#Run4AllWomen California Recap

Earlier in the year, I started seeing posts on social media about #Run4AllWomen and I was intrigued.  One of #Run4AllWomen’s  guiding thoughts is “resist the status quo and work tirelessly to advance the conversation around women's issues.” As a woman and as someone who believes that women’s rights are human rights, this cause spoke to me.  When one of my Instafriends, Whitney, announced that she has been selected as an ambassador for #Run4AllWomen and that there would be a Southern California run, I knew I wanted to be involved.  

The Southern California event would take place on a Saturday, running from Encinitas to Chula Vista or forty miles.  The event was to benefit and raise awareness for Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. Whitney and the her partner in the race planning and fellow #R4AW ambassador, Amy, had broken the 40 miles into legs so that runners (and walkers) of all levels could participate.  When registering for the event, I couldn’t decide how many legs I wanted to run.  After some internal debate, I decided to sign up for all the legs—I was going to attempt to run 40 miles.  

Prior to this event, I had never run a distance more than 26.2 miles.  A part of me was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to complete all 40 miles, so I told very few people.  I rationalized that if I didn’t tell people, it would be easier to accept if I didn’t make it.  Since very few people knew, that also meant that very few people knew I was in taper mode the week leading up to the event.  I was definitely cranky—I’m sorry for what I said during taper mode. (If you’ve ever tapered, you know what I’m talking about.)

This recap is going to be a little different than my usual race recaps—I had such an amazing experience and I’m still on my runner’s high, that I can’t quite contain my thoughts.  So I’m just going to talk about all the things I loved about this event.

The Organizers
Amy and Whitney did an amazing job organizing this event.  From planning a route that would be runner friendly and safe for us, to pre-event fundraising events and communication, they were on top of everything.  If you’ve ever planned an event, you know it can be stressful. Although I’m sure there were times they were stressed, they never let it show.  Their enemy was contagious and you couldn’t help but want to be involved.  

We ran 40 miles! Amy and Whitney are amazing!

The Event Volunteers
I can’t express in words how incredible all the volunteers were during this event.  Marc and Mike were with us for all 40 miles, following us in a van making sure we had water, fuel and anything else we could need at each leg stop.  Each leg stop also had other volunteers with signs, supplies and plenty of smiles & encouragement. During the first half of the event, a volunteer named Rachel followed along, holding up signs and honking as she drove by, checking on all the runners, making sure we were okay and didn’t need anything.  I wish I had the names of all the volunteers—there is something about a group of people who will give up their time on a Saturday to support a group of runners.  I am so grateful for everyone who came out to support us.

Mile 17 Aide Station

The Runners
Throughout the day, 50-60 runners made their was from Encinitas to Chula Vista.  Some ran a couple legs, some ran double digit miles and three of us ran all 40 miles.  During that time, we laughed, we cried, we loved and we supported each other, all running with a purpose.  Each milestone was celebrated.  A runner, Lisa, had never run more than 13 miles—she can out and ran 17.  How awesome is that?!  When Amy and I went past 26.2 miles (the furthest either of us had ever run) you can bet we stopped, high fived and celebrated.  When a runner looked like they were struggling, another runner would fall behind to check on them.  When a runner looked tired, another runner would give them a pep talk to keep them going.  I believe that runners are amongst the best types of people and this event just confirmed that for me.  

The first leg runners

The Finish Area
The love bubble and energy continued at the finish area.  There were more volunteers there cheering the runners in as they finished.  There was music and post run snacks.  (And the best ice cold Coke I’ve ever had thanks to Mick from Movin Shoes who also saved me at mile 20 by bringing me some salt) There was post-run yoga led by Mady who did an awesome job in helping us stretch and getting centered.  As tired as everyone was, you could feel the positivity.  

I had such an amazing experience during the #Run4AllWomen California event.  When I started my running journey, I never imagined that I would be participating in something like this.  I ran 40 miles—it’s the next day and I still can’t wrap my head around it.  It’s an amazing feeling to know that you are capable of something like that.  I know without a doubt that I wouldn’t have been able to do it without being surrounded by this amazing group of people (and my virtual race crew who sent me message throughout the day).  This experience reminded me why I fell in love with running and I will forever be grateful for it- my heart is full.  I can’t wait to see what they do next year.  

#R4AWCA

Have you participated in a run that’s changed your life?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

My Ultra Training Essentials

As week nine of my ultra training nears its finish, I am about a third of the way through my training.  During this time, I’ve discovered a few things that I can’t live without in this new adventure.  Some of these things are things that I’ve used all along, just now with a better appreciation for them.  Some are things I never tried before and am wondering why I waited so long.  I know as I progress in my training, some things will be added to my list of essentials and everyone’s training essentials are different, but right now these are a few of mine.

A Plan
I’ve never trained with a plan and I learned the hard way that having a plan is better.  I ran my first marathon in February and although I did a couple long runs, I didn’t give it the dedication it deserved.  When I decided I wanted to run a 50K, I decided to get a running coach and am working with Jenn from Sole Health and Wellness.  Part of the coaching experience is having a plan—I have a calendar that tells me what mileage to run each day and what type of runs they should be.  It was hard to adjust from being a no-plan runner to running with one, but now I love it!  Yes, there are times that I deviate from my plan—I may run a little more or a little less on some days than scheduled, but by the end of my week, my weekly mileage is pretty consistent to what's been planned.  

Hydration
I used to be one of those runners who didn’t drink until they felt thirsty.  If you’ve ever done this, you know that by the time you feel thirsty it’s usually “too late.”  I’ve been working on hydrating before, during and after my runs to maintain a good level of hydration—over hydrating can be just as bad as under hydrating and I don’t want to do either.  The two things that have definitely helped with my hydration are my Orange Mud HydraQuiver and Nuun hydration.  My Orange Mud vest has two bottles which allows me to fill one with water and one with Nuun—my general rule is to take sips every mile or so.   Even as the weather has turned colder and it sometimes doesn’t feel like I need to hydrate as much, I still stick to this rule.  (I love my Orange Mud so much, I added a one barrel vest to my running wardrobe to use on my shorter runs when I don't need both bottles worth of hydration)

Compression Socks
If you follow me on social media, you know that I love my ProCompression socks.  As I am running more mileage, I am definitely noticing a difference.  I am not only training for my first 50K, but I am also on a Run Streak so I am running everyday.  My ProCompression socks are helping my legs feel less tired and definitely help the recovery process.  I wear them during my runs and after for recovery. And now that it’s boot season, I’m wearing them more with everyday wear too!  

The Right Shoes
As much as I love to feel the dirt beneath my feet, I knew that I needed the right pair of shoes between me and the dirt.  After doing some research (i.e. Asking my friends) I went to a local running store to try on some trail shoes—after trying on several pairs, I decided on the Altra Lone Peak 3.0 and it has been love from the first mile.  So far in my training, about half of it has been out on the trails and the shoes have been amazing.  There wasn’t a “breaking in” period—they were just the right shoe for me.  

The Elements
When you’re training for an event, the weather doesn’t turn to “perfect” for every run just because you want it to.  My little disclaimer is that I live in Southern California so the elements I need to be ready for are no where similar to what other runners run in.  (A big “You’re Awesome”  to everyone who runs in extreme weather!). But we have had a few weather changes lately and it’s definitely impacted what I wear when I’m running.  I’ve had to run in the rain a few times and am grateful for the rain jacket I randomly purchased a couple years ago.  It’s also been a lot colder lately and that’s been the biggest adjustments for this tank & skirt runner.  So I’ve added gloves, a Buff and arm warmers to my running wardrobe.  I’ve also added more trucker hats and sunglasses to my collection so that I can protect myself during my runs. My 50K is in April and in Southern California, you don’t know what you’re going to get in April weather-wise—I’m hoping to be prepared for anything.

My Friends
I love to run and though the journey is my own, it is definitely fun with other people along the way.  Honestly, not everyone in my life understands why I would want to run a 50K, but they support me anyway.  Whether it’s from going on runs with me or little messages of encouragement and support, I am blessed to have the people in my life that I do. 

What are some of the things you can’t live without when you’re training for a race?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

San Diego Holiday Half Recap

After I ran the San Diego Holiday Half Marathon last year, I thought it was a “one and done” race for me.  But two weeks before the race, I gave into my FOMO and registered.  It was the race I PRd at last year and thought maybe I could make that happen again for me.  

Though being called the Holiday Half, the race has been after Christmas the past few years.  This year it was moved up and happened before Christmas—I was excited about this because it was once more chance to wear my ProCompression Ugly Sweater socks.  I picked up my bib on Saturday, then went home and got  everything together.  I was meeting Smitha and Jen in the morning to carpool and didn’t want to be late.  

I woke up Sunday morning ready to run.  Last year I had parked at the start line and took the shuttle back at the end. This year, we were parking at the finish line and taking the shuttle to the start line-- such a better plan!  Once we arrived, we met up with others for pictures and catching up.  Last year it was freezing before the start—I don’t know if I was just better prepared this year or if it wasn't as cold, but it definitely felt better this year.  My plan was to start with Jenny who had a goal—I would try to keep up with her as long as I could and then run it from there.  I kept up with Jenny for about half a mile and then we did our own thing, but it was helpful.  I ran the race trying to catch up with her and find her pink hat—I never did but it gave me something to push towards.  

The course itself is boring in my opinion.  Much of the course is along a bike path that parallels the freeway—other than an occasional car honking their support, traffic is never fun to run by.  There are portions of it that are pretty and it’s fun to run by the horse ranch, but hold your breath because the smell isn’t pleasant.  There were plenty of aid stations on the course, but a few weren’t ready for the runners- we had to wait for them to pour water into the cups. Despite the lack of organization at some of the stations, I will say that every volunteer was super friendly and supportive—I loved this!  It was also fun to see all the people dressed up this year compared to last year’s race—I think because it fell before Christmas, people were more in the spirit.

As we ran on, I was trying not to look at my time because I am a mental runner and didn’t want to break my pace.  When I finally did, I realized I was on target to PR.  This was the motivation I needed and I pushed forward.  I finished with a five minute PR and a twelve minute course PR.  So as much as I don’t love this race, I love this race! 

I can’t say whether I’d do this race again or not.  There is definitely some opportunity in the race organization’s communication and use of social media—I certainly hope they improve on both of these things. I love that I get to see a lot of my friends at this race, so if any things brings me back, it will be that.

Have you ever run a race that you didn’t love? 

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1  

Ultra Training: Week Five

Week Five of my Ultra Training was definitely an eye opener for me.  I learned some lessons and I’m grateful that I’m still in the beginning stages of my training. 

I learned that I need to eat better—not only am I feeling it on the scale, but also on my runs.  I’ve been indulging since my Disney weekend and I need to get back to eating better.  I also learned that I need to add cross training and hill training more consistently on my schedule—as much as I run, I still feel out of shape.  It’s frustrating to know that you are capable of more, but can’t quite get there.  But the miles are done for week five and I know that with a few adjustments on my training outlook, the upcoming weeks of training are going to be awesome.
  
Sunday
Sunday called for a short run—I woke up later than I had wanted, but I was able to get my run in.  Sometimes the runs aren’t good or bad—they just are.  This was one of those runs, but the miles were done and that was ultimately what mattered.

Monday
It doesn’t rain often in Southern California so I was excited to wake up to rain.  And even more excited to run it in.  I headed out for a short run and of course it stop raining when I got to my running spot.  I chased the rain clouds for three miles and enjoyed the cooler weather.  

Tuesday
I decided to switch up some of mileage this week based on what my schedule had room for and made Tuesday a short run day.  It was a beautiful day for a run and the miles felt good.  After a few days of being sick, I was definitely glad to be feeling better.

Wednesday
I decided to hit up the trails for my run and it seemed like all of San Diego wanted to join me.  My favorite local mountain was so crowded!  I hiked up the main path for a bit before venturing off to the side trails.  Anytime I can run with the dirt beneath my feet, it’s a good run. I also met someone visiting from Arizona at the top of the mountain-- he was doing all five peaks during his visit.  Sometimes the best conversations are with strangers.

Thursday
I was signed up for a Turkey Trot on Thursday, but my training plan called for a 5K plus two miles.  I headed out to Coronado to run my two miles before the race—if you’ve never run in Coronado, it’s beautiful!  And to watch the sunrise during my run was breathtaking.  I also had a good run with the Turkey Trot. 

Friday
Last year, REI started the idea of #OptOutside so inside of shopping, I knew that I wanted to spend some time outside.  I had a short run schedule, so when my friend invited me to San Elijo Lagoon for a short adventure, I was ready.  I had never been there and I love exploring new running places.  The trails were really pretty but I hadn’t anticipated soft sand (like what you would find on the beach.). The soft sand definitely made the run more challenging, but the views made it worth it. 

Saturday
Saturday’s schedule called for a long run—12 miles.  I decided to join some local runners who were doing a 14 miles run—it was a couple miles than I had scheduled, but I knew I’d be taking some walk breaks so I thought it would all balance out.  The route my friend had selected was challenging for me—it had a lot of hills and though the weren’t steep, I wasn’t ready for the steady incline.  As much as I struggled, I was also glad because it was a good reminder that I need to add some hill work to my training plan.  I need to make sure to diversify my mileage. 

Total Weekly Miles: 35.26

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1

Coronado Turkey Trot Recap

Last Thanksgiving I ran my first turkey trot and I knew it was something I wanted to do again this year.  I am fortunate to live somewhere that offers several so after some research, I decided to run the Coronado Turkey Trot.  From my research, I could tell that it would be a small race but it was in Coronado so I knew it would be a pretty run and it benefited Rady Children’s Hospital which is a great benefactor of the race proceeds.

I woke up Thanksgiving morning with the plan of getting down to the race area early—although they had two pre-race packet pick-ups, I opted for race day pick-up.  The race is a 5K but I had a few more miles to get in on my training plan so I decided I would run them before the Turkey Trot.  Arriving early would also help with parking since the race had limited parking available.  

When I arrived to the park where the race was starting nothing was set-up yet.  Cars were still being unloaded and I saw no sign of a start or finish line.  I wasn’t too concerned because I was early and I had still had two miles to run before picking up my race packet.  After running my two miles, they were still setting up even though it was past the time packet pick-up was supposed to start.  This gave me time to go to my car for my Vega energizer and get a few stretches in.  Once they were ready, I headed over and got my race packet.  By this time, my friends running the race had shown up and we hung out until the race started.

By the time the race was ready to start, a start/finish line had been set up as well as the time mat.  But there were not other indicators of a race course.  They gave up the course directions during the pre-race announcements and then we were off.  (I was a little surprised that there was no National Anthem as I’ve become accustomed to this at most races.)

The race course was on the walkway on the Coronado bay front with water views the entire course.  I’ve run other races in Coronado and the beauty of the courses is definitely one of the perks.  It was a double out and back course and did get congested at a few spots, but most people we courteous to the runners.  Unfortunately the pathway wasn’t closed to the public so there were a few times where bicyclists were also on the course and made it even more congested.  At each turn around spot, they had someone directing us were to go but this was the only course support during the race.  Although in my training runs, I don’t carry water with me for any run less than five miles, I was a little surprised that there was not water on the course.  This is the first 5K I’ve done that didn’t have at least one water station.

Once we were finished and received our medal, we were directed to tables that had bottles of water and fruit for us.  It was “help yourself” style but I didn’t see anyone overtaking.  The apples they had were delicious and it was a nice to have this post race treat instead of the typical bananas.  (They had bananas too but the apple was definitely more refreshing.)  They were having a post race raffle, but you had to be present to win and I wasn’t hanging out that long after the race. 

This is the smallest race I’ve ever participated in.  At one point, someone said there were 800 people registered but it certainly didn’t look like there were that many people there.  There wasn’t a lot of extras, but the simplicity of it was nice.  We learned in the pre-race announcements that all the swag and “workers” had been donated/volunteered so all of the race monies went to Rady’s Children’s Hospital (aside from the active.com fees). It was nice to participate in a race where all the monies were going to the cause.  The views were spectacular and I had a good time, but I think this is a one-and-done race for me.  There are so many Turkey Trots to choose from where I live I’d live to experience a new one next year.

Did you Turkey Trot this year?  What’s the smallest race you’ve ever run?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

A Runner's Holiday Gift Guide

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!   Whether you’re shopping for someone who has been running a week or running a decade, here are some things that I think  would make great gifts for the runner in your life.

ProCompression Socks

Compression socks can help before a run, during a run or after a run so it makes sense that they are perfect for every type of runner.  My favorite are ProCompression—not only do they feel great, they come in a awesome selection of colors.  Check out this year's holiday sock—expected to be released on December 1st, you can save 40% off with the code GIFT16.  (If you want these, don’t wait—they sold out in hours last year!)

Photo Credit: www.procompression.com

Gift Cards

There are some things that a runner needs to pick out for themselves and one way for them to do that is with a gift card.  I suggest finding a local running store and getting one from there—not only would you be supporting small/local business, the person getting the gift card will get better customer service and expertise when they use the gift card. 

Race Entries

Let’s be real—for a “free” sport, running can be expensive and that includes race entries.  Do you have someone in your life who is dreaming of running a particular race?  Help make it happen.  Earlier this year, I received a race entry as a gift and it was the best surprise.  They contacted the race organizers, took care of the payment and I was good to go.  It also made the race mean something a little more—I wasn’t just running for myself, but also for my friends who gifted me the entry.    

Orange Mud Transition & Seat Wrap Towel

You’ve gone for a run, get back to you car, you’re sweaty and you want to change clothes.  The Orange Mud Transition & Seat Wrap towel lets you do both with ease.  After you change clothes without the fear of being seen, you can protect your car seat for your drive home.  It comes in several colors so there’s bound to be one that's your runner’s favorite.  

Photo Credit: www.orangemud.com

Music

Does the runner in your life like to listen to music when they run?  Get them gift cards to iTunes or subscriptions to the various running music apps that are out there like Rock My Run.  

Reusable Water Bottle

Runner’s don’t just need to hydrate when they run and I know for me I know that I hydrate more frequently when I have one of my reusable water bottles with me.  There are so many out there to choose from, but I’m loving the look of Hydro Flask’s “My Hydro.”  It’s the Hydro Flask bottles but it lets you customize them with your favorite color combination.   

Photo Credit: www.hydroflaskcom

Trucker Hats

I admit—I’ve become addicted to trucker hats.  Although I don’t always wear them during my runs, I love them for after my runs to hide my runner’s hair.  There are so many different ones to choose from that you really can’t go wrong. 
    

I love a good trucker hat!

Magazine Subscription

I get Runner’s World magazine every month and I will admit that when I first subscribed, I wasn’t sure if I would actually read it.  But I do—I’ve learned some great tips, been inspired and have found some great recipes in the magazine.  In a day when technology has made most magazines available online, I enjoy getting the actual magazine once a month.  

Subscription Box 

Last year one of my friends gifted me the Runner Box and I loved it.  Not only was it the gift that kept on giving (I received three boxes over a 6 month time period) it was a great way to try new products.  There are several different services and choices out there—I’ve tried Runner Box and Stride Box and loved them both!  

Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Running Fuel (Nuun, Honey Stinger and Glukos are a few of my favorites)
Anti-Chafe sticks (I use Glide)
KTTape (All the colors!)
Chapstick
Hair ties (I lose them everyday!)
RoadID (I love the bracelets)

One Last Idea

My final suggestion?  Offer to go for a run with them.  It doesn’t need to be long and it doesn’t need to be fast, but spending time with your family and friends is the best gift and it doesn’t cost a thing!

Happy shopping and until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1. 

Fit Foodie Run Recap

Last week I entered a contest hosted by local blogger Kate to win an entry to the Fit Foodie Run that was coming to San Diego-- this race had been on my race schedule radar, but due to other things going on that day, I was still on the fence.  Running the race would mean a very busy schedule for my Saturday so I decided to leave the decision up to the contest.  And guess what, I won!  Not only did I win an entry for myself, but also an entry for a friend.  (I had the option of either a 10K or a 5K and I went with the 5K)

#FlatJenn with a few of my favorite things

Once I registered, I found out that I knew several other people running this race.  We decided to meet prior to the race and run four miles to the start line area.  We made our way to the start line area and bib pickup.  Although there was race day pick up the day prior, I opted to get it that morning which seemed to be a popular decision.  After picking up our bibs, we had some picture taking fun and heading over to the start line.    

#SDMRTT

The start line was a little confusing and congested.  They were starting the race with the 4-7 minute mile runners, followed by the 10K runners which were followed by the rest of the 5K runners.  Once we got started and the crowd thinned out, it was a nice run.  The course is quite pretty and although there were a few spots it was congested, it was easy to navigate.  That being said, there is one thing that I did not like about this course-- they allowed pets!  I know that many people run with their dogs, but I am not sure how I feel about it in a race.  I feel as though it is a safety hazard for the runners as well as the dogs.  I actually kicked one dog as it suddenly stopped in front of me.    

I ran the race with Jenn and after we crossed the finish line, the real fun started,  We grabbed our medals and our swag bag then made our way over to the finishers village-- so many goodies.  From food samples, to cooking demos and other freebies it was awesome.  The highlight for me was seeing Bill Rogers and Meb Keflezighi--both we very generous in taking the time to chat with everyone who waiting to meet them and take pictures.   

Finish line selfie with Michelle-- it's our tradition!

After making our way through the booths Jenn and I found ourselves in the beer garden enjoying a Stella Cidre.  The rest of our group caught up with us and it was nice to spend some time with these awesome ladies. 

I had a great time at the Fit Foodie Run and will definitely be back next year.  They have a weekend of events and next year I want to participate in some of the activities.  It's well organized and a fun environment-- the energy can make or break a race and this was definitely a good time.  If they are coming to your city, I would definitely check it out.  

So many goodies!!

Have you participated in any of the Fit Foodie Run events?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

The Aloha Run Recap

When my running journey first began, the first run I ever signed up for was the Aloha Run.  Since then, I’ve run it every year—since it’s my anniversary race, it holds a special place in my heart.  

Photo credi: www.thealoharun.com

To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I was going to run it this year.  I had some things going on in my life and running a 5K wasn’t a priority.  But the Tuesday before, I decided I would regret not running it and signed up.  When you register you have the option for running untimed at a lower cost and I went with this option.  I was going to run for fun and would be wearing my Garmin so that was good enough for me.

The Aloha Run offers race day bib pick-up so I headed down to Mission Bay early on race morning.  The past years I’ve run this race, it has taken place in September and was extremely hot.  This year the race was moved to October and I was hoping this would mean cooler weather.  When I showed up for bib pick-up, it was actually a bit cold.  I was lucky to find parking close so I wore my jacket until it was almost race time.  

The race also featured a 10K this year that started at 7:30am with the 5K starting at 7:45am.    The start line area changed this year, a change that I was glad to see.  It moved from a grassy hill area to a paved pathway, which was also the finish line area.  The pre-race entertainment was fun and they did a good job of announcing the start of the 10K and making sure the right runners lined up.  After the 10K runners were off, it was time for the 5K.
  
This race is “self coral” but it seemed everyone was doing a pretty good job of placing themselves.  They announced that fast runners should move to the front and I knew that wasn’t me.  I also knew from past experiences with the race, it gets congested at the beginning and can be hard to move through, so I placed myself behind the “speedy” runners.  I didn’t have a race plan, but I did want to go out faster at first to get away from the runner congestion.

Race Swag!

My plan was to run this race for fun- I was running more for the memory than running for time. I went out fast like I had planned and kept going.  I could feel that I was pushing myself, but felt good enough to keep going.  The race follows the pathway along Mission Bay so it’s a pretty view.  They also great course entertainment, from Island themed dancing and music and others cheering you on.  It’s an out and back course and that’s my only “complaint.”  The path way is narrow and once you’re coming back, it’s sometimes hard to pass people because there are runners on both sides.  While most runners will move aside to let you pass, some groups still ran 2-3 people wide and there were a few times I had to either stop or move on to the grass near the pathway.  

The weather was beautiful (Yay!) and even though I knew I was pushing myself, I felt good for most of the race.  When I reached the turn around point, I looked at my Garmin and realized that I might get a PR.  (I’ve been chasing my 5K PR since March 2014 and was competing with a PR from a course that has a ¾ mile downhill finish, so it felt like I might not ever beat it). Because I thought I might be able to get a PR, I decided to push myself as hard as I could.  And it worked—I took almost two minutes off my time from March 2014.  (On the downside, since I was frugal and opted out of a timing chip, I’ll need to do this again to make it race official, but now I know I’m capable of it.)

The Aloha Run has a fun post race area with music and plenty of vendors giving away goodies.  This is a family friendly event and I love seeing all the families dressed up in their aloha gear.  I think next near I might run the 10K but I’ll definitely be back to the Aloha Run.

My PR had my jumping for joy!

What’s your anniversary race?

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn13.1

Crown City Classic Recap

The 4th of July has always been one of my favorite holidays so when I had the opportunity to run the Crown City Classic on the 4th, I was excited. (I received the race entry in exchange for volunteering at the packet pick-up) 

After Flat Jenn was put together, I attempted to go to bed early. The race didn't start until 7:00am, but it was suggested we get there early for parking. The race takes place in the beautiful city of Coronado, which happens to be a beach city. Beaches and the 4th of July means a lot of people, so my plan was to be there by 5:00am. I did end up arriving around 5:00am and found parking right away. (However by 5:20am, the lot was full so I was glad I arrived early) 

Time passed quickly and at 6:30am, I headed over to the start line area for the pre-race warmup. It was an exercise routine with a fun host and great music. After that was done, we headed to the corral area. The corrals were self placement and were labeled "Fast, Fit or Fun." I tend to be a mid pack runner so I placed myself in the middle of the "Fit" group. The race had two distances- a 12K starting at 7:00am which had approximately 1,000 runners 
and a 5K starting at 7:10am which had approximately 1,200 runners.  I opted for the 12K- it would be my first 12K race so automatic PR and how fun to run 7.4 miles on July 4th! 

At the start line, they had a large flag on display. Before the start, volunteers held up the flag and a moment of silence was had as the names of all the fallen soldiers since last 4th of July were read. Truth be told, I had goosebumps and tears. After this, a beautiful redention of the national anthem was sung. After a quick motivational speech from the race director, we were off and running. You run under the flag at the start, which was another neat experience in this race. 

The race website stated that this year's course was new. It was my first time doing this race, so I have nothing to compare it to, but overall I enjoyed the course. It's an out and back course which I enjoy more than point A to point B coursees.  There were a few areas that ran past parks/beaches and because the crowds were already out for the holiday, the extra crowd support was fun. You also run thought residential areas and I loved seeing the houses decorated for the holiday. It's a flat course and definitely a PR course. There was one portion of a course that was narrow which made it hard to pass other runners, but overall the course had ample room. I didn't have a goal going into the run, so I put myself near the 10 minute mile pacers.  I felt strong and at one point, I passed the pacers. When I looked at my Garmin at mile 4, I realized I was on target to PR my 10K time, so I kept pushing. (I ending up PRIng my 10K time by 1 minute and 20 seconds). Before I knew it, I was crossing the finish line and getting my medal.  I finished with a 9:32 average mile which is a big deal for me- it's my first race over a 5K where every mile was under 10 minutes. Thought there were no negative splits, I'll take it! 

This race was well organized. The packet pick-up was easy, both pre-race and race day. Everything was setup and ready to go early (how many times have you shown up for z race and they're still setting up?!) The course was beautiful. The volunteers were awesome! There were plenty of water stations in the course (2 for the 5K and 4 for the 12K) The post race nutrition was on point and we even got a reusable bag for our goodies.  

Overall, I really enjoyed this race. I've already convinced a few of my friends to run it with me next year.