tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83887061345653519962024-02-19T06:18:51.498-05:00VS. the RoadRileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-7418675472606109432014-07-08T22:02:00.001-04:002014-07-08T22:02:51.895-04:00Two Year Anniversary of Racing<div> I ran my first race on July 3, 2012. It seems like a lifetime ago. Since then I have ran many races but every year I make certain to run one race. That race is the Finish at the 50 at Gillette Stadium. I ran it on July 3, 2013 and again this year on July 2014. It is hard to measure any progress in this race because they have changed the course each year that I have participated. This race can be a true test because it starts at 6:30 PM and the heat and humidity is always a challenge. </div><div><br></div><div>This race means a lot to me. I was running on my own before hand but running with people and in a race changed everything. While I was not competing necessarily against the other runners it allowed me to compete more against myself and embrace others seeing me run. It can be hard to start racing because it is intimidating when you see the elite athletes. What kept me going was knowing that I was getting better with every run. Whether it was being able to run a longer without having to take a walking break(which are completely okay) or running faster than I had previously, I saw improvement. Alstom I have seen many inspirational people running races. Survivors of cancer and other diseases, Team Hoyt and those who have overcome other obstacles, but still run are true inspirations. I can honestly say that buying my first pair of running shoes is one of the best things to happen to me. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div></div></div>Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-53764545049715585662014-04-11T16:21:00.000-04:002014-04-11T16:21:53.179-04:00I'm Baaaaaaaack!<b>*makes triumphant return to VStR*</b><br />
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Oh, hey everyone. Long time no post! Kudos to Louie for holding it down for us since I went M.I.A. in October. Grad school has sort of taken over my life these last 6 months and blogging (and even running -_-) has been the first few things to be put on the back burner. If you're wondering what I've been up to, check out my personal blog, <a href="http://fiveleveninety.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">FivEleveNinety</a>! But here's a little update on my running life:<br />
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<li>I <i>did</i> survive Hartford and had an amazing time running my first marathon! There were a few disappointing aspects of the event itself (no shirts, medals, and wrong bibs), but the actual race was great. Here's the vlog from the day of the race and my immediate post-race review:</li>
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<li style="text-align: left;">I ran another half in December with little to no training. I finished, but GOD it was miserable, haha! Do not recommend it at all!</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Took a few month break from racing, but ran a 5K with Louie on his birthday.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">I volunteered at the Fool's Dual half, which Louie talked about <a href="http://versustheroad.blogspot.com/2014/04/volunteering-at-race.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</li>
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The past few months I've been less focused on running and a little bit more focused on getting any kind of exercise in that I can when I can find the time, as well as stretching <i>much</i> more. My schedule is so jam-packed with items for work and school that pulling 12 hour work days is the norm for me, and sleep is the main priority. I'm hoping with the school year coming to the end toward the tail end of May I'll be able to focus more on getting back on my running game. (I <i>do</i> have a multi-distance race and a marathon coming up this year, so I gotta get my act together!)</div>
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I'll try to be better about posting more frequently here, as I'm sure I'll be running more frequently, at least in the summer months! See you guys soon. :)</div>
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Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-2999942198268363902014-04-11T10:23:00.003-04:002014-04-11T10:23:24.603-04:00Volunteering at a Race<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On April 6, 2014 Riley and I volunteered, with our friend Nick, for the Yukan Run Fool's Dual in Gloucester, MA. This was a first for both of us, but something we were looking forward too. The funny part about this volunteering assignment was we were sent to three different water stops throughout the course.<br />
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One of the coolest part of volunteering for this race was the people we were able to meet. I know from my experience, I met runners of different levels. One member of my team ran ultra marathons, while another was waiting to have knee cap replacement surgery so she could continue running. It was awesome to hear the experience of other runners. Turns out a few of us had run the same races and it was great to hear how others thought the race went.<br />
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Now on to what volunteering actually entailed. My water station was the water stop for both mile 5 and mile 8 of the half marathon. We had Gatorade, Water and some of the GU energy packs to hand to runners. It was interesting to be on the other end of a water stop. It can get pretty hectic and you want to make sure the runners are getting what they want at the stop. Handing a runner a cup that they think is water only to find out it is gatorade after they dump it over there head would be awful. To avoid this we called out what we were holding and runners grabbed their drink of choice. The GU energy supplements went pretty fast as well.<br />
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If helping out you fellow runner or fellow human being by volunteering is not enough, when you volunteer at YUKAN Run events you are given free entry into one of thier events. You can pass this on to someone so they can run the event you are volunteering at or save it for a later event. Also, you received a pretty cool light-up jester hat as a volunteer as well. So there are rewards on top of the rewarding experience of volunteering.<br />
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This experience was awesome. I cannot wait for my next experience volunteering and luckily I do not have to wait that long. I will be volunteering in the Power Bar, Finish Area of the Boston Marathon. I expect this to be a lot crazier than this experience, but it will be absolutely amazing.<br />
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Louie<br />
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Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-19275166648339108292014-04-08T07:46:00.001-04:002014-04-08T07:46:39.299-04:00An UpdateHi All, <div><br></div><div>I know the posts here on VS. the Road have been very random with no rhyme or reason lately. We'll run a few races without a race review and then post a race review or we just have not been posting anything at all. Life has gotten pretty hectic at the moment between grad school, work and trying to breath, finding time to write has become difficult. </div><div><br></div><div>This is not a goodbye post however. With Spring comes race season and with race season comes a new commitment to VS. the Road. Be on the look out for some new posts about volunteering at races, race reviews and just general tips. </div><div><br></div><div>The first of these that I hope to post is in my first experience volunteering at the Yukan Run Fool's Dual in Gloucester, MA. It should be up by the end of the week. </div><div><br></div><div>Louie</div>Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-75018126071343282092014-03-10T09:24:00.001-04:002014-03-10T09:26:11.545-04:00Hyannis Half Marathon 2014Last year Riley and I ran The Hyannis Half Marathon and it was the first half marathon either of us had run. This year I decided I wanted to try and tackle it again. The race was on February 23.<br />
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The registration, number pick up and expo went just as well this year as I last year. I picked up my number and did some shopping at the expo on Saturday and showed up to run the race on Sunday. Even the weather was cooperative this year. Last year it felt like we were running in a monsoon. </div>
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Now to the race itself, it was a beautiful day to run on Cape Cod. With the nicer weather this year, it's no wonder there was such a great turnout of runners. With the nicer weather it was a lot easier to appreciate the scenery around the course. If you want to run a great half marathon, I highly recommend this one. </div>
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As for my performance on the day, I set a new personal record by finishing in 1:52:05! I'm pretty excited to say the least. </div>
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Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-25216901478053135032014-01-30T22:21:00.001-05:002014-01-30T22:21:16.428-05:00What to do in 2014So, after last years large amount of races, I ma stuck trying to figure out what I am doing this year. So far, I have registered for The Hyannis Half Marathon, BAA 5k, BAA 10k, Warrior Dash, Rugged Maniac, Yuakn Run Triple Threat, BAA Half Marathon and The Zombie Run. I plan to add one or two marathons, March, April, and July Half Marathons as well as the Runner's World Heartbreak Hill Hat Trick, a Spartan Race Trifecta, and a Tough Mudder.<br />
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New for 2014 are my plans to volunteer. I've signed to volunteer for the Yukan Run Fool's Dual and BAA Boston Marathon. I want to see the other side of racing. I have spent a lot of time running races and have yet t volunteer for any. This year that changes. Volunteers make it all possible. Without them there would be no races. They motivate runners to keep going and they provide the necessary support of to set-up and run races.<br />
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Volunteering for the Boston Marathon holds a special place this year for myself and many others. I have the privilege of working in Boston and on April 15th I witnessed much of the aftermath of the bombings. I look forward to being on the course this year and witnessing this great event show the resilience of not just the City of Boston but the entire running community.<br />
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Overall, I plan to make 2014 a great year from a professional, personal and athletic standpoint. It all comes down to being better. Better than last year, better than I believe I can be, and better than people think I am.<br />
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2014 is all about better.Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-24851002881828681312013-12-30T20:15:00.001-05:002013-12-30T20:15:07.585-05:00Louie's Very Delayed Hartford Marathon ReviewIt's been almosttwo and a half months since Riley, Nick and I completed the Hartford Marathon. I considered skipping doing a review for this race. At first I did not want to write a review because part of the experience was bad. I will get into that later. Then I debated skipping this review simply because it has been so long since the event. Now to state the obvious, I have decided to write a review or well more of a recap.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting at th starting line. Photo Credit to Riley.</td></tr>
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The events of the day before the marathon. We headed for the marathon around 6 o'clock and this was the start of this going badly. We ended up hitting rush hour traffic on the way to Hartford and barely made it to check in on time. Upon getting to get in, Riley and Nick recieved marathon relay bibs in place of the official marathon bib and I received a generic Hartford Marathon Foundation bib. There check in was strange in that they did not have numbers assigned to pre-registered runners and instead you were given whatever number they reached for during check-in. </div>
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After checking in, it turns out that they had run out of the official t-shirts. We were asked to write down our name, which race, address, and shirt size as they would be mailing them to us. As of this post , we have not received our race shirts. We were informed that the order was placed the end of November and we would have them in four to six weeks. </div>
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So next up is the race itself. For the race itself, I have nothing but good things to say about the course and the volunteers. The course itself had a lot of great scenery and whether it was running on water or through downtown Hartford, it was beautiful. The first six or so miles were run with those running the half marathon and then from there we split off onto our own course. The marathon course was lined with both spectators and volunteers water stops were frequent enough. They averaged about every other mile or so. </div>
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Physically, the first half of the marathon went pretty well. Having ran a few half marathons this year I was prepared for that. I came into the marathon with a sore ankle and after the halfway mark it started to act up, but I just kept running. Eventually, it turned into a run then walk then run routine, but even so I managed to finish the marathon. That was all that counted. </div>
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Crossing the finish line was amazing. We were greeted with water bottles and what we call "space blankets". What we were not greeted with however were the hard earned finisher's medals. They had run out of them as well. Once again we were asked to put our name, event and address on a sheet of paper as it was going to be mailed to us. We have all received them in the mail. It is easily the coolest finisher's medal in my collection. </div>
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Note: That is not the official shirt. It was one I purchased at the race day expo.<br />
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<b><u>A few fun and random notes from the race:</u></b></div>
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1. Riley and I started singing Livin' on a Prayer at mile 13. "Ohhhhh, We're halfway there."</div>
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2. The highest elevation we had to climb was at mile 25. </div>
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3. It was inspirational to see many of the runners who also achieved there goal of finishing a marathon. It can see like a daunting task.</div>
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4. The Cracker Barrel has the greatest bacon cheeseburger and apple cider ever.*<br />
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*This could have just been my hungry self making me believe this. </div>
Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-21977040630462579782013-10-11T12:07:00.002-04:002013-10-11T12:25:27.503-04:00Riley's ING Hartford Marathon Preview<b>TOMORROW'S THE DAY!</b> Louie and I are about to face our very first marathon tomorrow in Hartford, CT. Our friend Nick will be joining us for his first 26.2 as well. This is probably going to be the best bonding experience ever, haha.<br />
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I've spent most of this morning just trying to mentally prepare for the race. I've been thinking a lot about why I started training in the first place. I feel like I've always had the goal of running a marathon one day, but I never knew when. I'm a huge fan of Shay Carl on YouTube, and when I started watching he was a relatively big dude. He decided one day that he didn't want to be big anymore, lost over 100 pounds, and finished the LA marathon in 2012. If that's not inspiration, I don't know what is.<br />
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I thought, if he could do it, then I (a person who's been in relatively good shape my whole life) could <i>totally</i> do it. And with that, my life as a long-distance runner began. <span style="font-size: x-small; text-decoration: line-through;">(What was I thinking?!)</span> I took the time to watch all of his marathon videos this morning to get me pumped up, and I thought it'd be nice to share one with you all. Who knows? Maybe he'll inspire you to run your first marathon like he did for me!<br />
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I'm looking forward to this race. I know I can accomplish this goal that I've set out to accomplish, and I can't wait to <a href="http://versustheroad.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-ing-hartford-marathon-preview.html" target="_blank">get that medal</a>!!! I'll be vlogging our experience in Hartford, so look forward to a nice long marathon video! :)</center>
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P.S. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter for progress updates during the race! </center>
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<b>Louie's Twitter: </b><a href="http://twitter.com/lsimoes3" target="_blank">@lsimoes3</a></center>
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<b>Riley's Twitter: </b><a href="http://twitter.com/rmfickfack" target="_blank">@rmfickfack</a></center>
Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-57096603439068361332013-10-11T09:35:00.001-04:002013-10-11T09:53:25.218-04:00Louie's ING Hartford Marathon PreviewIn about twenty-four hours Riley and I will be running the ING Hartford Marathon. I would be lying if I said I was not nervous. It is a pretty daunting objective. <div><br></div><div>When we first started this blog the timer on the side said 200+ days. Now it is down to hours. We have experienced a lot since starting this. Two half marathons, an obstacle race, a 10k and training runs. These are what will see us to the finish line. Anything you put your mind to you can achieve. </div><div><br></div><div>Also, these really cool finisher's medals help! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVWSBe4MaYHjl5I6dLHlfpJkwtfRUwEfOZoYCKT_JXIjMStUhhNIin0URYjLSwrVKxLX11-Zmk2KY2-IACWS_A8dHi2wvSJvE8yii2n-CF2fgubIFHyZPML1PQa3MFEPnlAW0OFYw96k/s640/blogger-image-1658217067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVWSBe4MaYHjl5I6dLHlfpJkwtfRUwEfOZoYCKT_JXIjMStUhhNIin0URYjLSwrVKxLX11-Zmk2KY2-IACWS_A8dHi2wvSJvE8yii2n-CF2fgubIFHyZPML1PQa3MFEPnlAW0OFYw96k/s640/blogger-image-1658217067.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-60915307181361150932013-09-22T13:01:00.002-04:002013-09-22T13:11:46.869-04:00Race Review: Color and Glow 5K<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufXRvqSb1qYgpimdeNr3datPfWu1zsZHO1XQicpG1ehAZOoOaT0JR17jbOYlbCIeEV1HLt5tbc9RJUmQtJ31c51WuYRreJ-vEZGup99-oHlqvFEaeOvRqFILg8CkBuFv5bix9c5yOpugF/s1600/IMG_2918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufXRvqSb1qYgpimdeNr3datPfWu1zsZHO1XQicpG1ehAZOoOaT0JR17jbOYlbCIeEV1HLt5tbc9RJUmQtJ31c51WuYRreJ-vEZGup99-oHlqvFEaeOvRqFILg8CkBuFv5bix9c5yOpugF/s1600/IMG_2918.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" width="320" /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://s3.evcdn.com/images/blackborder500/I0-001/013/833/834-6.tiff_/color-and-glow-5k-night-run-34.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>Louie and I ran in the Color and Glow 5K last weekend! It was so great to participate in a fun run type of race instead of something super duper challenging like I have been this <i>entire</i> race season. I wasn't nervous about the distance, I wasn't worried about my time, and I wasn't concerned about coming in first place (but let's be real - I'm never too concerned about coming in first place, because I know it'll never happen :P). I was just there to have a good time!<br />
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One complaint we both had about the race was packet pick up. Participants only had 2 options - the day <i>before</i> the race (which was a work day) from 11 AM to 7 PM at an off-site location, or <i>on-site </i>the day of the race from 10 AM to 12 PM (the race started at 7:30 PM) only if you were travelling more than 80 miles to the race. <b>A.</b> That's super inconvenient for participants who live close but work weird hours (like me) and can't get to an off-site location, and <b>B.</b> What are the participants that are travelling from far away supposed to do for 7 hours after they pick up their packet? A race like this <u>always</u> needs pre-race packet pick up as an option. Seriously, that's a no brainer. The only time races should be allowed to get away without race day pre-race packet pick up is if there's tens of thousands of participants and it's physically impossible to hand out all of the packets right before the race. Judging by the amount of people that were at the race, I think they could have handled at least one registration tent.*<br />
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The race was held at Brockton Fair Grounds in Brockton, MA. We showed up about an hour early (which is TOTALLY unlike us) and we were able to just hang out and take in the atmosphere before lining up. The race MC was tossing out glow-sticks at the starting line, so we weaved our way to the front of the pack to catch a few and get decked out for the race.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Before the glow sticks...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">...and after!</span></div>
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The race was scheduled to send the first wave out at 7:30, but it didn't start until about 7:50. We got a little antsy for the start of the race, but it also gave us the opportunity to take in the atmosphere, rack up out glow stick collection (I think I wound up with about 12 or so, haha), and get excited for the race to come!<br />
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Personally, I was expecting more lights along the course - kind of like the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVTSvaNGrXE" target="_blank">Electric Run</a> - but the route was, for the most part, pitch black and since the majority of the race was through a field, I was super worried I was going to step into a hole (which I did a few times) and injure myself. For this reason, I was extremely careful about my footing the entire race, which definitely took away from the fun. I would love to see this course more well lit (bonus points if it's colorful lights!) in years to come.<br />
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I would like to have been covered in more paint, also. I sign up for races like these to be <i>doused</i> in color. We were in the first wave, so I understand that they had to conserve for the other runners, but adding in some more paint stations along the course would be awesome. (Side note - they didn't tell the voluteers not to shoot paint into the runner's faces. I wouldn't be surprised if some of the other runner got their eyes painted, because I certainly swallowed some. >_>)<br />
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Either Louie and I totally beasted the course, or it wasn't a full 5K. I think we finished in about 22 minutes (neither of us timed it because we were just there for the fun!) which is extremely fast for both of us. I wasn't too surprised about the short distance (we experienced the same thing for <a href="http://www.colormerad.com/" target="_blank">Color Me Rad</a>) because these types of events are more about the fun experience than completing a <i>true</i> 5K, which I think is awesome. I love that there are events like these to encourage people to get active and introduce them into the running world with something fun!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Post-race glow!</span></div>
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The race bling was really cool - colorful glow in the dark medals! It's definitely one of my more unique pieces of race jewelry. Our originally-white bibs also got totally covered in glow paint, which gave them a cool splatter effect. Loving that I have some color on my bib wall now! :)<br />
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This was a <i>really</i> fun race with a LOT of potential. They need to add a few things to make this a truly great event, but I think with each year this race will improve and become bigger and better. I can't wait to see where it goes! If you're looking for a fun, unique approach to fitness and night life, definitely check Color and Glow out!</div>
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P.S. Check out my video from the event! :)</div>
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To find a Color and Glow 5K event near you, visit their website <a href="http://www.colorandglow.com/nightrun/">www.colorandglow.com</a>!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*It was pointed out to me that there was a registration table at the event, but it wasn't advertised <i>at all</i>. We were both under the impression we had to go to the times on the website. So frustrating!</span>Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-21810118214773099512013-09-15T18:29:00.001-04:002013-10-11T10:46:07.712-04:00What I've Been DoingIt's been a while since I've written on the blog. Riley has been picking up my slack like a champ. I wanted to check in and let you know how training is going and how a few of the races I've done were. <br>
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First, this summer was pretty rough fro training. I felt like if I was not injured then I was sick, but that did not keep me from doing some running throughout the summer. I did do enough training to feel prepared for The Hartford Marathon, which was the goal when this blog was started. As part of the training, I have run my furthest distance which was about 15 miles. In my preparation for the marathon, I have learned that while 20 mile long runs may be productive, they are not completely necessary. If you can complete a 16 mile run heading into the marathon you should be okay. this is an opinion that was shared in more than a few articles.<br>
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I've, also, managed to get in some fun races as well. Riley wrote the review for the Harvard Pilgrim Finish at the 50 so I won''t go into too much detail about that. I will say that it was an awesome event and was slightly more difficult than when I ran it last year.<br>
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The week before the Finish at the 50 race, I ran the Warrior Dash in Barre, MA with my friends Nick and Danielle. This was a 5k obstacle race. All in all, I think it was a pretty fun race to run too. As far as obstacle races go, it was not the most difficult one that I've run. I'll get to that one in a minute. It was, however, challenging enough where someone with experience running them may still have a challenge, but it is not too daunting for new runners. Some of the obstacles were a barbwire crawl, cargo net climb, wall climb, and up & overs. One of the coolest things about it is that the finisher's medal doubles as a bottle opener.<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Finisher's Medal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing after the Warrior Dash</td></tr>
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On September 7th I ran the Super Spartan Race in Vernon, NJ. This race was hardest race I've ever done. It is 8+ miles and 15+ obstacles. The terrain was probably the biggest obstacle of the entire race. It was on a ski resort. For about the first two miles we had to go up the mountain. this was brutal. The obstacles were many of the usual ones including a barbwire crawl, up and overs, rope climb, sand bag carry, and spear toss. One of the unique twists was that their cargo net was a vertical cargo net as opposed to the angled ones that make a pyramid. This was the biggest test of will I have done to date. The sense of accomplishment after was indescribable. <br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandbag Carry</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Fire Jump.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Accepting that I'm about the catch a shot to the stomach and seeing the finish line.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating with a post race PBR.</td></tr>
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Well, that's what I've been up to since my last check-in. What have you, our readers, been up to?<br>
<br>Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-2922671682802180992013-09-12T10:08:00.001-04:002013-09-12T10:11:22.386-04:00#POWERMONTHIt's finally here - <b>we're in the last month leading up to our first marathon.</b><br />
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My last few weeks of training haven't been the best. Yesterday I set out on a 5 miler and couldn't make it through. Granted I had about zero nutrients or water in my body and it was insanely humid, so it probably wasn't the smartest idea to run at the time. I haven't really been taking care of my body the way I should be.<br />
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But for this last month, I'm making a promise to myself - get my body ready for this marathon in every way possible! I'm going to call it...<br />
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Hyration . Nutriton . Stretching . Running . Sleep</div>
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These are my 5 frames of focus for this race. Constantly drinking water (which I've actually been doing really well with!), cutting out the junk (including my high sugared-high creamed coffee x_x) and loading up on <b>healthy</b> foods, stretching for at least 20 minutes every day, staying on my running plan, and making sure I'm getting enough sleep.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">This is where it all counts, and I want to be prepared for this race as possible. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I think I can ask at least a month out of myself to get ready in every way!<br /></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><b>#POWERMONTH</b> - Let's do this!</span></div>
Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-32415773569176667012013-08-31T11:08:00.001-04:002013-09-15T22:44:50.142-04:00Preparing for an LSD RunNo, I'm not talking about running on acid.<br />
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In the running world, LSD stands for <b>long, slow distance</b>. When training for a race, it's good to work one of these runs in every week, ideally on a day when you have lots of time on your hands! The goal of these run isn't the time, it's the distance. You're ultimately just trying to achieve a certain distance (that is usually <b>obscenely longer</b> than what you usually run) with little to no stops, no matter how long it takes. When I go out on LSDs, I'm usually just shuffling my feet by the end of it, looking like an old lady. But I reach my goal distance one way or another!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">How I feel during LSDs</span></div>
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These runs are supposed to introduce your body to the amount of stress it will feel during a longer distance race. You need to get used to being on your feet for a few hours at a time, your muscles need to feel the impact of your feet pounding the pavement repeatedly, and your brain needs to practice fighting through the physical anguish that you're putting yourself through which will ultimately push you across the finish line. Sounds appealing doesn't it?</div>
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Your LSD should be your dress rehearsal for your actual race, and you should prepare accordingly. Hydrate the entire week leading up to it. Load up on (good) calories and nutrients the night before and morning-of. Warm up and stretch your muscles the way you would the day of a race. And make sure you pack all of the supplies you need while out on your run. Here's what I usually bring with me.</div>
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<b>1. Cell phone</b></div>
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Since an LSD <i>isn't</i> an organized race, there aren't always going to be medical personnel near by to come to your rescue if anything were to happen. If there's an emergency, if you feel like you physically can't go any further and you need someone to pick you up, or if someone needs to contact you while you're gone for a couple hours, you'll be thankful you brought it with you!</div>
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<b>2.</b> <b>Identification/Insurance Card/Blood Donor Card/Emergency Contact Info</b></div>
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I like to carry all of these things with me if for whatever reason I get hurt and become unconscious. Since I'm normally running solo, there won't be anyone to identify me to anyone else who might find me. This way, they know my name and address, have a number to call one of my loved ones, and can relay some medical information to any medical personnel that arrive on the scene. If you don't want to carry all of these things with you, definitely consider buying a <a href="http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx" target="_blank">RoadID</a> and wearing it while you run!</div>
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<b>3. Camelback</b></div>
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I don't like carrying water bottles, so I strap on a Camelback when I go out on long runs. Makes for great, hands-free running!</div>
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<b>4.</b> <b>Running Belt</b></div>
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I usually wear long spandex when I go out on LSDs, so that means zero pockets. Instead of having to carry everything in my hands for 3 hours, I just strap on one of these handy running belts! They look pretty nerdy but its better than juggling 13 things.</div>
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<b>5.</b> <b>Nutrients of Some Sort</b></div>
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I'm not big on gels or goos or what have you, but I do think it's important to bring some sort of nutrients with you on big runs. After sweating for such a long time, your body will be screaming for some sugar or salt towards the tail end of a big run and ust water will <i>not</i> do the trick. Pack a granola bar or banana or plan your run where you can stop at a store and buy something to eat. You'll definitely feel the difference!</div>
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<b>6.</b> <b>Podcasts, Audio Books, and Playlists - oh my!</b></div>
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LSDs can be excruciatingly boring - <i>especially</i> if you're going it alone. I love my music, but there's only so much of the same 100 songs that I have loaded onto my running playlist. I like to load up my iPod with podcasts and audio books as well, so A.) I'm learning something new and B.) It's kind of like there's someone chatting with me along the way! Definitely try downloading a few of those or have someone else make you a playlist of their music so you're hearing something totally new during each run!</div>
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<b>7.</b> <b>Suncreen, Hat, and Sunglasses</b></div>
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Since you'll be outside for a particularly long period of time, make sure you're preparing for it - especially in the summer! The sun can take a lot out of you, and cause scary things like severe sunburn, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, migraines, and more. Protect yourself!</div>
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I hope these tips will be helpful for your next LSD run! </div>
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I'm off on an 18 miler myself... Wish me luck!</div>
Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-79640327870814138142013-08-27T15:23:00.002-04:002013-08-27T15:23:54.956-04:00Training Update: Lazy Long DistanceWith a little under 7 weeks to go until Hartford, I've been swinging between long distances and complete laziness. Marathon training has been <u>tough</u> and has definitely brought out the whiney couch potato in me.<br />
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<i>"But I don't WANNA go running!" </i>-Me. Almost every day. Also I think I heard a two year old saying something similar just the other day...</div>
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I'd like to sound noble and awesome and tell you that I've gone out on every single run my schedule has told me to do, but then I'd be lying (and that's the opposite of noble and awesome). The truth is that I usually skip at least one scheduled run every week. Sometimes my body is just not up for it, so I make up excuses in my mind and I can't get myself out the door.<br />
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I am, however, going on my long runs. Like, high-teen mileage status. Because I'm slacking on my mid-distance days, they're probably a lot more difficult than they should be, but they're getting done, none the less. I <i>am</i> still pretty apprehensive about this whole 26.2 business. So far I've only made it up to 17, and 18 is in the cards for me this Saturday. Those are <u>long</u> distances, and I'd still have an additional 8 or 9 miles to go on top of that come race day. I'm not sure how I'm going to do it, but I guess I've just got to trust my body and brain to push me across the finish line.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Here's my vlog from my 17-miler. I seem cheery mid-run, but the next day update makes it clear I was struggling!)</span></div>
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With these critical last 6 and a half weeks of my training colliding with the busiest possible time of year for me professionally, it's definitely going to be a challenge to get my booty out the door when all I want to do is hide under my blankets watching Netflix during my down time. But these 6 weeks are going to go by in a blink, so I'll be strapping the Nikes on and pounding the pavement and looking forward to October 13th when I can be lazy and not feel guilty! :P</div>
<br />Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-91361600079424809362013-08-06T14:03:00.000-04:002013-08-06T14:03:07.568-04:00Runner's EnvyThe other day while eating lunch, one of my co-workers said that she has <b>"runner's envy"</b>. I've never heard of this term before, and as I set out every day on my painful multi-mile runs, I couldn't imagine <i>anyone</i> being envious of me. But once I thought about it, it occurred to me that runner's envy is pretty common. Even I have a mild dose!<br />
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Runner's Envy is what it sounds like - when you're envious of runners. Even if you're a runner yourself, you can have Runner's Envy (and personally, I think it's <i>more</i> common if you run on a regular basis!) You may see another runner that's faster than you. Another runner that's clearly in better shape than you. Another runner that's running further than you. Another runner that has nicer gear than you. It could be any single attribute that another runner possesses that you don't, and it can totally throw off your confidence.<br />
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A few weeks ago while I was out on my run, I came across another female runner who was <u>a lot</u> faster than me. She was on the opposite sidewalk from me, but going in the same direction. I saw her come up out of the corner of my eye and blast right by me like it wasn't a big deal. Even though I had no idea who this girl was or what kind of runner she was, I was jealous and began to doubt myself.<br />
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<i>What if I'm not good enough? </i></div>
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<i>What if I won't be able to accomplish my running goals? </i></div>
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<i>Maybe I should just quit while I'm ahead.</i></div>
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But then I realized - I don't know who this girl is or what kind of runner she is. How she trains has no effect on how I train. Maybe she's faster than me, but can she run long distances like I can? Is she training for a marathon like I am? Is running her main fitness focus like it is mine? I'll probably never know, and once I realized that, I felt liberated and could easily focus on my own run and training.</div>
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Every runner is different. Every runner has their strengths and weaknesses. The trick is to stay focused on yourself and what <u>you</u> need to do in order to accomplish <u>your</u> goals.</div>
Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-57699844709869596142013-07-31T00:19:00.002-04:002013-07-31T00:19:52.626-04:00Blogger turned VloggerHEY EVERYONE! I figured the ol' running blog needed some dusting (considering I haven't written in about 3 weeks... >_>), so I wanted to drop by and say hello!<br />
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There's a million excuses I could give you for <i>not</i> blogging here, but I'll save you the other 999,999 and give you the only excusable excuse I can think of - I've been logging all of my training on my YouTube channel via vlogging!<br />
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I told you guys a while back about my <a href="http://versustheroad.blogspot.com/2013/06/16-weeks-to-go.html" target="_blank">vlog project for the last 16 weeks of training</a>, and I've stuck with it so far! Unfortunately, it's leaving me a little less motivated to utilize this beauty of a running blog, but I'm hoping to change that. I can't let another blog of mind wind up in the internet cemetery for under-utilized websites! :P<br />
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To tide you over until I can come up with some fresh material, here's a little training update:<br />
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<b>1.</b> I ran the Foam Fest 5K with my parents on the 13th! It was a lot of fun, and is on my to-do list of race reviews, but until then, here's the video!<br />
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<b>2. </b>I still have yet to officially register for Hartford (These damn bills acting like they're more important. Pshhhhh) but I'm still training for it like I am. Eventually I'll scrape up the money to get myself a bib, and I'm hoping that's within the next few weeks or so!</center>
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<b>3.</b> I'll be honest and admit I've missed a few runs, and in an attempt to make them up, I've totally stressed myself out. Since stressing myself out during this training is the one thing that I want to avoid, I decided to ditch the make-up workouts and stick to the schedule. It feels like the world's been lifted off my shoulders!</center>
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Hope you guys haven't missed VStR too much! I'll try to make a better effort of giving this space some love. In the mean time, check out <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?feature=edit_ok&list=PLMkLlR8DEzLiXGkFw-rdM90OxVa0RWpuO" target="_blank">the MaraVLOG playlist on my channel</a>!</center>
Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-29606204475649945842013-07-09T10:52:00.000-04:002013-07-09T10:52:01.952-04:00Race Review: Havard Pilgrim Finish at the 50<center style="text-align: left;">
Last week Louie and I (along with Nick and my parents) ran the Finish at the 50 races. My dad ran the 5K, while the rest of us ran the 10K in 90 degree weather with 85% humidity like crazy people. The event was <i>A LOT</i> bigger than I expected, and hands down the largest race I've ever run. I'm used to about 2,000 people tops, but this was the kind of race that if you split up, it was almost impossible to find each other again.</center>
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I was not properly fueled for this race. I had worked all day before hand, and couldn't really hydrate properly (I work retail and you can't have a water bottle on the sales floor) and between working and packing for the holiday weekend, I didn't eat all that great throughout the day. Needless to say I was feeling it! I finished in 1:02:41, though, so I'm not too upset about it!</center>
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I was a little disappointed in how the race was run. The water stops, though nicely spaced out throughout the course, weren't long enough to accommodate the amount of runners, and there was a huge back up at every station. You also couldn't get back into the stadium once you stepped foot off the field, which was super annoying. I think the runners should have been able to come and go as they needed as that was the only place with post-race water.</center>
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The event itself was fun, though! It was so cool to be on the field at Gillette. I know that there are various NFL sponsored races that have the same idea as this one, so be sure to check for races near you! :)</center>
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Check out the video from the race below!</center>
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Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-81135287470263676262013-06-27T21:17:00.003-04:002013-06-27T21:17:20.992-04:00Race Review: B.A.A. 10KOn Sunday June 23, 2013, Boston Athletic Association hosted it's first race since the Boston Marathon on April 15, 2013. Parts of the pre-race ceremony were used to pay tribute to the victims as well as the heroes who acted on that fateful day. This event drew 5,436 participants. Many of the runners were sporting a shirt in support of Boston.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Starting Line</td></tr>
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It turned out to be a great event. It was helped greatly by my friend Lauren running the event with me. As part of registering, runners received a B.A.A. 10k Adidas tech shirt and a finisher's medal. The course itself was beautiful with flowers and the architecture around Boston. The race started and ended at The Commons. The rest of the course is sort of a blur because I was so focused on completing the race, but I can say that it was mostly flat and there were plenty of water stops along the course. These were extremely helpful because it was a hot day even at 8 AM.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race S.W.A.G.</td></tr>
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Lauren really helped to push me to continue at a pace. A big part of running is mental and because it was such a rough month, I was a little worried about my ability to run. We finished in around an hour which was fine by both of us because it meant we average less than 10 minutes a mile, but this race was also about more than our finishing times. <br />
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The experience of running this race was more than just challenging myself. It felt more like a therapeutic exercise for many involved. The running community is great and to see the support within this group was amazing. There were the elite runners, including Lelisa Desisa the winner of this year's Boston Marathon, recreational runners and even runner's who were inspired to start running to honor the victims. It was a great display of camaraderie. It was easily one of my favorite races I have run.<br />
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A few interesting things that happened on Sunday. Adidas had their Boston Stands As One shirts for sale both before and after the race. A few of the sponsors where Marathon Sports, Powerbar, Poland Springs and Adidas. Lastly, and the most important detail I have not said yet, is that Lelisa Desisa post race decided to give his winners medal to the City of Boston as a sign of solidarity. It is a very touching measure and means a lot to many. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lauren rocking the race S.W.A.G.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The set-up on the Commons</td></tr>
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<br />Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-16255723121206653932013-06-24T11:19:00.001-04:002013-06-24T11:19:55.479-04:0016 Weeks to Go!<div>
Whattup y'all!</div>
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<b>GUESS WHAT.</b> There's only 16 weeks (even less now!) until Louie and I run the Hartford Marathon! That means it's time to kick our training into HIGH GEAR! </div>
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I've decided that I want to vlog my training throughout these 16 weeks to document my journey. I just posted the first video on my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/rmfickfack" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a> this morning, in which I talk about my training plan and the vlog project itself. Make sure you subscribe and check back every Sunday for a new video! :)</div>
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P.S. You can find the training programs that I talked about in the video <a href="http://www.halhigdon.com/" target="_blank">here</a>!</center>
Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-43645012082789974712013-06-11T13:00:00.000-04:002013-06-11T13:00:01.061-04:00Race Review: Superhero Scramble<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The new official photo of the VS. the Road crew :P</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">This past weekend Louie and I ran the <a href="http://superheroscramble.com/" target="_blank">Superhero Scramble</a>! The New England race was what they call a "Charger", which means it was their shortest race at approximately 4 miles and 20 obstacles. It was hosted at Amesbury Sport Park, a popular location for New England obstacle races. With <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tropical_Storm_Andrea_(2013)" target="_blank">Tropical Storm Andrea</a> hitting the northeast on Friday night, the race got pushed back three hours, so we didn't get there until the afternoon - nice change of pace after all these early-morning starts!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">We had our friends Brett, Kristen, and Jeff come along with us to spectate. Unfortunately, they had to spend $20 just to get in, which is all well and good - obstacle races cost a lot of money to put on - but I was disappointed in what they got in exchange for the entry fee: a $5 ticket to the merch tent (</span><span style="font-size: small;">none of them wanted to buy merch for an event they weren't participating in) </span><span style="font-size: small;">and a view of the smallest portion of the course possible. All three of them agreed that the $20 would have been worth it if they got a free beer or burger, and access to more obstacles so they could take pictures and cheer us on. I would have loved to have them cheering me on at all of the obstacles that were just over the hill from where they were waiting for me! If they had done a bit more for the spectators, I bet more people would spend the money to come to the event.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">Off we go!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">First of many climbs.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">There were many different types of people running the race, from elite athletes to those attempting the first athletic event of their life. I would say that the majority of the obstacles are totally doable by everyone participating, and if you couldn't complete the task, you had the option of taking the penalty of 10 burpees and 10 spins on the dizzy bat. (They may as well have given us a couple shots of tequila instead!) The obstacles we had to complete were:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;">Up and down a giant hill twice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Climbing the wall near the start (pictured above)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Up and over a cargo net which was pretty high off the ground - definitely made me face my fear of heights!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Run through tires</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Crawling under barbed wire</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">"Leap of Faith" - a 15-20 foot drop into a pool of water. We just got up there and jumped before we thought of how far the drop was and freaked ourselves out, haha. Lost my headband at this point!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Swimming under barbed wire</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Swing across a pool of water on rings</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">More barbed wire!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Dragging a cinder block through sand</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Carrying a sandbag across a river</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Rock Wall (this obstacle was closed - I guess it got ruined in the storm)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">A number of walls you had to get up and over, or under and through</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Mud holes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Balance Beam</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Rope climb</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Army Crawl through mud and under barbed wire</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Slip n' Slide (I'll detail this one in a bit)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">"The Beast" - a giant wall that you had to scale using a rope that looks like this:</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;">"The Final Battle" - two guys that are trying to tackle you that you have to dodge</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I was able to get through all of them <i>except</i> the rings and the rope climb. Let's be honest - I have little to no upper body strength.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The Slip n' Slide was my only real complaint about the course. Apparently while we were out on the course, the Slip n' Slide broke or something, so instead of shutting the obstacle down (you know, the smart, safe thing to do) they just took half of the tarp away (the part of the tarp that would have plateaued and slowed you down) and let people slide their way onto the ground at top speed. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13.333333969116211px;">What are you <i>doing</i>?!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'm sure this was fine when the bottom was still grass, but after hours of racers and water sliding down, the bottom turned into rocks and gravel. They didn't warn us about the rough landing, so Louie and I went down the slide, oblivious to what would happen. I bruised up my arms and booty pretty badly, and Louie scraped his side and legs. We saw a few people at the bottom with broken bones, and after the race there was tons of people with scraped up backs and bums. <i>Not</i> a smart idea on their part at all. Even if you have people signing injury and death waivers, you shouldn't have obstacles that are straight up <b>unsafe</b>. With an event this scale, they should have known better than that. Just shut it down next time.</span></div>
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Trying to ignore the pain of the slide...</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The Beast was definitely the obstacle I was most nervous about, but when I finally got to it I had a pleasant surprise!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Brett had volunteered to help the event staff out and basically ran the obstacle! It was definitely a comfort to have a familiar face helping out on the obstacle I was most nervous about. :) I really didn't think I was going to make it over the wall (again, no upper body strength!) but Brett came up with an idea of pulling the rope while I walked up the wall... </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">...and I made it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Louie also made it up the wall, although he's a bit stronger than me, and didn't need as much assistance. I'm proud of us for making it up!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">One thing that would have made The Beast better would definitely be better padding at the bottom. There were only hay bales to catch people if they made that enormous drop, and again, I saw <i>a lot</i> of injuries at this obstacle. Jeff suggested using high-jump mats at the bottom of this obstacle, which I thought was a perfect idea. It's an extremely high drop to just be caught by a hay bale, especially when people are falling back first, or even head first.</span></div>
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Finally finishing!</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Louie and I finished at 1:47:56 and 1:46:35 respectively, although obstacle races are more about getting through each obstacle and finishing rather than time.</span></div>
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Finisher's medal close-up</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'd say that despite a few safety issues and benefits for spectators, this race was put on well and a lot of fun. Superhero Scramble is still in its first year of touring the nation and they're working out a few kinks, so I really hope they take runner reviews into serious consideration going into their second year to make their event even better. I would love to do this event again next year to see how far it comes!</span></div>
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Obligatory before and after photos!</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A big THANK YOU to our friend Kristen for taking photos! <br />Check out more of her awesome photography by <a href="http://kristennoblephoto.com/" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">If you'd like to see more race photos, check out <a href="http://fiveleveninety.blogspot.com/2013/06/mud-sweat-and-bruised-bums-superhero.html" target="_blank">my personal blog</a> for a few of my favorites!</span></div>
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Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-5182504552824088042013-06-10T13:41:00.000-04:002013-06-10T13:41:01.721-04:00Race Review: Memorial Day Marathon 15K Trail Race<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple weeks ago I ventured over to the Berkshires to run the MDM 15K Trail Race. The race was part of a huge race weekend sponsored by Berkshire Bank, which also included a 5K, 10K, half marathon, full marathon, and a kid's race. The 15K Trail Race, which happened on Saturday, was the first race of the weekend.</div>
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Unfortunately it was raining the morning of the race, which made waking up at 4AM and the 2 hour drive slightly miserable, but I decked myself out in Red, White, and Blue (even put a bow in my hair!) to celebrate Memorial Day, slapped a smile on, and hit the road!</div>
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Since I live so far away, the early packet pickup wasn't an option for me, so I had to be at the race site at 7AM sharp to beat the lines and pick up my number and swag bag. The registration fee came with a super nice tech shirt, a "Boston Strong" wristband, and some other goodies from local running stores. Berkshire Bank also matched the amount of registration fees for the weekend and donated them all to One Fund Boston, which I thought was a fantastic part of this entire event!</div>
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The race began at 8:15. There was about a mile of road that we had to run before hitting the trail, but it was full of great views of the Berkshires. There were 3 different trails that we looped (slowly and carefully, as it was very slick from the rain) but the second one was <u>by far</u> the most difficult to conquer. The second trail was essentially straight up the side of a mountain. I tried so hard to keep running, but eventually I had to break down and walk, along with everyone else. I did, however, make sure I ran the flat parts, the uphills that were reasonably steep, and the downhills that weren't to slick.</div>
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I would have to say that this was the most difficult race that I have run so far. I figured that being used to trail running and being a half marathoner would make this 15K a piece of cake, but I was <u style="font-weight: bold;">wrong</u>. I'm more proud of myself for finishing this race than any other race I've run so far. I came in at 2:01:11, which gave me a pace of about 13:01. Far slower than my <a href="http://versustheroad.blogspot.com/2013/04/race-review-great-bay-half-marathon-2013.html" target="_blank">half marathon PR</a>, so that should give you some idea of how hard it was!</div>
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If you're looking for a challenge and you're in the half marathon range in your training, I suggest trying a trail run for a change of pace. It will test your endurance, strength, and mental toughness, and will make you feel <u>awesome</u> once you finish!</div>
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<br />Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-58580358944638450912013-06-05T08:52:00.001-04:002013-06-05T08:55:03.327-04:00Happy National Running Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No matter how far, fast, or often you do it, make sure to get out there today and celebrate your ability to run!</div>
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<b>Happy <a href="http://www.runningday.org/" target="_blank">National Running Day</a>, Everyone!</b></div>
<br />Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-88522384586244419592013-05-28T09:24:00.002-04:002013-05-28T09:26:40.225-04:00I Dream of Sneakers<span style="font-size: x-small;">...the title of a hilariously terrible sitcom, starring a girly running geek, such as myself.</span><br />
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Considering that I've had the same running shoes since July 2012, I'm in desperate need of some new sneakers. Every run is painful, and I know once I get some better cushioning on my feet, my speeds and confidence with longer distances will come back. I'm currently ballin' on a budget, so brand new sneaks are hard to swing. But it doesn't mean I can't drool over the prettiest, most obnoxiously colored shoes out there!<br />
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<a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8799774375966/t2l6n_2301_0010127290_f_l_primary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8799774375966/t2l6n_2301_0010127290_f_l_primary.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/Shop/Footwear/Running/Womens/GT-1000%C2%99-%282A%29/p/0010127290.2301" target="_blank">Asics GT-1000 (2A)</a></b></div>
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$100</div>
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<a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8815671640094/t2k7n_3801_0010127282_f_l_primary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8815671640094/t2k7n_3801_0010127282_f_l_primary.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/Shop/Footwear/Running/Womens/GT-2000%C2%99-%282A%29/p/0010127282.3801" target="_blank">Asics GT-2000 (2A)</a></b></div>
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$120</div>
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<a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8799763759134/t365n_9035_0010145622_f_l_primary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8799763759134/t365n_9035_0010145622_f_l_primary.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/Shop/Footwear/Running/Womens/GEL-Excel33%C2%99-2/p/0010145622.9035" target="_blank">Asics GEL-Excel33 2</a></b></div>
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$125</div>
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<a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8815664627742/s256y_3693_0010126292_f_l_primary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://www.asicsamerica.com/medias/sys_master/images/products/8815664627742/s256y_3693_0010126292_f_l_primary.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.asicsamerica.com/Shop/Footwear/Training/Womens/GEL-Blur33%C2%99-TR/p/0010126292.3693" target="_blank">Asics GEL-Blur33 TR</a></b></div>
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$90</div>
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<a href="http://images.nike.com/is/image/DotCom/PDP_P/Nike-Free-50-Womens-Running-Shoe-580591_373_A.jpg?fmt=png-alpha&&wid=1342&hei=958&fmt=jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://images.nike.com/is/image/DotCom/PDP_P/Nike-Free-50-Womens-Running-Shoe-580591_373_A.jpg?fmt=png-alpha&&wid=1342&hei=958&fmt=jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-667026/pgid-670502" target="_blank">Nike Free 5.0</a></b></div>
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$100</div>
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<a href="http://images.nike.com/is/image/DotCom/PDP_P/Nike-Air-Max-2013-Premium-Womens-Running-Shoe-580405_416_A.jpg?fmt=png-alpha&&wid=1342&hei=958&fmt=jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://images.nike.com/is/image/DotCom/PDP_P/Nike-Air-Max-2013-Premium-Womens-Running-Shoe-580405_416_A.jpg?fmt=png-alpha&&wid=1342&hei=958&fmt=jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-667009/pgid-795209" target="_blank">Nike Air Max+ 2013 Premium</a></b></div>
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$190</div>
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<a href="http://images.nike.com/is/image/DotCom/PDP_P/Nike-Zoom-Structure-16-Womens-Running-Shoe-536974_403_A.jpg?fmt=png-alpha&&wid=1342&hei=958&fmt=jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://images.nike.com/is/image/DotCom/PDP_P/Nike-Zoom-Structure-16-Womens-Running-Shoe-536974_403_A.jpg?fmt=png-alpha&&wid=1342&hei=958&fmt=jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/?l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-673762/pgid-654033" target="_blank">Nike Zoom Structure+ 16</a></b></div>
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$110</div>
<br />Rileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09116982228825892049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-60808988589342493802013-05-25T13:20:00.000-04:002013-05-25T13:20:14.358-04:00Race Review Round Up: Navigant Credit Union Running Festival, Boston Fund Run, and Tough ScramblerIt's been a while since I've reviewed any of the recent races I have completed. I have done three races since my last review. The three races are the Navigant Running Festival Half Marathon in Pawtucket, RI, Boston Fund Run/Walk 5k, and Tuff Scrambler 5k Obstacle Run. These are just quick little snapshots of what I thought of each of the races.<div>
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The Navigant Running Festival Half Marathon was on May 5th and started at 8 AM. Needless to say, this start time was a bit rough. I saved a little time by going down the day before to pick up my bib number and race t-shirt. Part of the pre-race ceremony was a moment of silence for the victims of the Boston Marathon Bombings. There were also bracelets given out that said Rhode Island runs for Boston. </div>
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Overall, I was a very nice race. It had some great scenery while running as the end portion took you through a part filled with cherry blossoms. The course itself had a few hills nothing too challenging compared to the Great Bay Half Marathon. I ended up setting a half marathon PR with a time of 1:56:25. It was a pretty great feeling to do a sub 2 half.</div>
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Next up was the Boston Fund Run/Walk 5k was organized by a local race organizing company, Northeast Race Management, LLC. The race itself was free. They asked that you make a donation to One Fund Boston. It was a great community event. I was really excited that I could participate and the best part was that it helped raise over $3,000 towards the cause. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The participants for the Boston Fund Run</td></tr>
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Lastly, I ran the Tuff Scrambler again. It was my second time as I ran it last October as well. It was a different race as they added a few new obstacles to the course. the two most obvious additions was a new mud crawl, climbing stairs and under wooden walls. It was still as fun of a race as I ran in October and I got even muddier than last time. I still highly recommend this as a beginners obstacle race if you are in the area. It is a great introduction.</div>
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Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8388706134565351996.post-49155192951408437492013-05-09T20:59:00.000-04:002013-05-10T11:23:38.486-04:00Me, a Runner?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzZE6zTMynZKHZwanQwbjRmwwmpcKCsaebT7nzEZ2I5O3JpuxrwKoAmVcKObuh68mrelSkxcgmsK1kbdHApWc6t0I74sYxdsJ6SsT8HwIt-NDZHLImg_EaPHMRjRxNvQndp19BFuCclw/s1600/o-BOSTON-MAGAZINE-570_original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzZE6zTMynZKHZwanQwbjRmwwmpcKCsaebT7nzEZ2I5O3JpuxrwKoAmVcKObuh68mrelSkxcgmsK1kbdHApWc6t0I74sYxdsJ6SsT8HwIt-NDZHLImg_EaPHMRjRxNvQndp19BFuCclw/s320/o-BOSTON-MAGAZINE-570_original.jpg" width="243" /></a>It is now May 11th and I have not written a post for VS. the Road since April 10th. I have been doing a lot of thinking about running and what it means to me. It might seem like a strange thing to say but I have always resisted considering myself a runner. I have never thought I was good enough or running enough to be considered a runner. Well this all changed five days after my last post. The Boston Marathon became the target of a terrorist attack and everything I had thought changed.<br />
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I saw a community come together and rally. I saw runners on a day that they had worked so hard for become selfless. Many had continued on after the marathon and ran to to nearby hospitals to donate blood. Many of the images that have come from that day are inspirational. Marathon runners, volunteers, first responders, and even spectators ran to help victims without a second thought. They show that people are selfless that in the darkest moments, you can always find the light. Something to check to out is Boston Magazine's story behind there recent cover: <a href="http://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/blog/2013/04/25/behind-our-may-boston-marathon-cover/" target="_blank">Boston Magazine Story</a><br />
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So, how does this relate back to the title of this article. Well, it was after this that I finally realized I was a runner. The running community is amazing. On top of the examples I have already stated many races have embraced One Fund Boston and have pledged to donate part of the proceeds from the races to the fund. This past Sunday, I ran the Navigant Credit Union Half Marathon. We were given bracelets that said "Rhode Island Runs for Boston" and a moment of silence was held before the race for the victims as well. I am, also, doing a 5k Fun Run/Walk next week that is free and is asking for donations instead of a registration fee. It's amazing the way the running world has rallied. It truly is an amazing community.I cannot fully express in words what it means to be a runner. I think the only way to completely understand is to run, but what I do know now, and will never again question is:<br />
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<b>I am a RUNNER!</b>Lsimoes3http://www.blogger.com/profile/00067620463664987143noreply@blogger.com0