Mesa-Phoenix Marathon Race Weekend

Have you ever run a race and thought to yourself when you finished, “I’m never doing that again!”  For me, the marathon was that race.  In 2016 I ran the LA Marathon and it was not the experience I had hoped for—I was undertrained (completely my fault!), got injured during the race, had a bloody nose during the race and cried when it was over, not of joy but of frustration and disappointment.  I took some time off from running after that race until I started my Run Streak and during 2017 focused on distance and Ultras.  But it in the back of my mind, there was always that little voice telling me I needed to redeem myself in a marathon.  So a few months ago when my friend Justin asked me if I wanted to run the Mesa-Phoenix Marathon, I said yes.

Friends make running more fun!

The race was on a Saturday so I decided that I would drive to Arizona on Friday morning, hit up the expo and hang out for the #WeRunSocial meet-up.  The weather in Southern California has been a bit odd this winter and I actually had snow on my drive through the mountains.  I made my way to Arizona in good time, checked into my hotel and headed over to the expo.  My only other marathon expo experience was the LA Marathon and that expo was huge! The expo for this race wasn’t that big, but I did see some of my favorite brands and even scored an awesome deal on a pair of Altra shoes.  After picking up my bib and shirt, I had some time before the meet-up so grabbed some lunch at a nearby restaurant.  As I was making my way back to the expo, I heard, “TwoPairDontCare and a We Run Social hat—you must be Jenn!”  This is how I met Elle—if you don’t follow her on social media, you should.  She’s so much fun!  

Elle!

We made our way to the meet-up—it’s always fun to catch up with people I only see at races and meet new people.  If there is ever a #WeRunSocial meet-up at a race you’re running, go!  It’s one of my favorite parts of race weekends. After the meet-up, it was time to head back to my hotel, put together my flat runner and get some sleep. 

 

#FlatJenn ready to run!

I woke up race morning ready to go—I’m an early bird so I arrived in plenty of time to find parking and catch the bus to the start line.  I had plans to meet some friends at the buses, but they both got stuck in race traffic so the plan shifted to meeting at the start line.  (parking and race morning traffic can be a bit of a cluster so if you ever run this race, I would definitely get there early)  The start line was up a mountain and despite my extra layers, it was cold!  Thank goodness for the bonfires and heaters they had set up for us.  I had worn a throw away sweatshirt and pants—I ditched the pants shortly before the 6:00am start but decided I would start with my sweatshirt on.  I’ve never started a race wearing a sweatshirt but it was definitely a smart decision—I ended up tossing it between miles one and two.



Always have fun!

One of the things I was most excited about for this race were the views, but with the 6:00am start, it was dark and once the sun came up, the views were residential areas and businesses.  I was also excited about the downhill aspect of this race—I love downhills.  There were definitely downhills, but not quite what I was expecting.  Overall, I would say this course is flat.  The course is a little boring and there weren’t a lot of spectators, but I was running with friends so that made it a good time.  The aide stations also seemed to get a little more sparse in the second half of the race which surprised me since that portion of the course saw both the full marathon and half marathon runners.  I was also surprised at what seemed to be the lack of medical support on the course—I did not see any medic tents or anything available at the aide stations.  (I also wasn’t looking for it, so maybe it was there, but usually that stuff is quite visible) There were a few fire trucks parked alone the course so maybe that was the medical support.  Overall, this race is pretty organized.  The pre-race communication was on point and the volunteers were amazing! (Have “traffic” control at the pre-race porta potties is a big plus for me! No confusion as to whose turn it is)  The medal is simple, but I like it.  (and kind of wish I had started this race two years ago so I could earn the star)  I think the race shirt is really basic, but do like that it’s a tank.  I would definitely do this race again and would encourage other people to do it.

 

 

I went into this race with one goal—do better than the LA Marathon.   My time was less than stellar there so I knew it was possible but I also know that I’m very much a mental runner and didn’t want to be over confident.  I ended up taking  98 minutes off my LA Marathon time!  I was stoked (and am still on my runner’s high as I type this!)  I run every day, but didn’t specifically train for this. I stopped a few times during the race for pictures and to talk to people.  I had a blast.  And better yet, I had the redemption I wanted.  And a renewed desire to see what I can do if I train and push myself a little harder.  This is the first race in a long time that I was truly happy with everything I did on race day and that is one of the best feelings!

After the race, the ProCompression ambassadors that were in town for the race met up for lunch and it was a blast!  ProCompression rocks my socks and I love being a part of this group—it was great to talk with everyone in person.  I can’t wait to do this again!



They rock my socks!

I also had a chance to meet Run Far founder CJ and his wife Mallory for dinner that night.  What I didn’t know is that Hannah, the first recipient of the Run Far Sergeant Sean Northcutt scholarship, would be there. (See Hannah’s story here)  And fellow Run Far Ambassador David joined us to!  So much inspiration at one table full of all the feels. I even got to "meet" Hannah's mom as she FaceTimed in.  It was the best way to end such a good day! I am grateful to be a part of such an awesome organization.



Run Far



 

Sunday morning I woke up early to head back to San Diego.  One of my favorite things about road trips is exploring so I made some stops, ran some trails, stopped for lunch at a cute little small town restaurant and took my time getting home. 

 

Never stop exploring!

The only bad thing about this race weekend is that it had to end.  It was such a good time full of good running, good people and good vibes.  I am so grateful to all the people who were a part of it, from those at the meet-ups to the people who sent me messages of encouragement and support.  I truly believe that the people are what makes running so amazing.

What makes running amazing for you?

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

Ray Miller 50K Recap

Late last year, I decided I wanted to try running an ultra race.  I ran a marathon in February 2016 and frankly, I didn’t enjoy the experience.  Once I started trail running, the idea of running a 50K (or longer distance) was much more appealing.  My original plan was to run Leona Divide in April but life happened and I had to postpone my first 50K, so I signed up for the Ray Miller 50K.

In October, I had a last minute opportunity to run the Lake Hodges 50K and I am so glad that I did.  During that race, I was able to learn some opportunities that I have with hydration and find out how my body would handle the 50K distance.  During that race, I also made plans with Jenn and Vanessa for Ray Miller.  They were both also signed up for it, along with Alexis, so we decided to carpool and room together.

Traffic Views

The race was on a Saturday (I love Saturday races!) so we headed up to Malibu on Friday afternoon.  The traffic wasn’t great but it wasn’t awful either.  (You never know what you’re going to get with traffic in the Los Angeles area)  The company was great and the views were amazing so the trip went by rather quickly.  After checking into the hotel and getting dinner, it was back to the hotel to get some sleep for the early wake up on Saturday morning. 

#FlatJenn and all her essentials

The Ray Miller 50/50/30 offered a 50 mile race, a 50K race and a 30K race.  We were all running the 50K which started at 6:30am.  We arrived around 5:30am to check-in, get our bibs and do all the last minute race stuff. 

Let's Do This!

Starting at the Ray Miller trailhead in Point Mugu State Park, the 50K promised a lot of hills with amazing views.  It did not disappoint.  I stayed with Jenn, Vanessa and Alexis for about the first ten miles of the race as we sang and entertained our way through the course.  At one point, I heard someone refer to us as “Team Rocket” because of our Orange Mud hydration packs.  As much as I was having with them, I knew eventually I would fall behind and start running my own race.  During the Lake Hodges race, I dealt with some bad leg cramping issues so I was focused on upping my hydration and listening to my body.  This course was also a lot more technical and challenging than any trail I’ve run before—I knew that listening to my body would become the most important thing.  

Elevation! (They call it "Hell Hill" for a reason!)

When I run longer distances, I try not to think about how many miles I have left.  Instead I try to think about how much longer to the next aide station.  This is the second Keira Henninger race that I’ve run and she runs a very organized, put together event.  Every aide station was fully stocked and the volunteers were amazing!  The course is very well marked, with either signs or ribbons leading the way.  I never once felt like I might be going the wrong way.

The pink ribbon meant I was going the right way

This course is one of the prettiest I have run—with views of the ocean or mountains, no matter where you looked, you were surrounded by beauty.  It was also challenging, with a lot of single track and brush to deal with.  The elevation was no joke and my legs are definitely feeling it the next day.   Although I did have some leg cramps, they were easily walked off and I know as I continue to run the longer distances, I can try to figure out what is causing that.  My overall time was not what I had hoped for, but I am happy with my race.  I felt strong; stronger than I did at the 50K I ran in October.  Looking back, there were parts that I hiked that I probably could have run but I know at the time, I gave it everything I had in me in the moment.  I listened to my body, I stopped to enjoy the views, made friends along the way, cursed my way up “Hell Hill,” and ran the race I had in me. 

In awe. So pretty!

 At the end of it, the Ray Miller 50K is one of those races that I said, “I liked that race.  I want to do it again.” Overall, I’d call that a win.  Sometimes the race is more than the time on your race—this was one of those races for me and I loved every second of it.

Running with friends is better!

 What has been one of your best races, regardless of time?

 

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1

2017 Holiday Gift Guide for Runners

It’s the most run-derful time of the year which means it’s time to start your holiday shopping.  I usually wait until the last minute, but this year I’ve vowed to start early.  To help me do that, I’ve made a gift guide for all the runners in my life (and a list of things I secretly want myself)

 

Hurts So Good

Recovery  is an important part of running.  If you’ve ever had the chance to try Rapid Reboot recovery boots, you know how amazing they can be.  The only downside? The cost.  But they are definitely worth it. 

Source: www.rapidreboot.com

 

Their Own Personal Cheerleader

I don’t mean the kind of cheerleader you’d find on the sidelines of Monday night football- I’m talking about the kind the can take anywhere they go.  If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll often see pictures of my Momentum Wrap bracelets—they’re the perfect pep talk during my runs.  These were on my list last year and made it again this year because of the new SPARK boxes—with four options to choose from, there’s something for everyone. 

Source: www.momentumjewelry.com

Stocking Stuffers Socks

It’s no secret that I love ProCompression socks and I #KeepItTight whenever I run.  This time of year, they have some great deals.  Not only do ProCompression socks offer the benefit of compression for running and recovery, they have the best colors and designs.  I’m also loving the “Lifestyle” line for everyday wear.  (And for Cyber Monday, they’re offering two pairs of marathon socks for $40.00 when you use the code BFCM)

Gifts That Give Back

Run Far Trucker Hats

I love a good trucker hat and Run Far trucker hats fall into that category.  Simple in design, they come in a good selection of colors and are quality hats.  The best part about them?  All the profits of items purchased from Run Far go to provide educational scholarships for children of fallen service members who have committed suicide.

Source: www.run-far.org

Gift Cards

How does a gift card give back? Simple.  Get one to your local running store—not only are you helping a small local business, you’re giving the runner in your life an experience that they won’t find in a big box store.  Local running stores will give them the personal shopping experience and knowledge they deserve. 

For the Runner Who Isn’t Running

Red Horse and Co.

I am a big fan of “arm candy” and earlier this year I discovered Red Horse and Co.  She makes beautiful bracelets and necklaces—her site has “pre-made” ones or you can special order the colors and sayings you want.  The bracelets are so comfortable—I forget that I’m wearing it when I have it on.  I love that I can bring running with me in my non-running life with these bracelets. 

 

Source: www.redhorseandco.esty.com

It’s The Thought That Counts

My favorite gifts are the gifts that come from the heart—it can be as simple as a note on a Post-It or simply finding time to do something I like to do.  Sometimes it’s easy to forget that runners do things other than run—as you think about the runner in your life, think about the other things they like to do. If you can't think of anything, offer to go for a run with them.  I promise any miles run with someone they care about will be better than any other gift.

 

What are you wishing for this year?

Until next time, happy running.

Jenn13.1