San Diego Half Marathon Recap

When people ask me what my favorite local race is, I never hesitate to say the San Diego Half Marathon.  So it’s no surprise that I was back to run it for my fourth year in a row.  Because I’ve run this race before and not much has changed about it, I’m going to talk about the things I love about it and a couple things I think can be improved. So what do I love about the San Diego Half Marathon?

#FlatJenn was ready

Legacy Perks

Unlike some races that consider you a legacy runner if you’ve run every year, the San Diego Half considers your legacy status based on consecutive years run.  And you get extra perks from year 3 and up.  Since this was my fourth year, I received a ¾ zip long sleeve tech shirt.  These legacy perks definitely encourage me to come back each year.

Source: www.sdhalfmarathon.com

Runner Perks

The legacy runners aren’t the only ones who get perks with this race.  Not only does every runner get a tech tee and medal, but this year we also got one ticket a San Diego Padres game and a ticket for the USS Midway Museum.  How awesome is that?!  This year’s medal was a little different than previous years and started a four year series of medals that complete the course map once you earn all four—I know I’ll be back! (each medal is pretty awesome on it’s own too!)  There are also several restaurants around the downtown area that offer $1 pint beers and deals on brunch for runners—it’s a win-win for everyone!

Source: www.sdhalfmarathon.com

Communication

From the time you register to race day, the communication is on point.  Every question is answered before you realized you have it.  I even received a text reminding me to change my clocks since the race always falls on the weekend of Day Light Savings time. 

The Course

The course for the San Diego Half takes us through some of my favorite places to run in San Diego and if I’m being honest, I don’t completely hate the hill at mile 9.  (And how awesome is November Project San Diego who runs runners up the hill, encouraging them and supporting them)  This year’s race brought back something that hasn’t happened since it’s first year and that was the finish inside Petco Park.  I love our local baseball stadium and it was fun to run into the park, shown on the big screen with supporters in the stands cheering for you.  After I finished, I hung out for a bit catching up with friends, taking fun pics and watching other runners finish.

Source: www.sdhalfmarathon.com

The Aide Stations and Volunteers

I have never run this race and thought afterwards, “I wish they had one or two more aide stations.”  Not only do they have enough aide stations, there are amazing volunteers handing out the electrolytes and water along with words of encouragement.  The best part of the stations—they have signs telling you when the next aide stations and restroom would be available, for example you next water stop might not be for two more miles.  In areas of the course that are a bit harder for spectators to get to, they have local high school cheer groups and bands for entertainment.  It feels like there is someone cheering you on for the entire 13.1 miles.  I also like that they have medical tents as well as Race Guards on the course—after the half I ran last year when I needed medical attention, I am now always grateful to see this.  I hope I never need them again, but I feel better knowing that they’re there. 

The People

Running a race where you live means you’ll usually see a few people you know.  But this race (as well as the Rock n Roll San Diego race in June) seems to bring out so many of my local runner friends.  I love being able to see so many of them in one day, whether they were out running the race, on the course spectating or just happen to be running in the area. 

  

Runners make the best friends.

 

With so much that I love about this race, it really is hard for me to come up with things I think need improving.  The only thing that really comes to mind is the expo—in my opinion, it’s a little small and a little chaotic to get to.  Although the location is nice, having to find parking in a touristy part of San Diego can sometimes be difficult.  The long, narrow space of the Broadway Pier makes some of the booths harder to access especially if it’s a busy time at the expo.  For these reasons, I usually grab my bib and shirt, bypassing the booths all together.  But really in the big picture, if the expo is the only thing I don’t love about a race, then it’s a good race. 

Fun photo spots inside Petco Park

Without a doubt, I will be back to run this race next year.  Do you have a race you love running every year?

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

Del Dios Trail Half Marathon Recap

In October, I volunteered at a race put on by the Endurance Race Series.  Not only did I have a blast seeing what happens on the other side of the start line, I also received an entry into one of their future races.  I quickly signed up for the Del Dios Trail Half Marathon—I had heard great things about the race and thought it would a great way to end my race year.

The week before this race, I ran the Ray Miller 50K and I can’t lie—the elevation of that race impacted my running more than I anticipated.  Though I am still streaking, I was also actively resting and had a low mileage week.  The Del Dios event offers a half marathon, a 10K and the 5K distance.  The week leading up to the race, I kept telling myself I would make a race day decision about what distance I would run.

I woke up the morning of the race and felt pretty good.  I had run ten miles the day prior and it didn’t feel awful.  I quickly got ready but made a rookie mistake—I didn’t eat breakfast.  I don’t usually eat a lot before a race but I always have some type of protein drink and a banana.  I definitely know better and I definitely paid for it during the race.

 

#TwoPairDontCare Ugly Sweater Socks

I knew within the first mile of the race that I really had no business running it.  My body is still in recovery mode and I could never find my groove.  I struggled from the beginning and that struggle lasted most of the race.  At one point, I even texted a friend and said I was going to DNF.  I contemplated turning at the 10K turnoff and finishing that race (the first part of the half and 10K were run on the same course)  After a pep talk and a reminder not to be so hard on myself, I decided that I would finish the half.  I knew it would not be my best race.  I was even prepared to be the last finisher.  But I kept pushing along, running when I could, walking when I needed to and taking it one step at a time. Shortly after mile ten, I caught up with two runners in front of me. We chatted a bit and I asked if they had done the race before.  One told me it was her first half marathon—how awesome is that! What she doesn’t know is that was just the little push of encouragement I needed—her accomplishment was a great reminder of how far I’ve come in my own journey and why I love the running community so much.  So thank you random runner! 

The views!

Aside from my performance, there are some awesome things about this race.  There were wild fires in Southern California the days leading up the race and the pre-race communication was on point, with updates letting us know what was going on with the race.  The course, though a bit rocky, is scenic and was well marked.  The volunteers at the aide stations were great, cheering for every runner as they came through.  ERS also does finish line areas right—not only do they have the standard fruits and waters, there were chips, pastries, grilled goodies and beer.   The swag is also pretty sweet—I love that they offer a fitted tee.  

As my race year came to an end with this race, I’m looking forward to what 2018 brings.  And I’m excited to announce that I will be joining the Endurance Race Series Ambassador team.   With five races in the Sunshine Series, I look forward to seeing you there.   The next one is the San Pasqual Valley Half Marathon/10K on February 17, 2018. 

How did your 2017 race year go?

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

Trekz Titanium Mini Review

Disclaimer: I received the Trekz Titanium headphones from AfterShokz  for review in conjunction with FitApproach and SweatPink. All opinions are my own.


I stopped listening to music on my runs sometime last year—although I love listening to music, I wanted to be more aware of all the other sounds around me during my runs.  When I read about the bone conduction technology used in the AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headphones, I was intrigued.  When I had to opportunity to try them out, it was a no brainier.  There are two different sizes, regular and mini, and based on their guidelines, I opted for the mini.   I loved all the colors and couldn’t decide—after texting a few friends to get their opinions, I decided on the pink. 

How do they work?
The AfterShokz headphones work with bone conduction technology.  According the their website:

"Bone conduction is a natural part of the hearing process—sound travels through our eardrums and bones simultaneously. We've taken the concept to the next level through development of a suite of proprietary audio technologies and design patents. The result: headphones that deliver unrivaled situational awareness and comfort.

Transducers guide mini vibrations through the cheekbones to the inner ears, delivering sound without plugging or covering them."

Put simply, you will "hear" the sound through your cheekbones, thus leaving your ears free to hear the other noises around you.  This allows you to #BeOpen on your runs or other fitness activities.

When I received the headphones in the mail, I was excited to try them right away.  After unpacking them, I charged them completely and set them out with my running clothes for the following morning.  

The headphones come with a case, charging cord and ear plugs.

When I got to my running destination the next morning, I powered up the headphones and they quickly connected to my phone.  I put them on, placing them over my ears, trying to get a comfortable position with my trucker hat and sunglasses.  These headphones fit a little differently than standard headphones or earbuds and it did take a bit of adjustment to make sure they were comfortable. 

When I used them on my first run, I was honestly surprised at how clear the sound was.  I truly was able to listen to my music and hear the other noises going on around me.  I often run at trails with mountain bikers and I found a level of comfort knowing that I would be able to hear their "On the Left" warnings or bells/horns.  The only downside to this was hearing all the wind that is normally blocked out by headphones that go into your ears.

The Trekz Titanium headphones use Audrey Says voice prompts and it was nice to have the connection confirmation with you turn them off or on.  She also gives you a warning when the need to be charged-- I was quite impressed with the battery charge.  The headphones are listed as having 6 hours of charge time, but I feel like I got more time than that on a single charge.  Over a two week time period, I only charged them once and I used them on ninety percent of my runs. When they are connected to my phone, a headphone icon with battery charge is displayed which makes it nice-- no one wants their headphones to die during the middle of their run. 

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with the headphones.  I found myself using them more than I thought I would, although I do find them more comfortable when I'm not wearing a hat.  I even wore them a few times at home to listen to podcasts while I was doing chores-- there were times I even forgot I had them on.  The longest run I used them on was fifteen miles so I am not sure if the would start to bother me on any longer runs.  However, they are compact enough to fit into my Orange Mud pack so it would be easy to take them off and put them away during a run. 

I do a lot of trail running so I appreciated that I was able to listen to music and hear the critters around me-- it's snake season in Southern California and I definitely don't want to miss the warning of a rattle! They are also sweat resistant which is great for every type of runner, especially during the summer months. 

Want to win your own pair of AfterShokz Trekz Titanium? Find out "How to Have it Both Ways on Your Run" and enter to win here.

Don't want to wait to find out if you win?  Order you AfterShockz Titanium Trekz here- use the code SWEAT at checkout and they'll send you a free stainless steel water bottle with your order.

What type of headphones do you run with? 

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

Run Streak: One Year

Last year my friend Jen hosted a Running Streak for the month of June—we were to run a mile everyday and at the end of the month everyone who had completed the month would be entered into a drawing for awesome prizes.  I love prizes and had several other friends signing up, so I thought, “Why not?”  Although it officially started on June 1st, I ran on May 31st-- so began my Run Streak with #StreakingWithTheCoolKids.

When I started the streak, I didn’t know if I’d make it through the entire month.  But after the first week, then the next, I though maybe I really can do this.  And sure enough, I made it through June running at least one mile everyday.  And once the month was over, I didn't want to stop.  So I kept running.  My new goal became 50 days and then 100 days.  Once I reached 100, I knew I had a decision to make.  So I kept running.

If you follow my adventures on Instagram, you know what happened next.  I have officially been streaking for one year and seven days.  From May 31, 2016 to May 31, 2017 I ran 1,877 miles. During my streak, I’ve been asked a lot of questions.  Here are some of the more common ones.

Why?
When people ask me why, my short answer is “why not?” My long answer is a little more complicated.  I love how the streak has challenged me and how it pushes me to keep doing more.  I love proving to myself that I can. Is a run streak for everyone? No, but right now it’s right for me.

 Do you always feel like running?
There are days when the answer to this is a big NO.  But my desire to keep my run streak going out weighs my desire not to run.  On those days I don’t want to run, I keep the distance to a minimum.  Some days my legs are tired, some days I’m just tired and some days I’m just busy.  But I can always find ten minutes to get a mile in.  

 What’s the threshold for your streak?
I run a minimum of a mile a day and it must be a solid mile before I start on my intervals/hiking.  There times when this fluctuates a little-- I run a lot of trails and there are a few trails where the first mile is a steep, rocky climb so on those runs, my solid mile might come in the middle of the run. 

What do you like least about the run streak?
The laundry! When you're running seven days a week, no matter how many running clothes you have, there always seems to be laundry to be done.  There are some days I run twice so that means even more laundry. 

What do you like most about the run streak?
Hands down, the support and encouragement I get from my friends, family and social media.  From running miles with me, to texts of encouragement and overall support, the people in my life rock.  

What's next?
I'm going to keep running.  Jen is hosting the #StreakingWithTheCoolKids streak again so I'm in for at least the month of June.  My next goal is 500 days, but I honestly can't foresee stopping any time soon. I'm going to run as long as I can.  

Have you every done a run streak?  How long did you run for?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1  

Inaugural San Diego Beach & Bay Half Marathon

Living in San Diego, I frequently run on the coast exploring the beaches and bays.  When I heard about the Inaugural San Diego Beach & Bay Half Marathon and 5K, I knew I wanted to check it out.  Run somewhere I do a lot of my training runs at and get a medal for it? Sign me up!  I went into the race knowing there might be a few glitches since it was in its first year, but also knew the views would make up for any of those.  With two distance options, I decided to run the half marathon.    

Like all races, I knew there were going to be things I loved and things that I feel can be improved for the next year’s race.  The things I loved about this race were:

Bib Pick-Up
You had two options for bib pick-up, either picking it up the day prior or race day (with no additional charge).  I like to have my bib before going to a race so opted for the day before.  It was scheduled to start at 2:30pm and I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at 2:00pm and it was already in full swing.  It was quick and easy- organized with friendly volunteers and people ready to answer any questions you had.  It had a mini-expo feel to it as there were also vendor booths, free beer samples and discounts available for the running store it was at.   

Race Start Time
The Half Marathon started at 6:30am and as an early runner, I loved it!  It meant waking up super early, especially since I was car pooling with Smitha and we were getting there early.  But it also meant that I had a fantastic nap that afternoon and I never miss an opportunity for a good nap.  

The Course
The beach is one of my favorite places to run and this course did not disappoint. The views were pretty and even the “ugly” parts of the course were pretty.  It even took me through some parts of the bay/beach that I’ve never explored by foot.  It was also clearly marked and there were volunteers to direct us at all the important turns. 

The Volunteers
I know that a big part of races being successful is the volunteers and they were awesome for this event, from bib pick-up to the finish line.  And the big shout out to the volunteer just after mile 3—spirit fingers and high kicks with shouts of encouragement definitely added a little pep to my step.  

The Swag
From the medal to the post race snacks, they took care of us for the half. I also loved that they have a v-neck shirt for the women's shirt-- I appreciate when races have the different shirts as I am not a fan of the any unisex shirts fit me. (You were able to pick your shirt fit/size in case you do prefer a different fit)

Race Guards
I have said it in previous recaps, but it’s worth repeating.  I love races that use Race Guards.  I feel safer on my run knowing that first aid is readily available should I need it.  During the race, I did see a few injured runners and the response from Race Guards was on point.  A big kudos to all the Race Guards who volunteer their time to make sure the runners have a safe race.  

The Post Race Experience
I don’t often hang out after races, but this way too fun to miss.  There were booths with samples, fun picture opportunities, live music, food trucks and a beer garden.  Fun for the whole family!   

The Brew Dr. Kombucha Samples were so good! 

With so many good things about this race, there were just a few things that I think can be improved upon for next year.  

Aide Stations
The weather in San Diego during May is a little unpredictable and when I saw earlier in the week the expected highs for the coast on race day was 80 degrees, I knew it was going to be a hot race.  I kept my fingers crossed for an overcast morning, but that didn’t happen—there wasn't a cloud in sight.  I know the heat is not a controllable factor, but I definitely felt it.  I do carry my own hydration, but also use the hydration on the course to make sure I will have enough for the entire race.  If I didn’t have my own hydration with me, I wouldn’t have had enough with just relying on the race’s aide stations.  In my opinion, there could have been at least one or two more stations on the course.  There were also a couple stations that were set far back off the course and it was a bit congested as people had to walk off the course to get the water and walk back on after getting their water.  I don’t know if I would feel this way if the weather wasn’t as warm as it was, however I would rather err on the side of having too much hydration than not enough.  

The Course
Yes, above I said that I loved the course, but there were a couple things I didn’t love about it.  Other than the portions run on the road, the course was not closed to the public.  This meant that we were sharing the course with other people out running, walking,  or riding their bikes. This caused quite a bit of congestion at the parts where the course narrowed and it was a safety issue a few times when I saw runners almost hit by people on bikes or have to come to a sudden stop when the walkers in front of them suddenly stopped.  There were a few times I saw people cutting the course and I think this might have been in reaction to getting around the other people out there. I’m glad that people are out enjoying the sites of San Diego and quite frequently I am one of those people so I don’t know what the solution is to this.  I imagine it would be hard to get permits to close an entire beach boardwalk or path.  Maybe next year, they can have a few more volunteers dispersed to help with “traffic control.”  

Race Photographers
This is the first half marathon I've run that hasn't had race photographers. At the very least, I thought I'd see one at the finish line- if this was my first half, I'd definitely want a finish line photo.  With so many pretty views, there was definitely great scenery for awesome running shots.    

UPDATE: The race organizers sent out an e-mail to all the runners and the lack of photographers was not due to the race organizers- the contracted photographers did no show up for the event.  I'm looking forward to seeing if there are any photos of me in the ones that will be made available to us and I appreciate the race's candidness about the situation.  

From the email sent out

With this being the Inaugural year of this event, I wasn’t sure what to expect so I went to into with a very open mind.  Overall I had a lot of fun (even if it didn’t feel like it at the time—I am not a fan of hot weather running and my time definitely showed that) Despite the few things that I feel can be improved upon, I would love to run this race again.  It will be fun to see if they do any type of legacy status for the upcoming years of this event.  

Have you ever run an Inaugural race?  Did you run it again?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

Disclaimer: I received my race entry in exchange for promotion of the event, however all thoughts and opinions are my own.