Run Katie, Run

25 Days until I'm at the starting line of the Dublin Half Marathon and well, my training is...um how should I say it? Not quite on track? I actually moved my body 5 miles today. It wasn't a run. It wasn't a jog. It wasn't a walk. It was more of a "jowalk" that felt like a waddle. You know, one of those outings where you're fighting with your brain to "just keep running to that next tree" yet somehow your body pulls the emergency brake and you've stopped to a walk and not sure how it's happened? Yeah. One of those days.

After my 3rd or maybe 4th stop during the first 2 miles I figured it was time to start reminding myself just why I was out there in the heat, drenched in sweat, still shuffling my feet forward, talking to myself because that's what happens when I'm out there solo.

I run...

...for new shoes & clothes.
...to register for races that require travel.
...because it's better for me than a pint of ice cream after a crappy day.
...for the bling.
...because the sound of my footsteps with my heart racing is better than any beat found on    my iPod. (The only exception may be "Evacuate the Dance Floor" remixed.)
...to turn heads. As in the "who is that girl?" kind, but I'll take the "is she crazy?" ones as well.
...for the stress release.
...because I live above a pizza shop that's open 6 days a week, until late.
...to keep Stanley happy.
...for that fabulous shower afterwards.
...because sitting at a desk for 8 hours a day in a windowless building is depressing.
...to make my fat cells cry.
...for that sense of accomplishment when that last mile marker beeps on my watch.
...to feel the sunshine and breathe the fresh air.
...because one day I won't be able to.
...for me.

Paris: Running for the 3B's

Bling*Beer*Burger*Bling*Beer*Burger*Bling*Beer*Burger*Bling*Beer*Burger*Bling*Beer*Burger

26.2 miles is a long distance, but nothing compared to 42.1 kilometers.

Okay, maybe it one of those dirty little tricks, but let me tell you- when you hit the 20+ mile mark? You don’t care what it takes. You're thankful for the km markers that appear way more frequently.

Who am I kidding?

Based on the sample size of 2 marathons, even the relief you feel with every passing distance marker, miles 16-21 are just plain miserable. These miles are the ones having you questioning everything. The miles that your body quadruples in weight. The miles that seem impossible to complete step by step.

Just ask Lori. Some of my more memorable exchanges with her in these miles were as follows:

"Go. Leave me. I'm done."
"Who's idea was this?"
"...but I don't wanna."

Best part? We passed other partners having the same "fights" with each other. Our relationship is normal!

Once the legs went numb and we were determined to stop for nothing until the finish line, we formulated our running mantra- The 3 B's: Bling, Beer, Burger. The order is crucial. No bling means we didn't finish the race and although one can consume beer and a burger without running, they taste 100% times better with new race bling hanging around your neck. Fact.

It's fine if you don't believe me. Lori does. She's also the one that at mile marker 23 makes me believe that it's just another 5K and we can do those in our sleep.

That 5K?  It's a blur except for knowing that we weren't stopping- not even for clowns with candy and wine & that at one point I sped up while listening to Proud Mary being sang by band along the road side.

Step by step. Aches increasing. Legs like lead.

WE DID IT.

Not quite in 4 hours like Oprah claims to have done, but all that insane training we did over the past 4 months paid off and resulted in a personal record of 5 hours, 10 minutes, and 37 seconds. Now that's still a ton of running, but about 25 minutes less than it took us to complete Rome last year.

Paris was fabulous. Cold to the point of we though we'd freeze to death on race day, however as we left the hostel race morning we saw blue sky and the sun rising in the sky! Temps never got that warm, but the sun was out and the wind was light- fabulous running weather.

The course? Cobble stones only at the food/water/aide stations which made for a very slippery mess (think discarded orange peels, bananas, and water) but we always walk through those anyways. When I wanted to walk (which yes, happens a lot) there always seemed to be a slight down hill to prolong my motivation. The city was out there to support us: bands, drums, dancers, kids with Oreo cookies, clowns with wine and hands stuck out along the side awaiting a high 5 and so many variations of "Katie" being said it was challenging to lose heart and just stop even when it hurt.

And believe me...it did hurt a few times, but somehow the promise of bling, beer, and a burger with your running partner pushes that all the back of your mind.

Next marathon? Well, don't be talking crazy talk just yet. You know the rule- "One or both of us must be sober when deciding to enter a race."

Pre Race Jitters

My last few trips have been rather nerve racking. Various reasons, however,  mainly last minute planning and running around to get "everything" done before the early departure.

This one is no exception. It's actually worse.

I'm super excited to see Paris. Thrilled to spend time with my "Italian Parents" and my friend who is there. I've even mapped out the majority of our trip since it's a new city and I need to trek all over it. Yes, I realize that's a little crazy considering I'll be running 26.2 miles before too long in/around it.

But that's just it.

I start thinking about running and my heart starts fluttering and pounding in my chest. Worse than it ever did when we did our training.

Coworkers have been inquiring about it all week. They've been offering their encouragement and support. And I love it. I mean, even after 4 months of hearing how I was training for this sucker this is the week I appreciate it the most. But again, every time the "r(unning)" or "m(arathon)" words come up- same result. I feel like my heart is going to leap right out of my chest.

Some nerves are good right? They're what's going to keep me warm in the chilly air before the race starts. They're going to invite my friend adrenaline when we cross the starting line and go insane until my brain kicks in and tells Ms. Speed Racer that it doesn't matter how fast we run miles 1-3 in when there are 26.2 to be ran.

Slow down heart, it's not race day yet. 

Once this last minute push to get the cat to the "spa", my gear packed up, touristy things finalized I'm hoping that the travel and beauty of the city distracts me from my one track mind this week.  Alright. One step in front of the other. I've got this. I mean, I've done it before...

Yep. It's official. I've gone crazy.

Some how, I don't think this is how Stanley imagined we'd be spending out 3 year anniversary together. Seriously. Race day is my 3 year mark post surgery and when Stanley became part of my life (as the new ACL in my right knee).

Let this be your annual reminder to seriously consider being an organ and tissue donor. Donating blood and plasma are easy to give too...when you aren't having surgeries, traveling to Africa, or live in Europe too long.

Okay, I've got a suitcase to pack...next stop Paris!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the...

TRAINING SCHEDULE!

Kicking and screaming pretty much sums up phase 2:

I didn't give it all my effort.

There are some days I wanted to be even more congested, feverish, or exhausted than I was just to skip the workout.

The days I wasn't looking for a health issue, I may have been praying for the next deluge. May have been...and you'll never know since our roads out here look like streams rather than roads.

...but we're done with the hard stuff and moving into taper phase! Yippe! Of course I'm having some anxiety that come race day my lack of dedication during training may cause some issues, I'm trying to just keep focused on the fact that in 20 days I'll be done with this race.

Running and I have always had a love hate relationship, but over the last month it's been all hate from me. Hopefully once the stress of getting a PR on marathon #2 is gone, my relationship with the open road and my favorite shoes can be stronger...until I inevitably find another 26.2miles I feel the need to run and which point I'm sure I'll go through this same roller coaster again.

Why?

It's all about the bling.

And We're Back....Kindda

Weeks 9-12 of training have been, well, not very inspiring, thus the lack of updates.

Injuries.
Illness.
Nasty weather.

Lots of other excuses as well, but I'm not even going to list them here because at the end of the day they were just that- excuses. This weekend we finally got to the point that although we finished a few miles short of our goal, for the first time in weeks we knew we could have gone the extra miles if we hadn't been tempted by a ride.

Yeah, a ride.

Running several miles with cramping legs and a blister larger than a 2E coin on my foot, I had no shame taking them up on the offer. Speed Racer was still rather speedy, but didn't want to destroy us for the rest of the week...

So. What's the change?

Maybe it was the sunny weather?
Or maybe it was the support of those we passed? Our fan club was out there in epic numbers...so much so that we started counting their support. I think 21 acknowlegements as our final count? That of course is excluding honking car horns because we're never sure if they're for us, the "working lady" we're running past, or just because there is an Italian behind the wheel of the passing car.

Whatever it is...we need to take this momentum and go with it. 7 April is race day and we need to be ready! I mean, this is our last marathon (for the forseeable future) after all.

Remind Me?

Week #9 of training has been delayed- why? Well, it was no fun. In fact, it was downright painful and even a few days into Week #10, it has me questioning my sanity and also my will to carry on with training.

[X] Endurance Phase

en·dur·ance noun [en-doo r-uh ns]

1: permanence, duration <the endurance of the play's importance>

2: the ability to withstand hardship or adversity; especially : the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity <a marathon runner's endurance>

3: the act or an instance of enduring or suffering <endurance of many hardships>

No wonder I'm so happy to see that today was our last day in the endurance phase of our training program! Leave it to me to actually look up the formal definition of the word once our 10 mile run was complete. And yes, I completely understand definition 2.

Endurance is definitely a good way to sum up this week of training. First of all, I'd like to brag that it's probably the first week since week 1 (7 weeks ago) that I actually did all the trainings on the scheduled day and in the time allotted.  Second, with the reinstatement of the civilian wellness program at the office I've been using my 3 hours a week to sneak in a double workout if possible with the training schedule. As a result? My body is beginning to feel the impact of training, both the good (no carb needs to be left behind just yet) and the bad (ice packs are my best friend).  

Over all training is still on track. It's amazing to see the progress over the short 8 weeks we've been training. 

Last week our 16 x 400m sprints sounded like TORTURE, but this week? I actually tried to convince Lori we were 2 short because it just seemed too easy, but some simple math proved otherwise..although we were both ready to do 2 more just because we could. 

Today's 10 miler? Well, after last week's 17 (shudder) we felt like we were dragging, especially running into insane wind, but yet we were still running way faster than our pace should have been. 

Oops. Hey, I earned my SB name and didn't just dub her Speed Racer for anything. 

Of course these nicknames are going to be majorly tested this next week as we move into the Stamina Phase and we leave our my favorite sprint night for runs at an 8:40/mile pace. Uh hu. Let's just say my new mantra of PR or ER  is going to be alternated with Oprah did this so I can too. Oh and the fact that next Saturday I get to spend 4 hours running? *Sigh* Piano, piano. I've done this before and I can do it again. 

And yes, you did see that I registered for 2 half marathons over the summer this week. 

[X] Week 6

In summary, week 6 was filled with pain, nausea, and a tad more pain. Do I sound like I'm complaining about our 4 mths to a 4 hour marathon training program? I'm just relaying the messages that my muscles are sending my brain.

Moving our long run to Sunday from week 5 wasn't the smartest idea but we had to do it. This of course had us moving a short run off the schedule for a rest day. We sure needed that rest! When it was all said and done this week, I got 2 days of cross training in, sprints, and the long run...so minus the 30 & 40 minute runs (2). I'm okay with this since since sprints nearly had me feet up in the air on the side of the road and it was only a 6 x 400m week!

Oh well. Today's 8 miler went well. Nothing but sunshine and nature as we ran the most creative route through Carney Park. Mile 6ish made me regret throwing the first pair of socks I found on my feet, even when I knew they weren't running socks. Let's just say that as soon as my watched beeped for mile 8 that shoe was off my foot so fast I don't even think Lori knew what had happened.

Week 7 is going to be even more interesting as illnesses ware on, knees and hips are reminded just how holiday pounds impact the force exerted on them, and travel plans start mucking up the training schedule. 15 miles is the long run we've got in store for our holiday weekend...or you know Thursday after work.

Yep.

Now you all think we're insane...don't you? It's true, we are but with all these endorphins racing throughout or bodies and the promise of Paris in spring we're powering full speed ahead...or you know on Saturdays at our 10:40 max pace!

Week #5 Complete!

There once was a time when "it's just a half" really captured our thoughts on running a mere 13.1 miles.

Those days are gone.

Today, we ran 13 miles and in doing so completed week #5 of training.

Of course now we're both walking like we're a million and two. The fact that we have to run again tomorrow makes me want to cry. The ice packs are being reached for from their hiding places in our freezers. And really, what was I thinking packing boots with heels to wear the rest of my day?

Coworkers following our training looked at us half amazed, a quarter skeptical, and the rest "you be crazy" when we responded how many miles this weekend held for us. You do realize that's a half marathon- right? Actually, no, it's not. We're skipping that miserable 0.1 miles at the end.

We didn't skip the miserable 4.5 miles at the end though. Fellow runners/joggers/waddlers I know you get it- some days being out there feels great and other days, it feels like death. I don't think I need to tell you how today's run gets filed.

Bottom line though? We did it. Not quite without stopping, but on my honor I only stopped a few times and for water or to tell Stanley he was doing great. Actually, my body stopped without me even realizing it once, so I figured it was as good a time as any to power walk for a little.

Alright- week six starts tomorrow. We've got this. 

Week 2: Completed!

I, Sea Biscuit (SB) would like to announce to the known world that Speed Racer (SR) and I have completed week two of seventeen long weeks of training on our path to a 4 hour Paris Marathon time.

You did read that right- I said 4 hours. Why 4 hours? Well, most simply, if Oprah could do it, so can we. And yes, I did fess up to my SB nickname dubbed many years back in Monterey (some days I just miss my GWB and OG so much that if I refer to myself as SB to take me back to those times).

Week 2, that's right- we did move on to the next week, ended with a 9 mile run. Or you know, a 10K that had a 5K tacked on to it. All of our runs were outside this week in fabulously cool weather and our marathon day leggings made their debuts. For those that saw us, well, you really couldn't miss us with our purple and pink neon-ish awesome pants---right?

So far we're still on track and even though one of our cross training days rendered us near useless for lifting anything more than 5lbs the next day, our bodies are actually being good sports about being beaten back into submission.

The biggest challenge so far?

Actually staying in our 10:40 to 11:10 pace per mile. Do you have any idea just how slow a 10:40 mile is? SR asked at one point if we were supposed to be speed walking instead of running today. Hmm. I just realized that she may not appreciate being called S-R, so back to Speed Racer it is.

At any rate, week 2 of training is D-O-N-E and I'm ready for a shower, snack, and nap.

Paris Marathon Week 1A

Well, we did it! Week 1A of training is complete towards our next marathon: Paris in April 2013!

Why 1A? Well, we were so eager to start training again that we started a week early to either repeat a week mid training (to accommodate a 1/2 marathon) or have a mulligan week.

We called MULLIGAN loud and clear and officially kicked off this past week. Best part about our re-do? The workouts were so much easier! Sprints? No big deal. Timed runs? We covered more distance. Long run? Actually completed. And that's impressive considering it's been months (like our last race) since either of us had ran over 5 miles and we did 7 at a decent clip. 

Yay us! Yay for 16 more weeks of training until the main event :)

I Am A Warrior

When I first discovered that I could run and finally admitted to myself that it was sort of fun...I started to do searches for local races. I'd do searches for 10Ks or shorter, but really would only check out the 5Ks. It was at this time I discovered the world of mud runs and the Warrior Dash. More than a tad intimidated by the 13 obstacles including jumping fire pits, scaling walls, mud pits, and balance beams I opted to register for the Big Sur Half Marathon instead but promised myself that I'd be running this Warrior Dash hopefully within the next year. (I realize the logic makes no sense on this one but knowing how I operates does this surprise any of you?)

I trained and got through that half but was hurting bad afterwards so I took a long recovery period. During this time I registered for the local mud run because I figured I should probably train for something like the Warrior Dash. Well, before training started I spent that fateful New Years in Tahoe and we know how that turned out...

Fast forward 3 years into my running relationship...through the ACL injury, through the move to Italy, to a day I was sitting at my computer thinking hey, I wonder what races are taking place while I'm at home and did a search. The original plan was to run the Pumpkin 10K in Half Moon Bay the day after I arrived. You know, all jet lagged and yes, registering any available family members for it as well. But, as so often the case with me I was debating back and forth and I didn't know which race to schedule my return flight round. Turns out this procrastination is just what I needed because the next morning I had an email announcing that the Northern California Warrior Dash event was taking place not only not too far from the house BUT while I was home! My poor office; I think everyone knew how excited I was about this discovery. 

After being unsuccessful on getting my brother to also register I decided that I had to jump on this chance and shell out the big time bucks with my late registration. Did I do any special training? No. I was still training for the Lisbon half- so I was good with running and mud? Doesn't require much additional skill. All those obstacles? Not nearly as intimidating now that I'm a little more comfortable with my running ability.

Race day came around and I threw on my normal "mud gear" and as we headed out to the event the panic started. Katie, you've ran 8 miles over 3 days in the past 2 weeks. Mud means slippery stuff, Stanley may have something to say about that. You have t-rex arms and I'm pretty sure you'll have to be climbing walls. Of course this was all in my head because I pretty much go radio silent before a race. Walking into the event area was insane- muddy people, people in costumes, people in various states of being dressed, beer, lots of beer, music blasting, flames in the air, and English. Lots of English.

Before too long my wave was off and running. And running we did for the first mile or so along a dusty path. As people complained about the dust I laughed thinking that maybe my running in Naples was helping me prep for this air quality as I starting passing people.

First mud pit was a riot. You could tell some began to rethink registering. Making my way up and through the pools in my path I was thankful for my late start so lots of foot holds had already been made. With a water station strategically placed there, so many people stopped to wash their hands and wring out clothing. Um really? We're just getting started people. No, I didn't stop and jogged on past the people complaining about heavy feet.

A serious hill and a tunnel later I came to the first wall. Eek. Thank goodness for foot holds and my legs. That's all I've got to say. Here's the course map. I figure that's way easier to show you and plus it shows you what I knew about this race when I was registering.

Hands down my favorite were the cargo nets. People are silly trying to go up the middle of them. Why work so hard with a wobbly ladder when you can use the rope near the edge? Oh well, thanks for keeping those parts mostly clear for me. The balance beams were great too- until I had to wait for someone to dismount.

The barbed wire one was rather entertaining too- mainly because I'd see bits of tutu tulle snagged on the barbed wire. (Good thing there won't be any along the Paris course when I plan on debuting my race tutu!)

Although I may have recorded my slowest 5K time ever it was a blast and I actually finished it faster than I thought I would. And when I saw that I finished 963 out of 7482 I realized that I really miss events in the United States. Granted this really is more of a fun event and not a "true race", but it was a nice break from the really competitive racing in Italy, although you know I was still racing with people along this course that didn't know we were racing.

Lisbon Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon

Woohooo! 2:14:11. I'm going to barf. Keep moving. You can't puke in public.

There's the clock...that arch is the correct one...sprint, you have it in you. FASTER. You promised Lori you'd make her proud. Well, that was stupid...but you said you would...make it happen.

Keep going, it's all over in just a few more meters.

Oh Crap. Cobblestones...I just may roll after all.

Less than 2 minutes to find that finish line...is it that arch in the distance?

Okay, when you have to you can do a quarter mile in less than 2 minutes. True it's not after you've ran 10+ miles...but what if lions are chasing you?

For those of you who have never ran a 1/2 marathon, well those were some of the thoughts going through my head in reverse order the last few miles. And no, I didn't puke over Lisbon...but that does seem to be my body's way to tell me it's had enough. (Not really a selling point I guess when it comes to finding new recruits to train with.)

At mile 10.23, I was turned loose by my fabulous running partner because she knew I'd be grumpy if I didn't get a new personal record (PR). After a minute or so of pleading her to stay with me I realized she was right and took off after Wonder Woman. I mean, sounds like a great first person to choose to pick off-right?

The miles up to #10 were alright. The course was mostly paved and relatively flat, but the sunny sky and 26C temp threw in a challenge. The start out on the Vasco da Gama Bridge with a whole lot of others made for a slow start. How slow? Check out this picture that most likely was taken prior to the start of the race, but even once the race started the helicopter overhead indicated blocked paths. I often tease about full combat running...well I had a flash back to my water polo days as I ran though any opening with my elbows jabbing the arms and sides of those trying to get in my way.

Why the helicopter? Apparently this race was being televised! Did you catch it? If so you may have seen my full combat running method.

Walking to the front of the 10K-ers we found that a lot of people were lined up and ready to go. Lots. It was sort of nice knowing that unlike our local races we'd be among the last to cross that finish line...assuming there was still some sort of indication of the finish line when we crossed.

Prior to be dropping off on the bridge, we had a fabulous bus ride out to the drop off point. We called it the arm work out...you know, 20+ minutes of standing on the bus, holding onto the overhead bar for dear life with each turn we took.

The morning started off just about like any race day, woke up, showered, spent too many minutes pinning the race bib on my shirt because I refuse to ask for help. Ever. We took off to the starting point with what felt like everyone in Lisbon. The only difference was they were all wearing their race shirts. Um. Is that something that only us Americans don't do? I don't know how you can wear the shirt until you've ran the race! At any rate, it was pretty easy to pick out the other Americans and/or experienced runners. Once off the metro, we made a dash for coffee, because as Michael so eloquently put it- "because a morning without coffee is simply uncivilized." Then again he's seen the coffee-less Katie so maybe he was just trying to avoid a repeat performance?

At any rate, I'm pretty impressed with this Rock 'N Roll event. Stations were well stocked. Course was well marked. The expo was small (and no face cut outs for pictures!), but we had no issue getting our packets. The bling goes great with my collection. The results and photos were posted by the time I was home the next day. All in all, it was well set up. Am I going back next year? No. I've got other races to run...like Dublin in August! Who else in LPN is going to join me? 

10 Weeks Gone?

10 weeks ago, Lori my running partner, and friend started our latest training program. The goal? To get under a 2:15:00 finish time at the Lisbon Portugal Rock N Roll Half Marathon.

At the start, we both were trying to convince our bodies that the Rome Marathon was 4 months ago and that it was okay to start running again. The deformed toenails, calloused feet, and crackling knees sure put up a fight in the beginning.

But we didn't listen. Why would we?

We pressed on day after day of 100+ degree heat. As the miles started to stack up, our average pace started to decrease. Sprint days at the track turned into adventures in the African plains, because well, I think I was delusional from all the heat. Hey, all I need to do is say "Nala" now and she starts sprinting. Our strength training days turned into "let's beat up our bodies" because t-rex arms don't look good on anyone!

In the weeks leading up to this weekend, we've been collecting information for what works for us. Why? Well it's fun to figure out what really motivates you when you're still 2 miles out and wanting to pull up a seat at the coffee bar while you wait for Lori to go grab the car. It's fun to taste new flavors of Gu. Actually, that's a lie. It is fun though to get new running shoes because you've put so many miles on your other pairs they shouldn't go any further.

So, tonight was our last official run before the race on Sunday. It went something like this:

Katie: Did I really say 3 miles?
Lori: Yep. I'm starving and a beer sounds great.
Katie: I ate candy all day, but with peanut butter so that's protein- right?
Lori: I'm starving.
Katie: My toe still feels broken, but this is only 3 miles right?
Lori: Yep. 3 miles and it's great weather to run.

Now we're both changed and ready to go. So we start walking.

Katie: Eventually we need to start running.
Lori: You mean this doesn't count towards our 3 miles?
Katie: Nope.

5 minutes later we're running and as we turn the corner the high school track (?) teams are getting ready to run back over towards the school.

Katie: Today we are simulating race day conditions...
Lori: Oh no we're not! It's a slow day- remember?! Don't get that crazy look in your eye.
Katie: C'on. You know I hate people in front of me...

Lori made the move to pass them first. Go Speed Racer Go!  And no, I didn't switch to full combat running mode.

Like normal, mile 1 sucked but 2 and 3 rocked. Well, I think they did? Today was one of those I'm totally zoned out runs where the rhythm of my feet against the street was only interrupted a few times by either a beep (mile completed) or telling Lori where our route was taking us next. Not Lady Gaga, not Pink, not even Cascade were invited on this run. Seriously. When was the last time you ran without you iPod? It's becoming a habit of mine to leave it behind. The first week was horrible but now I crave the pondering time. I sometimes even think of answers to mysteries I forgot I had! And if you are carrying a conversation? It's amazing on all the nonsense stuff gets left out when you only have time to get 5 words out before needing another gulp of air.

So yeah, this training program is complete. Hands down it's been the most fun I've had training for something in a while. Granted it was a lot shorter than the prep for Rome, but running our longest run (10 miles) this past weekend I was ready to tack on that 5K!

Mud Run: 2012

Some days it feels like I just got here. Other days it seems like I've been here too long and it's time to hit a Target immediately. Days like today though, make me realize that I've been here over a year and in that time I've carved a niche out for myself.

Last year on the day of the mud run I had just moved into my castle, was Nico-less, and still knew very few people. This year's edition? Um, well my house may still look like I just moved in at times, but the Nico fur helps with that...but I knew a ton of people at the race! I even had friends and coworkers join me this time around for the 5K event.


Pre-race photoshoot

The course was tougher than last year, but with all that running Lori makes me do, our time was an improvement on last year even with the increased numbers of obstacles like climbing a wall, tires, and sandbags trying to knock us out. Note to self: don't play video games the night prior that required throwing punches because you need your arms for the belly crawl! 

The course & all its challenges

So once we were done with the race (and not too muddy) it was time to get muddy and have some fun! Or you know, running partners- and friends need some therapy after all those miles in heat and if that's not enough...wall climbs are not easy for those of us with t-rex arms!

Post race fun in the mud

Arienzo 5K

This week's running adventure lead us to a little town named Arienzo for a 5K/10K event. After the recent Vesuvio trail run, we were a little weary, but those fears were pushed the back of my mind as we drove through the back roads with fields and well kept neighborhoods going by our windows. No trash filled the shoulders of the road either! And no, I'm not the only one who notices this stuff because it wasn't too long before all the passengers in the car were commenting on it.

When we arrived, our group of Americans was good in size, large enough for us to win the club prize, and we stood around while registration was completed. It was during this time that 6 piece marching band started to play along the starting area. It took us no time to realize that one of the trumpet players was holding his instrument with one hand and in his other hand a cigarette was waiting for a break in his part. And that is just what happened! As soon as he could, he moved the trumpet down, and lifted the cigarette to his mouth instead.

Closer to the event start, a priest took the stage for prayer and maybe even a quick scripture reading with commentary. It was pretty interesting to see this group of runners, primarily males in their 40-60 in their way too much spandex outfits pausing to cross themselves and recite the Lord's prayer before a race. The priest wasn't done until he splashed holy water over the crowd. Yep. Only in Italy!

The race course was along the roads of town and then some gravel paths. There were hills, but for the most part they were  short and steep, so although I had to break my "run like the Italians ie no walking, just run slower than walking would be plan" I was able to power up one of them. Of course by this time the "cool" of the morning was long gone and the sun was full strength on us racing along these roads.

Although the 10K-ers moved on ahead after the first turn (it happens when you purposely start yourself in the back of the pack), it was alright because this hands down was the best marked path I've seen. Well, for most of us. Turns out one of my coworkers found a "short cut" that lead her back to the finish line about .2 miles before she was supposed to arrive there. Water stations were stocked and ready to give us water after those killer hills (even before the first mile). Roads really didn't need to be blocked from traffic because of how they organized the course and also, I'm pretty sure that all community members were either running with us, volunteering, or had already walked to the town's church for Sunday mass.

Lori-less and iPod-less on this race, I was forced to listen to my feet crunching the gravel and my lungs not so efficiently taking in oxygen. But you know what? I'm actually learning to like running without the added noise. But don't get me wrong, with Evacuate the Dance Floor or MMMBop remixed streaming through my ears my step is always faster. Well, unless I decide to take a dance break...then no guarentees.

Pretty much from the get-go there was another female ahead of me, so I just stayed a few yards back from her. My grand plan was to beat her at the final stretch...but I guess she also pounds out the last portion of course. I almost got her, but almost doesn't count when she crossed first. I got 3rd and she got 2nd. So although I'm frustrated that a few more quick steps would have moved me up...I placed! Yes, there were more than 3 females running the 5K. (Please don't ask me how many more though!) And you know what? My time wasn't half bad considering the hills so that was more encouraging than anything else as it marked the end of week #1 of training for the Lisbon 1/2 Marathon.

So, my prize for placing? A crate of food: plums,  pasta, canned tomatoes. Lots. I think this is Italy's way of telling me that after 3 years of living here I will like pasta.

9K: Vesuvio Trail Run

Since the Rome Marathon back in March, running and I have been in an on again, off again relationship. Recently Lori and I decided to move forward with some of our running goals and started to map out our next few months of events and training. Well...that's the outcome. It really went something like:

Katie: Oh look! Registration is still open for the Rock 'n Roll Lisbon event at the end of September. You know, that's one I was looking into early this year and it gives us more time to train than Prague or Budapest...

Lori: Okay, well let's pick a few and cost them out.

Katie: Sounds like a plan. Oh! Check it out...the Madrid marathon is on my 30th. We can totally run 2 marathons in a 3 weeks time frame right? I mean, we're going to train a lot smarter this time.

Lori: April?

Katie: Oh and the Dublin half in next August so put that on your schedule too.

Lori: You're crazy.

Katie: What are you doing this weekend?

Lori: I don't know.

Katie: Want to do the Vesuvio Trail run with LPN? 9K. No time limit, let's hike it.

Lori: Sure.
- - - - -
Once we were committed, I was able to convince 2 additional unsuspecting individuals. But hey- I just saw trail run on Vesuvio so I wasn't expected a walk in the park, but I was also planning to hike it rather than run it. Two hours, no problem.

So this morning a small group of us LPN folks headed to the starting line. With the pack quickly escaping in front of us, our small group of hikers pressed on. The tree cover was nice, but still didn't negate the gravel/sandy path on the incline. Within the first few kilometers our group dropped in numbers as the incline increased significantly, but the volunteer chosen to bring up the last of us (TO make sure we didn't get lost out in the wilderness!) was patient with our stopping to catch our breaths or take a swig of water. Gianni was his name and he was continually reminding us piano piano, and telling us how many more kilometers until the incline was done.

Well, when the path switched to loose soil coated in pine needles while simultaneously increasing the slope to something between 50 and 90 degrees, the four of us started to question our sanity. Of course two very in shape guys heading down saying it was too tough, also played a major role in our doubts. Lori being the smart one (and gets the gold star award for knowing her limits and not being stubborn or competitive) headed back with Gianni, leaving me and Andrew the important message of catching up with Enzo, another volunteer that he had headed back.

Within 5 more minutes of heading up the trail, the idea of turning back crossed both our minds- but we were tasked with an important message! Somehow the trail got even steeper and with every few steps (or you know, clinging onto any shrub or exposed root) I found myself hugging a tree to avoid slipping and losing hard earned steps. So yeah, I hugged many trees today!

When we thought it couldn't get worse...it did. The trail became so steep that even quick feet up the cascading gravel wasn't going to work. So it really was a crawl/scramble up the hill. This is where we caught up with several others, including the woman that I quickly dubbed hazard as she would lose her traction and slide. It was a challenge, but we saw that the path leveled out above us. We followed a fire road for a little while, thankful for the well marked trail. At an opening we saw Enzo and relayed the message that we were the last ones. (Does anyone else see this sad but true pattern emerging in my running events?) He passed us off to another volunteer and we continued on. At first it looked level...and then we saw steps after we tromped through the plants growing over the path. Mamma mia.

Luckily, not too long after that last incline, we started our decent. Before too long we found ourself back by the clearing and Enzo was still there showing us where to go next. [This is worth noting because in so many of these Naples area races volunteers pack it in not too much after the winner crosses the finish line and that course are so poorly marked when you are bringing up the end you really question if you're one the right path or not.]

We followed the arrows and tape to an area on the side of the hill that must be a mess come winter time with all the rain. The fine gravel and dust was easily a foot deep and after our initial steps we concluded that trying to keep it out of our shoes was pointless. Without the fear of sliding down since the gravel enclosed our shoe with each step, we finally picked up some speed. With the dust flying behind us we joked that we were walking on the moon as our legs rejoiced over a different movement. After a few minutes into this, shoes were filling up with gravel and my poor (already abused) toes were packed in there. There was also a strange burning feeling around my ankles. It took me a few more steps to realize that the hot gravel was making this experience even less pleasant and made me wish I really did have some cardboard to slide down the hill.

At the end of the "landslide" area we parked on some rocks while we pour mounds of dirt and gravel from our shoes. Apparently we weren't the only one with this issued; at least one pair of discarded socks was there with us.

Our next terrain was a very organized pine tree grove, as in all the trees were perfectly spaced. As the land leveled out we figured we had to be near the end of the trail. When we reached the end of a wood walkway, a man sitting in the shade of a tree offered us water, and we started to chat with him. After a minute of chatting he informed us that the finish line was just down the road. Are you kidding me? So with one last chug of water we finally decided to make a run for it. Well, a downhill jog with extremely tired legs.

In true form, our group was still waiting for us- even if the inflatable arch had already been deflated and put away. Worse part? We took 2 hours longer than the finisher's 51 minutes.

Yeah, 51 minutes for a 9K. This course was crazy.

Castellabate: Beach Day & 10K

It's funny to me that I'll set a goal, achieve set goal, and then make a new goal. Well, Rome was the goal, so no more running after that- right? Well, but then there was the Naples 1/2 a few weeks (okay, 4) later. Yep, that's the one that I did zero training for and wanted to die around the half way mark. Needless to say, with that less than pleasant experience still fresh in my mind and the daily visual reminder of multiple toe nails ready to fall off...the plan was to not run any events until September when they switch to the evening start times to avoid the hot heat. Any running that would occur would either be in the AC gym or at a crazy hour in the morning, just like I did last summer.

But then my plan changed when I saw a day trip with LPN at the beach with a 10K in the evening. Sounded great so Lori and I signed up. Well, more like I told her we were participating but "please double check your calendar so you don't miss anything while spending the day with LPN."

And that's how our Saturday morning landed us on a bus headed to a town we couldn't remember the name of to spend some time on the beach, eat Italian food, and then run a 10K before the trek back to Naples. Rough life- right? Sometimes it's not half bad living out this way.

We arrived in Castellabate late morning and after some wandering through the streets, found the right section of beach to set up our umbrella and lounge chair city. With the sand burning our bare feet there was a lot of inspiration to move quickly when making the dash to the water. The initial shock of mild temp water wore off pretty fast, but the fact you could walk out for yards without the water passing your knees still amazes me. I guess this really is a sea and not ocean like I keep being corrected on! No matter what type of body of salt water I was splashing around it, it felt fabulous and was entertaining. Why? One of the other club members convinced his daughter that there were no sharks because all the jellyfish scare them away. When she got over both sharks and jellies...he started mentioning other predators. To the point that she thought a piece of trash (one of few we saw) was something other than just a piece of paper floating in the water.

After a good soak in the sea we warmed up under the sun and threw clothes back on to walk down the beach and head up to the place we were eating lunch. Although we're one big "LPN family" there are some family members I get along with really well- like my running partner and a family where he's the one that runs, but I work with her. So we plopped down together at the end of the large table around a backpack we didn't know. Turns out the owner of the backpack AKA "new guy" fit it right away with my little segment of family and we spent more time laughing and talking than eating. Yeah, nothing like a multiple course meal before running a 10K- right?

Post meal soak, water hydration, and sun then it was time to get ready for our race. We had already been warned by Uncle Gianni (club leader) that if anyone bailed due to sun burn we'd be killed. You better believe that was extra inspiration to keep the SFP50 going on my body. Getting ready for the race consisted of shower poolside then deck changing. Yep. Another one of those useful skills I learned in high school! Of course it was more like when we'd have pool practice then have "dry land" and not of our clothes quite wanted to get on our still damp bodies...but we managed.

The 10K race lead us around town and then back on some country roads right around sunset. Absolutely beautiful along the water front (think Pismo Beach, CA), and then in the back roads even the bugs were pushed to the back of the brain as the sky turned its night time pinks, oranges, and purples. Um yeah. The sun had already set by the time that I finished the event. Still have no idea what time I did it in either...note to self- charge your watch. I wasn't among the last group to cross the finish line, but I wasn't too far ahead of them. All I know is, even if it took me 2 hours to finish this race I wasn't going to give the satisfaction to the ambulance driver (bringing up the end of the race) trying to tell me it was time to quit. And no, it really wasn't. By my calculations if there is a 2 hours time limit and you're 1/2 way by 35 minutes...I'm pretty sure I'm going to finish under the time line.

Yes. He made me that mad. Almost to the point when we stopped by the last time I told him I was finishing it no matter what and nearly offered him my race #. From that point on it was my goal to start picking off the runners I saw in the not so far distance just so I didn't have to talk to him again. Well, that and avoiding bugs in the eyes. Managed to pass a runners and it felt great. Until a massive hill, but like in every other race I've done some fabulous Italian comes up from behind and slows pace to encourage me with a forte or piano piano as we both make it up the hill. The race trail finally lead us back into the middle of town where 95% of LPN was waiting for me to cross the line, which always makes it a fabulous adrenaline rush. Best part though? My goodie bag had a bottle of wine. And yes, (mom I'm ashamed to type this but) as soon as the award presentations started the bottle was opened and I was sharing it. (And we wonder why Americans often get a bad name...)

Tired from the sun, miles, and wine we loaded up the bus and started the trek back to Naples. Something like 2 am was when I finally walked through the door. Why? Well, it's horrible traffic super late at night time of year again. Oh well, nothing like a "come back run" with your running family soaking in all the beautiful things Southern Italy has to offer.

Three Words

You know those pesky games played to introduce yourself in a group of strangers? Those "what CD can't you live without" or "what is your favorite holiday tradition" questions that you forget the person's answer in less time that you took to figure out some answer? Well, with the weekend being a little crazy I am forcing myself to sum it up in 3 words. Of course these words are going to be explained, but these 3 words will be my subject points.

#1: Kids
#2: Protests
#3: Pain

Got 'em?

Friday night on the way home I picked up 2 kids from my coworker to finally make our sleepover plans that have been in the making since soccer season a reality. Miss Fancypants, Mr. Poon, and I (Queen Cootie) had a fabulous night making sugar cookies, eating pizza, and being silly. In the morning (640am- painful!), we continued the fun with Uno, a picnic breakfast in the sunroom, and movies before heading off to our baseball games.

As we were minutes away from the park, we were stopped at the intersection by police directing traffic. My lack of Italian and his of English finally got me a "wait here until I tell you" or you know, maybe it was me trying to explain that I was trying to head to Carney Park? While I dialed up my assistant coach to assure him that I'd be there, with 2 of his kids, the protest parade walked right in front of us. As in an "oh crap, AFN warns me about not being involved with sort of stuff and I have two kids entrusted to my care right now" close. While they started to complain and fret about missing their games I tried to remember just what this protest is about. All I remembered was that it wasn't supposed to impact my route to the park and yes, it's going to get worse as the months go by. I think it has to do with a water treatment facility and/or plans for a landfill...

About 15 minutes passed and then we were on our way to the park so I could find the other 11 of "my" kids and coach my team to another victory. And you know what? They not only won, but 3 of them actually took what we learned at practice and applied it to get 4 outs in one inning! After the game, we stayed at the park chatting, playing soccer and volleyball before eating late lunch and then watched the NATO rugby team.

Once home, I evaluated the damage from my house guests: flour coated kitchen, a sink full of dishes, a weary Nico. Luckily once he realized it was just me walking through that door he resumed being my silly kitty and played until it was time to get to bed in preparation for the Naples 1/2 Marathon the next morning.

Everyone has a different definition of pain, but my current one would be "the only feeling your body has after running 13.1 miles on cobblestone streets taking you up and down hills when you haven't ran in 4 weeks." Ouchie! But I did it without injury, and without quitting, and although it was my slowest time at this distance...it wasn't that far off. I blame my lack of Lori running at my side but that's just because I really miss her and would rather blame her than admit it ;) Lucky for me, I found a stand in and he did a good job making me keep running when I wanted to lay down in the middle of the road and take a break. I'm pretty sure this was my last run for a while; my toes need a break and it's going to warm up to "Katie melts" temps before too long.

As we walked back into the metro station we heard the dreaded word sciopero. It's one of those words I learned early here in Italy because it means "strike." So, the public transportation folks were once again protesting but I really have no idea why on this one other than it's been a few months so they must be over due?

Hm. I did okay with that summary. Like always there are way more details and tangents to explore so if you feel like asking questions- go for it! Right now though, I need to go drink another L of water, cook some dinner, and then collapse on my couch with an icepack or two.

Rome Marathon in 30 Seconds

We arrived.
We had a blast at the Expo after meeting the group.
Our race was (once again) sponsored by Aleve.
We ran.
And ran a little more.
Munched on cookies along the course.
Took photo/prop me up on a rail breaks.
Lori singing and the promise of "bling" are the reasons my feet carried me over the finish line.
We crossed that finish line without one injury!
5:33:50something is a long time to be running, but well under the 7 hour time limit!

Even with the exhaustion and pain I'm feeling today, and the near certainty that I'll be -3 toe nails come summer time I'd do it again in a heart beat.

That is register, not run it- Paris 2013 is soon enough to run 26.2 miles!