Nanny Goat 24 Hour Race

Last weekend, I headed up to Riverside, California to run in the 24 Hour Nanny Goat event.  I’ve started this recap three different times and each time I start over, unsure of how I want to approach it.  I’ve decided to answer the questions I’ve been asked the most since the race.

What was the weather like?

Like a lot of runners, I often watch the weather the week leading up to a race.  I was a little nervous because this race wouldn’t just be a few hours—I had to pay attention to 24 hours worth of weather.  Midweek, a possibility of rain showed during the middle of the night.  The weather forces were in our favor and the weather was fantastic for the race.  It was a little hot during midday but with the help of popsicles and the ice bandanas Missy made, it never felt too bad.  We also made sure to stay on point with sunscreen and applied it every hour or so. 

What did you eat?

Fueling during an ultra distance is definitely different than other races I’ve done.  Some runners will focus solely on liquid fueling, gels or real food.  I tend to do a mixture of all of them.  I used Tailwind and Muir Energy gels on a regular basis.  The aide station was stocked with things such as potatoes, watermelon, quesadillas, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, pizza, hamburgers and other snacks.  During the night, they also had soup and warm foods available to help with the cold weather.  My go-to real food choices tend to be potatoes and watermelon. 

So you ran for 24 hours?

The race event started at 8:00am on Saturday.  They had a few different race options—a 4 hour, a 12 hours (morning or night 12 hours), a 50 miler, a 100 miler and a 24 hour event.  Missy, Christy and I signed up for the 24 hour event.  To be honest, this is what I was most nervous about—would I be able to stay awake and run for 24 hours?

Saturday Night Sunset from the Course

The late night hours were the hardest for me, both physically and mentally.  The 12 hour runners had already gone home, the spectators were sleeping and you were no longer surrounded by people.  I even reached out on social media because I needed some motivations.  The running community is amazing and came out in full force—I received so many messages, I was that girl ugly crying as she was making her loops- my heart was so full. 

Around 1:00am, I started having major stomach issues like I had never had before.  I was still a bit away from my goal, but I knew I needed a break.  So I took a 45 minute nap.  A part of me was disappointed in myself that I had to stop but I also know it was the smart decision.  And it’s amazing what a 45 minute nap can do for you!

How far did you run?

I ended Nanny Goat with 65 official miles. (my watch had 67 with bathroom stops, etc..)  Prior to the event, people would ask what my goal was and I honestly didn’t have one.  In August 2017, I completed a 40 mile event which is the furthest distance I had ever done so I didn’t know what my body was capable of.  I am happy with the 65 miles but I also know that I could have done better.

"Cone of Death"

I did not prepare for Nanny Goat mileage the way I should have.  I ran a full in February and a half in March but otherwise most of my runs this year have been less than 10 miles.  That’s not smart training and I know better.  Next year, I will train the way that I should.  I will have goals.  I will reach them.

Was it “loopy?”

Nanny Goat is a one mile loop and for many, the idea of that seems daunting.  I had never run a loop course like this so I wasn’t sure what to expect.  I loved it.  I liked knowing I was never more than a mile away from “camp.” I loved seeing the spectators every mile.   I was also easy to make friends on the course because you see the same people a lot during your time there. 

Would you do it again?

Abso-freaking-lutely! I had such a good time and I can’t wait to go back next year. 

Why?

When you tell someone you’re running a 24 hour race, “why?” is often the response.  There are a couple different whys for me.

First, it started as a girls weekend with two people who are very important to me and I was looking forward to sharing the time with them.  Christy broke her leg in another race the weekend prior to Nanny Goat, so Missy and I wore a picture of her to make sure she knew she was with us in spirit. 

My second why is the community.  Experiencing an ultra is unlike any other race experience you will have.  I saw people laughing with strangers, sharing stories when people who were close to tears, people throwing up and people sharing the joy of a sport they love.  I was inspired by a cancer survivor pushing through to 50 miles, a woman cheering on every runner who came by her campsite and my friend reaching a course record. I was inspired and overwhelmed by the people who encouraged and supported me, especially when I was struggling. An experience like this will change you.

Race Swag

My last why is because I had something to prove to myself. Last fall I had some medical issues which required me to lower my mileage dramatically.  I had people questioning me as a runner and though other’s opinions shouldn’t matter, I started to question myself as a runner.  Quite frankly, I was in a running funk and Nanny Goat gave me the opportunity to prove to myself that I can do hard things. 

I don’t know exactly what I was looking for at Nanny Goat, but I found it.  I ran 65 miles—it wasn’t easy and it wasn’t pretty, but I did it.  And I’ll be back year, chasing 100 miles. 

I am a different person that I was before the start of Nanny Goat and I am forever grateful that I had that experience.  Have you ever run a race that’s changed you?

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1

Bay to Breakers-- The Good, The Bad and the Naked Truth

When I found out that I would be in San Francisco the weekend of the Bay to Breakers race, I decided I wanted to run the race.  When I registered, I discovered they not only offered the 12K distance, but you could also add an extra 3K, called the Breaker Bonus, which included a free beer and extra medal. Extra medal? Sign me up!

Overall, I had the best time at Bay to Breakers.  Here’s the good, the bad and the naked truth about my experience.

Start Line!

The Good

Prior to running this race, I didn’t think I’d ever want to travel to a race for a distance less than a half marathon, however Bay to Breakers changed that.  I had the best time.  There are so many things to love about this race. 

Bay to Breakers really is one big party!  It starts in the corrals where we tossed tortillas in the air.  I’m not sure where the tradition originated, but it was fun.  The costumes were so much fun too—some were basic and some included full face make-up with a little bit of everything in between.  And the runners weren’t the only ones in costume—the spectators brought their party game too. 

Even the race mascot runs the race

The course took us through the streets of San Francisco, through a gorgeous park and along the ocean as part of the Breaker Bonus.  Even with the Hayes Street Hill, I really enjoyed the course.  It never felt boring—not only did the race have entertainment, some spectators were DJ-ing music for us too.  Like I said—one big party!

I know that a race doesn’t just happen—it takes the work of a lot of people, many who are volunteers.  And all the volunteers for the race were awesome.  From the ones at the race expo, to the ones in the finish line they were are so friendly and genuinely seemed happy to be there. 

Almost to the Finish 

Leading up to the race, the weather was a bit chaotic and the night before, thunderstorms were predicted.  Not only did that alter my race outfit, it also alter some times of the race activities.  Bay to Breakers did an awesome job of communicating to the runners and doing everything they could to ensure that we would be safe in the weather conditions. 

And those thunderstorms they predicted?  Other than about 15 minutes of rain before the race even started, it was a beautiful day.  All the extra layers I wore to stay dry and warm were lost during the race and we finished with sunshine and blue skies.  It was perfect running weather!

Will Run For Bling

The Bad

I can only think of one bad moment from today’s race.  At an aid station, I grabbed the Ultima and it was lemon flavor- I’m not sure if it just wasn’t mixed right or it was the flavor, but it definitely wasn’t what I was expecting.  I like Ultima, but I don’t think the lemon flavor is my jam.  And if that’s the only bad thing I can find with today’s race, I call that a major win!

The Naked Truth

Now to the nitty gritty.  Part of why the Bay to Breakers race is known for being one big party is that some people run it naked.  Yes, you read that correctly.  Naked. 

I knew this going into the race.  But knowing it and actually seeing it are two separate things.  I saw my first naked runner about a quarter mile into the race.  It was like an “Oh!” reaction—then after that, it wasn’t as weird.  Kudos to those runners for being comfortable in their own skin.  I’m not sure if it’s something I could ever do, but it definitely adds to the party of the race. 

Someone asked me how many runners ran naked—I don’t know a percentage, but I know I definitely saw runners in the double digits and if you’re in to statistics, I saw more men than women running naked.

One of my #runmigas, Uyen

I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun at a race.  I got to run with friends, run through a great city and party at one of the oldest footraces in the United States.  Would I run it again?  Absolutely!! I think everyone should run it at least ones to experience it. 

What’s the most fun race you’ve ever run?

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

Saucony Switchback ISO

“Life is better in running shoes.”

Since my running journey began, one of the things I’ve been told repeatedly is to make sure I’m wearing the right shoes.  My shoe needs have changed since I started running—I began in a stability shoe with a high heel-to-toe drop and now find the most comfortable shoe for me to be a neutral shoe with a  zero heel-to-toe drop.  I recognize that the type of shoe that works best for me can change over time so in the past few months, I’ve been trying out various styles to see if there is a shoe that will work better for me. 

One shoe that I’ve tried and liked is the Saucony Freedom ISO 2 so when I heard they had a new trail shoe coming out that some compared to the Freedom, I was excited to try it. 

This is how Saucony describes the shoe on their website--

“For the Switchback ISO, we partnered with BOA Technology®, creators of The BOA System, to take their dial lacing system and combine it with our ISOFIT construction, creating a game-changing fit experience that quickly and easily hugs your foot. The low profile, full-length EVERUN contoured midsole of this trail running shoe gives amazing flexibility and energy return while cradling and protecting your foot. The dual-density PWRTRAC outsole combines a firmer center footprint with a softer, tackier perimeter for traction, allowing you to conquer all obstacles in your path.”

Their description is pretty spot on, but here’s a breakdown of what I like about the shoe and what I think could make the shoe better. 

Things I totally dig about the Switchback are:

Lightweight

When I put this shoe on, one of the first things I noticed was how light it felt.   According to their website, it weighs 8.8oz.  When I’m going on shorter runs or when my legs feel tired, I definitely want a lightweight shoe.

Lacing System

I will admit that I was a little apprehensive about the BOA lacing system.  My foot is on the narrow side and I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to get the laces tight enough in the center of my foot when I needed it.  I was wrong!   I was able to get the snug fit that I like and I never felt like it became loose during my runs.  And with the BOA system, you don’t have to worry about your laces coming untied.

Sole Grip

Not all trail shoes are created equal and having a good grip on the bottom is important to me.  With a better grip, I feel more secure during my runs and it allows me to focus on other things such as form or pace without worrying about slipping.  And full disclosure—I don’t just wear my trail shoes on the trails.  I run in beach community where my runs are a combination of road, beach trails and sandy sea walls.  This shoe transitioned well to all surfaces.

The Fit

I got the Switchback in my regular size and it was the perfect fit.  It has a wider toe-box which I prefer, while still fitting how it should in the back of the shoe.  It has a contoured footbed which hugged my feet in all the right places. I’m a big believer that you shouldn’t have to break shoes in and these felt good from the get go. 

Now the things I'm not quite digging about the Switchback:

Lightweight

Yes, I know I said I loved that element.  But I also didn’t love it.  The Switchback is definitely a minimalist shoe and when I took it to more technical trails, my feet could feel everything beneath me.   If you like a minimalist shoe, you will love these.  I have sensitive feet so I know these won’t be my go-to shoes for trails that are more technical and rocky.  Perhaps a rock guard would help with this and maybe that's something they could add to future models. 

Gaiters?

I like run trails with gaiters to keep the dirt and rocks inside my shoes to a minimum.  With the lacing system on these shoes, I’m not quite sure how I would get my gaiters to stay on.  I didn’t actually try it, so I am sure that there is some way for it to be done, but there is not a front loop on the shoe that makes it obvious. 

Overall, I like the Switchbacks. A lot.  They were super comfy when I ran smooth dirt trails and were perfect for my beachy runs.  I can’t wait to explore and get some miles on them!

What’s your go to trail shoe?

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1

2018 Holiday Gift Guide for Runners

It’s the most run-derful time of the year!  And I’m back with another holiday gift guide for the runners in your life, but this year’s has a little bit of a twist. If the runner is anything like the ones I know, they have everything.  So instead of focusing on things for the runner in your life, I’m focusing on experiences for the runner in your life.

Running Tours

If you’re like me, there are many places in your city that you have yet to explore.  One of my favorite ways to explore a city is by running and so many places have running tours that will give you a different perspective of where you live.  Here in San Diego, StepXStep running has tours through various neighborhoods, each with their own history.  Another great thing about running tours—they don't just need to be local.  Is your runner traveling? Find a running tour for wherever it is they go.  Not sure where to start on finding a running tour?  Check out your local running store for suggestions.

Self-Care

Running is hard.  It’s hard on your feet and legs.  It can be hard on your spirit. Like most runners, I will tell you that no matter how hard it is, it’s also one of the best experiences.  And one way I love to keep it a “best experience” is with a little self-care.  For me, that’s pedicures.  So think about a gift certificate to your runner’s favorite salon or spa.  They don’t like pedicures? Find out what they do like—maybe it’s massages, cupping or acupuncture.  And these things aren’t just for runners—you can join in on the fun too! 

Notice the black toe nail. 

Beer Tasting

Okay—so this isn’t running related, unless you consider it carb loading.  But sometimes we forget that runners like to do things besides run.  For me, beer tasting is one of those things.  And it can be fun—I’ve been traveling a lot this year and have discovered local breweries almost everywhere I go.  If the runner in your life doesn’t drink, try visiting local eateries during a restaurant week or create your own by visiting neighborhood restaurants and ordering appetizers.  Try visiting places you’ve never been to but have always wanted to try.

Bitter Brothers Brewery

“Afoot and Afield -San Diego County”

Yes—I know I said I wasn’t talking about things in this year’s gift guides.  But as Mick, an advid hiker and trail runner,  from Lynx Running said, this book is a “gift with the possibility of exploration.”   The San Diego edition of this book offers over 200 outings—how fun would it be to go through the list and check them off with your family and friends as you complete them.  Each trip gives you mileage, difficulty level and will let you know if it’s dog friendly.  It can be fun for everyone! (Don’t live in San Diego? I found other location versions on Amazon.)

As we venture into the “Season of Giving,” I hope that we all consider that giving doesn’t necessarily mean things.  I won’t lie—if someone wants to gift me a Garmin Fenix, I will gladly take it.  But what would mean more to me is someone gifting me their time.  Spending time with me, whether it be doing something I love or something we both love, and the memories hold more value than any item every could. 

What are you hoping to receive this year?

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

Run Streak: Two Years

Two years, 104 weeks, 730 days.  That’s how long I’ve been running at least a mile everyday.  They say time flies when you’re having fun and that's definitely true!  How has it been two years already?!  When I finished my first year, I didn’t have a plan.  I knew I would keep running, but figured I would stop eventually.  But I haven’t stopped.  I keep running and without a doubt, I wouldn’t have made it through the last year without these things: 

ProCompression Socks

If you follow me on social media, you’ve seen me #KeepItTight with ProCompression on a regular basis.  It’s safe to say we’re exclusive—I wear them when I run, when I travel, when I work and when I’m not running (there are times I even sleep with them!).  Not only do they make all the fun designs, the graduated compression helps me with muscle fatigue and muscle recovery.  I won’t lie and say my legs are never tired—let’s be real, I run every day.  But I know without a doubt, my streak wouldn’t have lasted this long if I didn’t wear my Pros. And it’s a lot more fun to run with all the colors- you know my favorite is #TwoPairDontCare. 

Purpose

As an athlete for Team Run Far, I am reminded every time I run that I am running for something much bigger than me.  There are days I struggle, when I don’t want to run, when I wonder if the streak will end and I try to find every excuse not to run.  Then I am reminded why I run—each day 22 US Military Veterans take their own life and leave behind loved ones, many times children.  Those children are why I run. By raising awareness for Run Far, I am helping provide scholarships to the children of US Veterans who have taken their own life through the Sergeant Sean Northcutt Scholarship.  So on those days I don’t want to run?  I run for them.  

The Trails

If you follow me on social media, over the past year you have seen me transition from road running to trail running.  When I first started trail running—I was petrified.  What if I fall down a mountain?  What if I get bitten by a snake?  What if I get lost?  But now I embrace all those things I was petrified of. I’ve fallen.  I’ve seen snakes (but by no means want to get bitten by one!) And getting lost? It’s my favorite thing to do!  Being out on the trails gives me a sense of peace I don’t find with road running.  It makes me feel like me, a self that doesn’t need explanation.  The trails are where I find balance when it doesn’t seem possible. I still enjoy a good road run and know they have a place in my training.  But life is definitely better with some dirt beneath my feet. 

The Running Community

I am blessed to know some amazing runners through social media and in real life.  But beyond being amazing runners, they are also amazing people.  They inspire me everyday and their continued encouragement and support is everything.  Not a day goes by that I don’t get a message from one of these people, whether it’s with a silly joke or with a “you’ve got this!” Life came at me pretty hard this past year and I am beyond grateful for the love and support that has surrounded me—words truly can not express how much it has meant to me. 

A run streak isn’t for everyone—I started in 2016 with the plan of running one month and just kept going.  It isn’t always fun, but the fun days out number the un-fun ones.  I still don’t like the amount of laundry it creates but love coming up with new running outfits.  Some days I run the one mile, most days I run more. It’s a balance and now the question is what’s next?  My new goal is 1,000 days- only 270 days to go!

If you’ve ever thought about doing a run streak, go check out Pinkcupcakegirl on Instagram and see how you can be a part of this year’s #StreakingWithTheCoolKids—it starts tomorrow! 

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn 13.1 

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