN’s Wide World of Sports. The approach is on Osceola Parkway, a divided, four lane road. The trees are way back from the road. It was hot (about 80 degrees and climbing), there wasn’t much to look at, and there was no shade. I was hot, in pain, and not a happy runner. Somewhere in there, 17 maybe, volunteers handed out sponges and I think it was the single greatest gift I had ever gotten. I loved my sponge. It was amazing. Stupidly, I threw my sponge away. Next time I will keep my glorious gift. We wound through the Wide World of Sports (which, if I never see again, I wouldn’t mind so much) and finally exited. I couldn’t have been happier. Miles 16-19 were a real low point for me. I walked more than I had wanted, cursed some, and generally wasn’t feeling the Disney magic. There was no doubt in my mind that I would finish, but I was hoping to recapture the magic. That happened at mile 20.

Seeing Mile 20, and the huge show at the mile marker, was amazing. It was just the boost I needed. The approach to mile 20 had wonderful characters and the marker had a platform with Disney favorites. I waited in the picture line, using the break as an opportunity to stretch and regroup. I would finish. I would do this. I pressed on with renewed vigor. I felt pretty good. Sure, it was hot (86 degrees by this time according to mom, who was waiting at the finish), sunny, and I was exhausted, but I was running the Disney Marathon! An honest to goodness dream was coming true. I pressed onward. I met some nice people, passed some characters, and before I knew it, I saw the sign for the turn to Epcot!

Having made the turn many times in my life, I knew just how far I had to go. And it wasn’t far! The course snuck us in the back way, through Hollywood Studios. I loved running past the Tower of Terror and through the costume shop. There were trees, and shade, and interesting things to see. Running through the fake New York City street was really fun. Disney cast members did a wonderful job of managing marathon and park traffic and the folks visiting the park cheered loudly. In what felt like no time, we exited Hollywood Studios and entered Epcot! Running around the Lagoon was both the longest and the shortest mile and a half of my running life. I wanted to capture every moment. Epcot visitors were cheering, characters were standing by for pictures, and everyone was upbeat. We were finishing the marathon!

After a short trek around the Lagoon, we passed into a backstage area and emerged moments later on the finish line approach. Spectators were several deep and they were all cheering. I could see the finish line! I passed my mom, and, within moments crossed the line.

It was amazing! Everyone at runDisney was so helpful, so kind, and so supportive. Running the Disney Marathon was easily one of the best things I’ve done as a runner. It really is a race full of wonderful memories.

And, just in case you were wondering, I’m definitely in Stage 7. I can’t wait to do it again next year. Maybe this time I’ll be Goofy.

Race Recap: Monson Memorial Classic

Posted on November 11, 2012 by DrRachelRuns

On November 11, 2012, several members of my running club and I ran in the Monson Memorial Classic. The Monson Memorial Classic features three events – a half marathon, a 5k run, and a 2 mile walk. Monson Mass. was devastated by a huge tornado a few years ago and since then it’s become a popular running spot thanks to several benefit races. The Memorial Classic benefits a number of cancer awareness causes.

This wasn’t my first time running Monson, but several teammates were there for the first time. It was great fun to run the races as a team. Six members of our crew ran the half marathon and five members of our crew (plus one junior member) ran the 5k. I ran the half marathon last year, and decided this was the year to try the 5k. This review will focus on the 5k, but I’ve included some tidbits about the half marathon since I ran that last year and had some spies who could report on this year’s event.

The race begins and ends near the town hall, a lovely historic building. Race day was warm, about 60 degrees, and partly cloudy. The race got off to a rocky start. Packet pick up began just an hour before the race, and race day registration was available. A combination of a late start, plus no discernible organization to the check in/packet pick up area led to really long, disorganized lines.

After waiting about 10 minutes in line, someone came out and began trying to convince 5k runners to go inside. We went inside and found more people. I would say that there were lines, but it was really more a gathering of people standing in an area. No one seemed to know what was going on. We persevered and got packets. There was nice race swag. Everyone got a long sleeve technical t-shirt and a water bottle. Half marathoners got a pint glass with the race logo. In a somewhat odd move, the race organizers passed out finishers’ medals for the half marathon at race check in. I thought it was very strange (and anti-climactic) to get the finishers’ medal at the same time as the race number. It wouldn’t have taken much extra work to pass the medals out at the finish line and I’m sorry that the race organizers didn’t do this. The large crowds at check in were encouraging. I like seeing lots of runners come out for charity races, particularly challenging ones. I really had the sense that the organizers were surprised by the number of registrants.

Due to the chaos of packet pick up, the race started about 20 minutes late. At start time, a bagpiping duo led runners to the half marathon start in the middle of route 32. Traffic was temporarily suspended. The half marathon got started and the remaining runners voyaged to the nearby start of the 5k run and 2 mile walk. Several minutes later, traffic was held and the 5k began.

The 5k course starts on Route 32, the main roadway in the area, and proceeds about 1 mile up Route 32. Then, the race turned right on Route 32, and took another right onto a back road. It was a relief to be on the back road. Traffic was not stopped, there were no cones, and there were no race marshals or volunteers, so traffic was zipping by the runners. Given that Route 32 is a main road, there were a lot of cars. The back roads were lovely, slightly hilly, and scenic. One of the roads was in the path of the tornado that devastated the town a couple years ago, and it was nice to see the rebuilding in progress.

At mile 2, there was what I assume was meant to be a water stop. It was a folding table with several cups of water on it. It was totally unattended and on the opposite side of the road from the race. I wish the race organizers had secured a volunteer to hand out the water, or at least put the table on the right side of the road so runners actually passed it. By the time I realize that it was actually a water stop, I was past it. But, for a 5k, water isn’t essential for me so I didn’t mind.

Unfortunately, the 5k race course is not well marked, nor are there volunteers on course. There are no marshals, and very few signs. The signs that do exist are small pink papers attached to the odd pole. I counted just 4 signs. The course was overall very poorly identified and marked. Two members of my team got lost on the course, adding on a quarter of a mile. There were no marshals to direct them and they were lucky to have found their way back to the course. The making of the course could really be improved and marshals to help ensure the safety of runners and help with directions would have been helpful.

At the finish, there was professional timing and a small crowd. Runners were treated to a wonderful buffet post-race.

The food is really a highlight of this race. The Women’s Auxillary creates an amazing spread of all home cooked food. There were several gluten free and vegetarian options, and, what can only be described as the best minestrone soup ever. Ever. I got the recipe from the nice woman who makes it (that’s her in the blue shirt on the right). It’s that good. They also have a huge selection of drinks, both hot and cold, bagels and donuts, ice cream, apples, and the best non-pasteurized apple cider ever. Seriously. The food is amazing. It’s worth running just to get the cider. Despite the number of runners exceeding what was anticipated, there was plenty of food and portions were large. Complimentary post-race sports massage was available and a blue grass/folk band entertained everyone in the town hall.

Overall, Monson is a decent little race. The RD could make some small, simple improvements that would dramatically improve the overall quality of the race. But, the race experience is saved by the great food, nice amenities, and good race environment.

A few notes on the half marathon – my spies reported that the course was the same as last year, VERY hilly, scenic, and shaded. The first 8 miles are uphill and the race has a somewhat unpleasant finish. The last 3.5 miles are run on Route 32 and there is no effort to control traffic. The shoulder is very, very slim and non-existant in some areas. Runners who are up to the challenge of the hills should use caution in the final miles as cars are definitely present. Despite this, I like the half marathon course. It goes through some lovely countryside. And, what runner doesn’t like a challenge? My spies also reported that there were water stops every mile and a half or so (though some were unattended) and had nice, full cups of water. Chip timing was a huge improvement to the half marathon this year, and made times reliable. Overall, everyone who ran the half marathon reported that they had a good experience. And everyone enjoyed the post-race massage.

Race Recap: Danze Half Marathon

Posted on November 6, 2012 by DrRachelRuns

On November 4, 2012, I ran the Danze Half Marathon, a great little race put on by Ocean State Multisport. I’ve featured Ocean State Multisport events on the blog before, as part of my upcoming events series, but never participated in one. That changed when, in the midst of Hurricane Sandy, I won a Facebook contest and got a free entry into the Danze Half Marathon. Here’s how it happened. I had lost power due to the hurricane and was updating my Facebook status accordingly. Because, really, did anything happen if it wasn’t recorded on social media. As I was refreshing my feed, Gary popped up with a little Ocean State Multisport contest. I love contests, though I rarely win, so I entered. And, I won! Yay. I was super sick, but I would not be deterred. I was going to run in the Danze Half Marathon.

Half marathon day dawned clear, cool, and sunny. It was great racing weather, albeit a little cool. At race time it was about 34 degrees and sunny. It warmed up to just about 40 during the course of the race. Having never run an Ocean State Multisport event before, I had no idea what to expect. Race check in and packet pick up was at the YMCA in Seekonk, MA, just over the border from Providence.

The race was a very low key affair. There were only about 50 people registered and most of them were found milling around in the (heated!) gym at the Y, waiting for the race to start. There was plenty of room to warm up, stretch, and lounge in the heated gym, and a full locker room available for use. Gary, the director of Ocean State Multisport gathered everyone and ushered us out to the start line, a little spray painted mark on the sidewalk next to the YMCA. He welcomed everyone to the race, explained the course, and sent us on our way.

The course was a lovely, rural and suburban course. It began running through what I imagine is downtown Seekonk, if there is such a thing. There were a number of homes and subdivisions. Then, the race turned into a wooded, rural, residential area and the course wound past a lovely subdivision with huge, stately homes. Next, the race course headed out into the country. We ran along rural roads, past cow pastures, fields, and great New England scenery. The roads were not closed to traffic, but drivers were kind, waving and honking. Drivers seemed to be driving safely and obeying the speed limit. There were uniformed police officers with cruisers at ever turn and volunteers with flags on each corner. The course was extremely well marked. Gary had spray painted markings on the road and large black and white signs on telephone poles. The uniformed officers marked every major intersection and turn. It would have been very difficult to get lost. I was very impressed with the course and the clarity of the course markings. I was also pleased to see so many police officers and felt comforted by the police presence. I have run many much larger races and not had such a strong police presence. It was wonderful.

The course was relatively flat, with just a few small hills. It was what I generally refer to as “New England flat” (though the elevation chart doesn’t look like it – there wasn’t much elevation change so the little changes look large) with a nice downhill finish.

Water stations were well marked, and just where Gary said they would be. Each water stop was staffed with a few friendly volunteers.

At the finish line, Gary himself greeted each runner. He was cheering and friendly. There were snacks – oranges, bananas, and an amazing tray of sweets from a local bakery. Finish line amenities also included complimentary massage.

Overall, I loved this race. I liked Gary, and I was impressed with Ocean State Multisport. Though the race had only 50 or so participants, there were perks that I often don’t even see at much larger races. Every finisher got a medal, a t-shirt, wonderful food, and free massage. The traffic was well controlled and the local police had a strong presence. The course was well marked, scenic, and fun to run. It ‘s worth note that the race also seemed to attract a fast field – many of the finish times were below 2 hours. Not me, of course, as I had spent the whole week sick. It wasn’t my finest finish, but it was a finish.

I will definitely make plans to participate in another Ocean State Multisport event.

Race Recap: Cape Cod Marathon Half (Updated)

Posted on October 29, 2012 by DrRachelRuns

On October 27, 2012, my running friend, her half brother, and I ran the Novo Nordisk Cape Cod Marathon Half. No, I didn’t type that wrong. The race is really called the Marathon Half. The Cape Cod Marathon is in its 35th year and is a Falmouth, MA fall tradition. This year was only the second year for the half marathon option, and the race is named after its big brother. Thus, a marathon half. Race weekend events include the half marathon, marathon, marathon relay, and the Clam Chowdah Challenge (the half and full marathons on back to back days). When my running friend suggested the race, I was intrigued. It’s advertised as a mostly flat, scenic course, and the race winds through Falmouth and along Vineyard Sound. I hadn’t been to Cape Cod, so I signed up.

The registration process for this race was a bit strange. I completed my application, mailed it in, and assumed I was all set. A week or so later, I got an email that said that the race had filled and I was on the waiting list:

We received your half marathon registration form on 9/4/2012; however, as you may or may not know, the race filled on Saturday, August 11. At this point, you have been placed on a waiting list, on which you are # 42. … Last year we had more than 100 runners withdraw and we have reserved some spaces for sponsors which may become available in September.

I found this very strange. The website still listed spots open in the half marathon, but, sadly, I was wait listed. And, more than 100 people withdrew and were replaced – even more strange. My friend and I decided to wait it out. Sure enough, a few weeks later I got the email that I was selected for the race. Yay!

The night before the race, our little group headed to Cape Cod. We decided the best course of action was to pick up our packets the night before.

We arrived at the packet pick up location, “race headquarters”, to a group of runners milling around outside. Doors were opened promptly at 5pm and we all filed inside the school. Packet pick up was very well organized and completely efficient. We received instructions to come back the next morning for the race – there would be parking at the school.

On race morning, the weather was ideal. It was about 50 degrees, partly sunny, and breezy. Perfect running weather! We suited up and headed to the school to park. Parking was well organized and efficient. A number of volunteers were on hand to guide runners and organize the parking. The school was open and available for warm ups, bathrooms, and pre-race waiting. I was delighted to have a real bathroom to use before the race. The small luxuries of a real stall and soap and running water cannot be underestimated.

From the school, we headed across the playing fields and through an alley. We emerged on Main Street, directly across from the Town Hall Square and lined up. The start was organized chaos. It was a free for all start, no fancy corrals or pace groups here, but everyone seemed to have a good sense of where to line up and what to do.

The course was amazing! It is probably one of the more beautiful and scenic courses I’ve run. I didn’t take pictures along the route (I hadn’t been feeling well and didn’t want to add another complication), but you can see some amazing views from the race organizers here.

The first miles wind through neighborhoods and head out to the coast. Miles 2-3.5 or so are run along Vineyard Sound, on surface streets and past mansions, beach homes, historic camps, and marinas. At approximately mile 4, the course turns and moves onto the Shining Sea Bikeway. The paved bikeway is literally ocean front. There’s the bikeway, some beach scrub trees and bushes, and the sound. The views were amazing and the ocean area was humid and salty. The course continues on the bikeway until approximately mile 6 when it rejoins surface streets and begins the climb up to Nobska Lighthouse. The course is flat in the early miles, but at about 6.5 miles, it begins to climb and continues to feature rolling hills for the remainder of the course. The course turns near Falmouth Harbor (gorgeous views!) and then winds back along Surf Drive and towards town. The “in town” parts of the course are pure New England – a combination of Cape Cod style homes, little beach camps, and mansions, all with a seaside feel. Many miles of the course are directly seaside and the views are truly picturesque.

It is a well-designed course and was well marked on race day. Though the roads were open to traffic, there were helpful volunteers on each corner and the course markings were very clear. Mileage was posted and was accurate.

Despite my appreciation for the beauty and simplicity of the course, I was dissatisfied by one aspect of the race course. The water/fuel stations were not optimally placed and did not seem to be “approximately every 2.5 miles”, as advertised. The first water stop was about 2.5-3 miles in, then the second was at mile 4. There were no water stops on the bike trail. There was a water stop at about mile 7, then one at 9 and another at 10. It was warmer than I expected and I probably wasn’t properly hydrated, so more predictable water stops would have helped me. I didn’t drink enough at the stops at miles 3 and 4 to last through the bike course drought. In the future, I would plan to bring my own water.

The finish line was on Main Street, near the start line. The chute was well organized and festive. Announcers made sure runners were acknowledged and volunteers handed out the super fun medals.

At the finish line area, there were apples and cups for water. The full lunch spread – vegetable soup, rolls, salad, Ocean Spray Cranberry juice, and, inexplicably, clam chowder, was available at the school. There was plenty of food and it tasted delicious. My soup was super hot and handed to me by a smiling volunteer. I still can’t fathom someone eating clam chowder after running a race in warm weather, but some people at it and rumor had it that it was tasty.

Overall, I loved the Cape Cod Marathon Half. It was well organized, well-run, and had an absolutely beautiful course. I would definitely do it again – and recommend it to others.

Rachel and Running friend, post-race

Results can be found here.

Details for Rachel’s outfit, above: Lululemon Run: Swiftly top (it’s an older one, patterned with flowers, in flash), Lululemon capris, really old, I’m not even certain the name, but fit like the new Run: Track Time capris.

Update:

Someone (rightly) pointed out that I didn’t include the elevation chart as I usually do. Sorry about that. Here it is:

And, pictures from the race can be found here and are searchable by bib number.

Lake Winnipesaukee Relay – Legs 5-8

Posted on September 15, 2012 by DrRachelRuns

In this continuation of the Mansfield Trail Runners’ recap of the Fred Brown Lake Winniepsaukee Relay, my teammates will cover legs 5-8.

Leg 5 – Sarah

Wow! The Winni relay exceeding all of my expectations- I had a blast getting a chance to bond with fellow Mansfield runners and was impressed with the scenery of New Hampshire. Oh, and the run kicked my tail

Many thanks to Warren for sharing this unique race with us and to Rachel for organizing so many logistics.

I ran leg #5–10.6 miles from a ski area to Morgan Farm. I waited with team members at the ski area for Alicia to arrive. Around 1:30, I lined up very seriously in the exchange zone and was stoked to see Alicia finishing strong. I grabbed the baton and took off, but then my visor flew off!! So I actually had to turn around and grab my visor. Geez, I’m a klutz! That inspired me to take off a bit quickly. After a few minutes, I passed a dude wearing a purple singlet. It was hot and the sun was glaring down on me. The course was on the side of a somewhat busy road. I was sweating a lot and had to deal with the extremely slick baton. I felt like I was running pretty strong and powered up a couple short hills. My first two miles were under 9 minute pace.

It was getting hotter, and I drank water at every opportunity. At a couple spots, folks were stopped on the side of the road, handing out water, and their cheering really helped out. I could see a couple runners ahead of me, and I was glad that I wasn’t lost

By mile 4, I could tell that I was expending a lot of energy. The course was scenic- going by farms with traditional New England stone walls.

At mile 5, I took a gel. I was a mess during this race! I was running in a sports bra and shorts and was still boiling. I guess that’s what happens when you race in the middle of the afternoon! I started dumping water on my head to cool myself down. I did NOT want to overheat. I pretended that I was doing an Ironman- where they end up running a marathon in hot, brutal conditions. There were some extended downhills, and I knew they’d shred my quads but I also wanted to make up some time. I tried to let myself float down those hills.

At mile 7, I had to bribe myself to get to mile 8. I checked my garmin a ton, hoping that the miles would click along. Fortunately, there were a few shaded sections of the course and some clouds rolled in. I passed a couple people and crossed my fingers that I could stay ahead of them. I sang a few Lady Gaga songs in my head. I reminded myself that my comrades from Connecticut were waiting for me and that really, really motivated me to keep running. It made a huuuuge difference to be running as part of a team.

By mile 9, I knew that I’d make it to the finish. I wanted to finish strong. My leg ended with a downhill, and I forced my jello legs to move to the exchange zone. I was elated to hand off to Stacey. I couldn’t believe that I survived this race. Apparently, Lake Winnipesaukee means the”smile of the Great Spirit.” I think someone was smiling that we had the moxy, the fierceness, and the sense of humor to run all the way around this fine lake.

Leg 6 – Stacey

My leg was #6 which was 6.4 miles that was relatively flat (some minor inclines). It was on a course that started out on a country like road (at the farm) but ended in a stretch of highway that had lots of traffic and not a whole lot to look at. I was very fortunate to run at a time when the sky was getting cloudy as it would have been a lot harder if the sun was beating down on me- it was just plain humid!! (I feel sorry for the others before me that had to run in the hot sun). It started to sprinkle but did not rain during my leg. I also got a chance to ride around the entire course and I thought that my leg was a great match for me. (running any distance in heat is challenging). It is really a perfect match for someone who only runs short to moderate distances at a time and who does not like downhills. I did find the baton hard to hold as it felt slimy, so I ended up lacing it between my fingers.

Leg 7 – Jack

Well….actually it was about my leg at least partly. An occasional chronic Achilles issue did bother me, but did not stop me. What a fun weekend. I wanted to get this written down before I forgot the significant stuff. My leg was #7 and 8.5 miles which I rounded up to 9 in my log book

First a couple observations about the relay from my perspective…. I’ve run for 30 years but never an event like this. A race that I did not know really when I would be running (sometime between 1 and 4PM) or the conditions….or even the terrain. I did have the benefit of driving around and seeing my teammates legs and figured it would be something like theirs. Maybe a two mile hill up Gunstock like Laura….or maybe a 90 degree slog like Rachel., even a rolling changeable 11 miles like Sarah. We had gotten in late and missed Rachels elaborate spread sheet of expected times, conditions and contingencies. But I found it odd that although we were at Winnepesaukee……we barely ever had sight of the lake. A glimpse here and there, but mostly the race takes place on busy two lane highways with fairly wide shoulders and busy traffic….my leg was no different…except for the weather.

So….my lovely wife ran leg 6 and handed me the baton at a school for my own little race at about 4:00PM. It was sort of over already in the sense that we had no hope of making the 5:00 cutoff for the last leg and I knew Warren would be running before I could hand him the baton (race rules). At this point the baton has been with 6 other people and was fairly slimy and not fun to hold…..I decided it was most comfortable to shove it down the back of my shorts where my butt crack would hold it secure……believe me it was better than the other places it had been earlier in the day. We may have to invest in the baton holster next time. The first few miles were an uncomfortable and increasingly painful slog along another two lane highway. I had no idea where we were competitively since other teams had finished hours before….and a few people passed me right away….but I settled into an even…if slow pace to try to accommodate my leg pain. But around mile 4 I got lucky. A light rain quickly turned into a torrential downpour. It changed everything for me. Its odd…..I just love running in the rain…and this was more than that. Eventually it was a driving downpour and the road runoff was just little rivers that were fun to splash through and lubricated my gait, my body and my attitude. Ahhhh….after the whole day stuck in the car, cheering and waiting, this was my turn. Although the race itself was long over, I did manage to pass Lori from Silk City Striders and splash my way to the transition. Of course there was no one there by then….but the timer guy got out of his truck with his umbrella and told me I was done.

So…lessons learned. After many years of running, its nice to find so many things I can still work on and try to improve. How to eat and hydrate before an anticipated and indefinite start time. How to be competitive with a coed, mixed open/masters/senior team. And how to have fun and enjoy whatever the race day and the weather can deliver.

Leg 8 – Warren

My leg started at 5 when all the last leg runners teams that had not reached that point had to leave together. It had the feeling of a race within a race. It started on a steep downhill so I positioned myself near the front to take advantage of my downhill “prowless” At the last minute I shucked my beloved MTR shirt because of the impending rain and warm temperature (about 80 degrees). I got off to a good start and actually led the group down the first hill.I will summarize the rest of the leg under “ugly”, “bad” and “good” categories. THE UGLY: This had to be me plodding up the three long steep hills. The first was one and one half miles long with nearly 350′ of vertical rise. The other two were “only” 1/2 miles long but just as steep as hill #1. THE BAD There was a torrential downpour for most of the leg. It was like running in a river. And there was a constant stream of cars going by the whole leg. THE GOOD For each uphill there was an equal and opposite downhill where I was able to pass the runners who passed me on the uphills. I was actually able to have a finishing kick on the last up hill to the finish. In spite of the uphill trudging I was able to average 9.5 min/mile average! Finally the enthusiastic greeting I got from Laura, Rachel and Marc at the finish.

All in all I felt the weekend was a great success!! It was a pleasure to bring back some old running memories and to share the Winnipesaukee Experience with my MTR buddies. I agree we need to go on more road trips.

Lake Winnipesaukee Relay – Legs 1-4

Posted on September 14, 2012 by DrRachelRuns

This month, my team from the Mansfield Trail Runners and I ran the Fred Brown Lake Winnipesaukee Relay. It was a wonderful race and we had a great time. In our prep for the race, we noticed that there wasn’t much information online about the legs and the race itself. As a public service to the running community, I asked each of our runners to write a short recap of their experience of their legs. In this first part, we’ll cover Legs 1-3 (a recap of Leg 4 is on the way). You’ll see a theme – my team didn’t do much research and had a great time. Sounds like runners to me.

Leg 1 – Laura

I did not do any research prior to the relay and only knew that I was running the first leg and that it was 10.7 miles. The leg started with a long downhill which I took pretty fast because I’m better at downhills than uphills and I figured this was a good opportunity to put some time in the bank. My quads did not thank me later . Next, as best I can recall, came rolling hills. The temperature was not very hot but it was muggy and I rapidly began to overheat. I determined that I must lose the shirt and stopped at the first aide station, unpinned my number, moved it to my shorts and took off the shirt. Now I was cooler, but carrying the shirt in addition to the baton. Within a mile I found some kind strangers who would be at the finish and were willing to take the shirt off my hands. Thank you kind strangers! There was more help from kind strangers in the hydration department over the course of the leg. The two water stops available were not enough and I failed to carry water with me so I was grateful. If I do this leg again I will bring a hand bottle. Towards the middle of the leg I fell in with a small pack and we worked together for several miles. This pack provided me with valuable intel on how far we had gone, how far we had to go and what I was in for. I learned that the last 3 miles was mostly uphill! I really had not planned or conserved for this hill, but managed to schlog up it anyway, as one always inevitably does in these situations. Things got very uncomfortable towards the end of the leg, kind of like the way the last few miles of a marathon feels, probably because I have not been running much and am not in good running shape. Boy was I happy to see my team at the transition area when it finally appeared! Well that’s my report. My advice: Prepare for lots of downhill, lots of uphill, bring extra water and take off your shirt while you still can!

Leg 2 – Marc

I didn’t do any homework on the legs and simply asked for the longest, as I enjoy long distance runs. Consequently, I was assigned leg two–and didn’t really know much about it other than it was purported to be mostly downhill.

It started with a long, gradual climb. Just about the time I had my fill of climbing, the downhill began–and the leg lived up to its reputation: significant downhill. In fact, this leg is not for a person with knee issues or someone who doesn’t like to run downhill. I found myself widening my stride and picking up a great deal of speed. This probably contributed to me running faster than I should have in the first half of my leg. I became concerned about positive splits once the course transitioned into rolling hills.

This leg does go onto secondary roads and along the water for a distance, which is quaint and pleasurable to view; however, if you’re anything like me, you don’t really do much sight-seeing while racing.

By the time I reached the second water station, there was a little more than 4 miles remaining and I was definitely feeling the effects of the first third of the course. The last mile or so flattens out and–if you have any reserves–you can step it up and come in strong for a finish. Overall, the leg was enjoyable and probably one that you want to assign to the fastest runner in your group.

Leg 3 – Rachel (Me!)

One of my teammates had quite possibly the best description of leg three – it was a survival exercise. When my leg started, it was just starting to get sunny. It was about 85 degrees and humid. My leg began with Bay Hill Road, billed at the steepest hill on a “hilly course”. They weren’t kidding. There’s a big warning sign at the bottom of Bay Hill notifying unsuspecting motorists (and runners) that the hill has a 20% grade. It lasts for just over a half mile. At 20% grade. Everyone had been warning me about Bay Hill and I heard several reports that it “evened out” after Bay Hill. So, motivated by the idea that if I could get over this one big hill quickly that I could have a nice, flat run, I ran up Bay Hill. And turned the corner to find a second, huge hill. This one a mere 12% grade over a half mile. I was just over a mile in and had climbed over 500 feet. The sun was shining, it was about 90 degrees and humid, and I was so, so hot. I had water with me, but it wasn’t enough. I refilled my bottle at the first water stop.

I came across a friend of a friend at mile 3. I didn’t know him. I shoved a pile of sweaty clothes at him, took off my shirt, shoved my number in my shorts, and went on my way. I was sure that the stories of the crazy, shirtless lady would be circulating the exchange by the time I made it. By the fourth hill I couldn’t take it anymore. I had to walk. I was hot, miserable, and exhausted and I had 4 miles to go. The hills kept coming. There really was no break and, given that I was running on Route 28, there was also no shade. There wasn’t so much as a tall weed to give me any relief from the sun. Heat ripples were coming off the pavement. I walked up a few hills because I was so hot that I was dizzy. A few people passed me and I saw them fade into the distance. My team appeared like a mirage around mile 4. Some nice strangers gave me water at some point. It was cold and I drank it immediately. Time passed slowly. By mile 6 I was demoralized. I had been walking some, knew I was going to go over my projected time, and there was no end in sight. I forged on, knowing my team was counting on me. Later, our hosts would tell me they don’t even like to drive on Route 28.

At mile 7.5 the course turns and heads into the city. I was so grateful to be off route 28. Exhausted, I continued to the exchange at a school. When I finished, the only thing I could say to my teammate was “take off your shirt while you still can”. Marc asked me if I was ok. I was pretty sure I wasn’t. I was dangerously hot, despite walking and coming in nearly 10 minutes over my projected time (a minute per mile slower than I had hoped). The moral of the story – give Leg 3 to your teammate who can best tolerate heat and hills, or who is slightly sadistic. It wasn’t the leg for me, a terrible hot weather runner and not really a lover of so many hills. It was punishing and I won’t be rushing to repeat it. Next year I’ll try a different leg and our sadistic friend, Jack, will take mine. I won’t be sad to say goodbye to Leg 3.

Tag Archives: recaps