Learning to Run & Running to Learn

Never say Never!

2012-02-05T19:14:00.001-06:00

First of all I have to say a HUGE, HUGE Congratulations to so many KC Trail Runners who raced at Rocky Raccoon in Huntsville, Texas this weekend! Ashley A., Emily N. and Wael S. who did awesome in their first 50milers! Darin S. who killed another 50miler and THEN paced Sherrie K. on her last 40miles to her first 100mi finish! Ummm..speaking of bad-ass Sherrie…this awesome lady killed and I mean totally killed her FIRST 100miler!!! Fourth place overall woman and a sub-24 finish in her first 100mi Ultra…yeah BAD-ASS!!! Mudbabe Sophia W. snagged herself a Sub-24 buckle (her second Rocky Buckle btw) and we had barefooted Jarod R., Honey Badger Erica C. and the awesome Matty M. who battled some serious obstacles to finish their first 100milers! YOU GUYS KICKED ASS in some seriously muddy conditions!! Damn…I know some pretty kick-ass runners!

Compared to what these guys and gals ran this week, my 25miles this WEEK seems paltry and low. I will be totally honest, sometimes its so hard to be in the midst of all these amazing runners and not feel like you are just weak and slow all the time. BUT I always try to remind myself where I started and where I am right now with my running! I have to remind myself that all of them didn’t get here by just starting and running a 100 right away, they started small, dreamt big and worked their running sculpted butts off to get here…and that with time, patience and lots of hard work, nothing is impossible!!

Since my hubby was working pretty much all weekend, I spent most of my weekend post long run tracking friends running Rocky Raccoon. I got my longest run to date since Dogwood 50k done with my running buddy Lisa Saturday morning. Our usual trails were closed due to the almost 2” of rain, but you know where our running preference is when we still opted to avoid pavement and instead running at Olathe Prairie Center trails which were waterlogged and muddy. It was 12 sometimes tough, sometimes awesome, but all in all invigorating miles in squishy and sloppy trails with some heavy misting off an on throughout! We weren’t totally sure of the loop, so we pretty much just ran whichever we decided whenever we hit a marker for an off-shoot. We ran some sections once, some twice, crossed some flowing streams several times ran through mud, some soggy grass, some gravel paths..it was truly a run with a little bit of everything and a whole lot of conversation and fun with a great running friend! We even had a unusual critter along the trail….a crawfish on Kansas Trails!

I can honestly say 2 years ago I would have never thought of doing this and now we go looking for it . This is how far my running has come!!

My mindset has changed for sure! I spent most of Saturday post run and Sunday tracking my friends running a mud fest that was Rocky Raccoon. Two years ago I would have never done this and of course the thought of actually wanting to run a 50 or even a 100miler NEVER crossed my mind! Last year I tracked some friends, but NEVER seriously contemplated running those distances! If someone had asked me even a year ago..my answer likely was “well maybe a 50k..but NEVER a 50 or 100”! Ask me now…Ask me today as I build towards my first 40mi race …and I will just say you NEVER know . This was only confirmed by what I felt as I kept seeing the progress made by the runners as they ran towards their goals, and seeing the updates flowing through twitter and Facebook. My first thought was not “they are doing awesome, no way in hell I’ll ever do that”, instead it was “they are doing awesome, I wonder if I can do it”. Guess I should NEVER say NEVER!!!

"Be not afraid of going slowly; be afraid only of standing still." - Chinese proverb

‘Winter’ Training

2012-01-19T22:24:00.000-06:00

Yes..it is still Winter! We are past mid January and (knock on wood and fingers crossed) we’ve had a relatively mild winter so far! I know kids are likely bummed that there have been no snow days yet, BUT I for one am super thrilled!! I have a big race and training to keep up with and this weather makes it so much nicer to be out there! In the first 20 days of 2012, I’ve run in almost 70F temperatures and in 15F weather with winds blowing at 20-30mph and everything in between!! Its been a weather roller coaster to say the least.

Check out the 7-day forecast according to our local tv station….

…vs. what The Weather Channel shows for the next 10 days….I think I’d like to pick that forecast please

Now don’t get me wrong, I have no issues running in the rain and getting a little muddy on the trails, but the ones I run regularly tend to close when it rains in order to prevent trail damage. So the less rain the better…yes I know I’m being a little selfish here! Hey a girl has to train right?!

Speaking of training, I’m two and half weeks into Free State 40miler training and we’re building my base back up. It’s my first time using a coach for training and pretty sure it was the best decision I made for myself this training cycle. Every Sunday evening I receive a google doc with my training for the week. So far its been 4 run days, two cross training days and one complete rest day. Since I’ve dealt with some off and on issues one of the main goals of this training cycle (again) is to build miles and endurance to be able to finish my first 40miles strong and injury-free. Speed is not the primary goal. The first two week yoga was the main form of cross training and starting this week we’ve integrated strength training and I’m loving it. I’ve got to say having used a long term plans in the past, I really like not knowing what’s beyond the upcoming week. It seems to help me focus on the training week ahead without looking at what coming ahead and freaking myself out!! I guess ignorance is bliss in this case

Now this may not seem like much to most of you that run 50-100+ miles each week, but with my last run this week I hit 50miles for the month…which I believe is the earliest that I’ve hit this number since I’ve been running. And my longest run so far has only been 7miles! So this is a very good sign With the exception of a sore bum that I got when I fell on ice running Coleen’s Frozen Ass run last Friday the 13th which btw was an absolute blast!…my legs have felt pretty good! Definitely a good sign

As you can see training so far has been good..but I’ve got a long way to go and lots more miles to put on these legs! 91 days and counting down….one week at a time!!!

Hello 2012!!

2012-01-04T17:30:00.000-06:00

Wow…yes it is here! Welcome to a brand spanking new year and if the Mayan ‘Doomsday’ calendar happens to be right..welcome to our last year on this Earth!! Welcome 2012!!

For the record, my plans extend well beyond 2012..so I think we’ll all be laughing about the Doomsday come January 4, 2013!

OK…enough about ‘doomsday prophesies’ let’s move on!

My 2011 Reflections post basically wrapped up what I loved about 2011! Yes, there were many miles, but I instead of looking at miles, I prefer to remember the moments and that is why there is no total miles tracked listed here. 2011 showed me one thing, that I am much stronger than I think I am, both physically and mentally. Its now time to look forward and outline what I plan on accomplishing in 2012!

Similar to last year, I have some personal ones that I’m holding close and not quite ready to share with the world quite yet. When the time is right you will know!

Onto my Running and Fitness and Heath related goals….

Goal #1 - Consistency with Cross Training to Keep Me Injury-Free!
As it was last year, my main goal is stay injury free. I did better last year that years before, but still dealt with a few aggravations. I think more commitment to cross training in the form of yoga and strength training will help me. I did ok last year, but wasn’t as consistent as I would like to be!
Goal #2 – Consistency with Healthy Eating!
Get better with my eating habits! I think I’m pretty decent when it comes to food intake and try to make sure I balance things out well. BUT my biggest weakness…sweets and good beer (my friend Ed’s home brews are the BOMB)!! Last week I bought two new cookbooks in an effort to eat better, add more vegetables in to our diet (other than what I juice daily) and to give the hubby and me a good start to better eating this year! Yes..and I’m going to be more conscious of my sweets and the delicious beer I love! I’m not saying I am giving these up, but will be more careful about how much!
Goal #3 – Complete Free State Ultra 40miler and Consistency with my Running!
This is my main goal race this spring. Free State last year was where I completed my first Marathon and this year I’m stepping up the distance to the 40miler! Come April 21st, I plan on being ready to take that course on! In an effort to really train for this well and be really ready for this race I’m working with a coach for the first time ever! I realized I need some help training for this distance and I want to do it smart and do it right and be a stronger runner than I was when I ran Dogwood and I know she will help me get there!
Goal #4 – Complete a 50miler or 100k and Dream BIG!
So this is my ‘make me sweat at night’ (as my coach likes to call it) or as I like to say ‘make me pee my pants a little’ goal! This is an outside goal and will likely depend on how a lot of other things fall into place! BUT I figured Dreaming BIG can’t hurt right?!! And Plus..if the Mayan Doomsday prophecy does come true..at least I’ll got out a 100k Ultra Finisher!!! LoL!

So Dream on and Dream Big folks! Let me know what your 2012 Dreams are…..

A Time to Reflect!

2011-12-27T16:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas is done and the Waves are Closing in on 2011!

Its been busy year both on running and non-running related fronts!

One the non-running front, in mid 2010 Hubby had gotten laid off and he was working a crappy retail job with no chances of moving up. Thankfully in June 2011 he started working for company that are building and managing indoor soccer facilities and while he has been incredibly busy and has put in some crazy hours in, it is something that has a lot of potential for him! After several years, he is finally getting a chance to work along the lines of what he got his degree in and learn so much more along the way!

We made some very tough financial decisions in 2010 when he got laid off and while we thought we would never be able to stick to the plan, we are now working through it well and are still managing to have fun and live our lives…just in a much more tighter budget! The good thing is it’s only going to make us more financially independent in the years to come!

Of course the biggest and greatest day of 2011 is when I became a U.S. Citizen It was a longtime in the making and the moment I finally took the Oath was truly unbelievable!

On the running front…looking at my list from last year, my goals were fairly well accomplished!

Goal #1 – Stay Injury Free
I did have a few issues with my Achilles and after doing some road running in the last few weeks am experiencing some sore shins, but overall, I managed to incorporate cross training in the form of a lot of yoga to keep me mostly injury free. I was pretty much in training all through the year and am taking a break right now before going back into it in 2012! I was schedule to run Houston Marathon mid January and after a lot of thinking, decided to not run it this year! My shins are having some issues with road running and my hip has bothered me a little as well, so I figured smart move for me would be to simply concentrate on my main goal for 2012!
Goal #2 – Complete a Marathon Distance
While it was a tough run physically due to stomuch issues throughout the race, I did finish my first Marathon at the Free State Trail Marathon on 4/23!
Goal #3 – Complete a 50k Distance
This was a tentative goal, but deep down I knew I wanted to get that accomplished in 2011. At Dogwood Canyon 50k Trail Run I stepped into the ultra running world exactly 6 months to the day (10/23) after my first Marathon finish. Holy Hills that about sums up that race

I wish I had more miles…but I’m happy with what I managed to accomplish in 2011! After all….I need to leave something for 2012 right?!!

Looking back there were things I could have done better and things I should have done differently, BUT whatever I did I learned from and moved on!
2011 seemed to have flown by and I’m sure a year from now I will be saying the same of 2012! I try to remind myself everyday that we all get one life and it goes by so quickly that we need to cherish Family and Friends and live each moment to the fullest and as best as we can! I’ve had success and failure, wonderful moments and ones that I wish I could relive, but at the end of it all I’ve loved, lived and tried my best to make every moment count…and that is my greatest accomplishment this year!

What are you reflecting on as this year comes to a close??

To Run on Not to Run…Houston that is….

2011-12-18T19:40:00.001-06:00

Wow…December…well past mid-December to be exact and a week out from Christmas! Finally got some Christmas shopping done this weekend, oh yeah we just got started this weekend too! It’s been kind a very busy time around here with work, which is a good thing for sure!

One week for Christmas means 4 weeks for Houston!! I wish I could say that my training has been going great and that I’m as ready as I can be for my first road Marathon….BUT sadly that is not the case. At this point I should be logging 14-16mi long runs and I’ve struggled to get past about 6miles on road! My shins and left hip have not cooperated running on road. I’ve tried different shoes, yoga and all the prescribed stretches, but something is off

This past week I’ve been really thinking about how I want to move forward. We’ve not made travel plans or booked anything as yet, so I knew I had to decide quickly before we confirmed our plans. I made one more attempt Saturday morning and I knew 26.2mi feeling the way I did yesterday was going to be pure hell! Hubby was at work and so I pondered while I got some Christmas shopping done. After talking to him once he got home, I finally decided to forego running Houston next month!

Running on road has been tough for me! While trail runs are definitely not easy, I enjoy them so, so much more and I relish the challenge and exhilaration I get from finishing a good run on the trails and I’ve never felt that on road. These last few weeks running has been miserable and I have always told myself it’s only worth doing if I enjoy doing it…and bottom line is I don’t really enjoy road running and for whatever reason, my body doesn’t like it either. My gut feeling right now is that if I even try to force running Houston given the way I feel I will more than likely end up getting hurt and I do not want to risk that! Free State 40miler in April is my goal race next Spring and getting hurt at Houston would put that at risk! So there it is! No Houston Marathon for me!

I wish I knew why road was so hard for me..maybe its all in my head, either way I know I don’t enjoy it much. I do feel like I let myself down a little, but I’m feeling better about my decision today. Call me weird, call me a quitter…but I just know this is the right decision for me at this point! I always told myself that the commitment I make to run is worth it as long as it was fun and enjoyable. Yes, we all have the occasional bad days, but I’m taking the bad weeks as sign that my heart and body is telling me to get back to what I enjoy…and that my friends is trail running! So I’m putting the stress of Houston away and focusing on Free State 40…17 weeks and Counting!!!

Dude…We got so Friggin’ LOST!! Report

2011-11-30T15:08:00.001-06:00

Dude, Where’s the Trail….no seriously..where the hell is that damn trail???

So.. I’ve been trying my hardest to try to come up with a report and frankly try to wrap my head around what happened last Sunday during ‘Dude, Where’s the Trail’ run (insert me scratching my head in confusion here). As the title of the post suggest, We got LOST! Having said that, let me back up now….

I should have known that this would not go as planned as my morning started off with my car refusing to start . It was about 27-28F and windy and for some reason, whenever it dips below about 30F, my car decides to be a pain in my rear! Of course, it picked Sunday to do that! After a few attempts, I head back in, then tell hubby, grab his keys, leave mine and head out the door again. Of course..I get back to the car and Duh realize that I can’t get my stuff since I left the keys with him..so back inside, grab my keys, his keys, get stuff out, take his car and then drop keys off to him. About 20mins later than I planned to leave I’m finally on my way to Kelly’s house where he was going to drive us to the start location.

We get to the site and it’s right by the lake, which means cold made colder by the wind coming off the lake. I decided to add another layer to what I currently wearing. It was COLD! Yes, that is a look of ‘what the hell am I doing?’ on my face! I needed another layer over this one!

We signed in..which was basically letting the race director Lou know that we were leaving and him writing our names down. Did I mention this was low key event . We had three other ladies hat were joining us. Ashley, Tracie and Ruth (who had run this before) grabbed our maps, quiz and headed out.
Kelly (in yellow) only guys in the middle of us! Thank God for Kelly!!!
Note that I have tights underneath wind pants (we were advised since we’d be dealing with a lot of thorny areas), short sleeve shirt, Mizuno Breath Thermo top (Thanks Allison) and Nike fleece top! Covered head with headband and wooly cap! Brrr!!!

All smiles heading out…little did Kelly and I know what we were in for?!

Now we did let the ladies know we were going slow…but of course slow is relative right?, since they were off. Kelly and I followed along. A little ways in Ashley was having leak issues with her hydration pack, so Kelly got that resolved and we kept moving. I was still pretty cold and it was kinda hard to get legs moving. We ran through some pavement and was a barely 2miles in…I think…when we made the turn into the trails. THIS is when this all goes wrong! Kelly and I see the other three ladies turn up into the trail so we know where to turn. We get there and ‘poof’ they had vanished into thin air.I tell you, no trace at all!! Whaaattt?!!

Kelly did a great job in using signs of disturbed leaves and indications of where a trail might be to move us along. We crossed a dry creek bed and were trying to follow along on the map, which got tricky as we had no reference points now. At one point, we thought we got to what was the ‘crushed stone bike trail’ only to find out that was way too quick to get to it. We kept going and went up an embankment and saw a Rotary camp, which granted were supposed to see, but it was on the totally wrong side . We tried to follow the map, but well that didn’t work out so well. So I took out the iPhone gps and cross-referenced that with the map we had and we decided to head North. That seemed to be our best bet at that time. We saw tons of markings, but were told to look out for the trail markings that had black stripes…which we barely saw, problem #1. Then we followed some red flags which we came to find out later..were not the the red flags we should have followed, problem #2. We kept North and finally found a piece of trail marking…Woohoo And then got lost again, BooHoo Then we backtracked and saw a water tower (which was not at all mentioned in our directions) and decided ok let’s head towards a road. We followed gas lines and finally hit a road. At this point we rechecked my phone and realized we were now headed in the wrong direction. So we re-oriented ourselves and ‘bushwhacked’ our way and finally found what we needed to be looking for. Hell we even found the steel girder and crossed it and headed to the crushed stone bike path.

We kept on this path and realized we were actually on track for once. We finally got to the crushed stone bike path which we kept going for a little over one mile and then got onto another road. Barely a few steps into this path we even hit the two wooden posts, we were actually following the directions! We felt Awesome!! Hope!! Of course..one wrong turn while bushwhacking, we were lost again! we kept reading directions that stated to go down and up an embankment which we kinda never did, or maybe we did in reverse! We kept moving and saw some trail signs, but never felt like we were in right spot. So trail blazers that we are..NOT, We bushwhacked our way to anther trail hoping it was the right one and finally got a trail head. I walked up a little and saw a sign that said Larry Mattonen Trail, so we decided to keep going on it. NOW if I had JUST walked a little more to the road sign we would have realized we were pretty much at the end of LEG 1 and at East Park Road. BUT…twas not to be!

We kept moving along on this trail and were probably about 5miles into the 7.3mi Leg 1. We figured we had to be close right..that is until we saw the Marina dock!!! Ah Frack!! Damn it, we had already seen this once and should not be seeing it now . We just went in a circle! We tried calling Lou at this point, but no answer! Of course! So at this point, we were pretty much turned around. It was almost 3hrs in and we were not even out of Leg 1 (7.3mi) and we still had about 14miles to go. Now while we were well equipped with food and supplies, the thought of having to what we just did in the dark was not a good one, so made the decision to get ourselves to a place where we could call for a pickup. Lo and behold, we realized that the trail head was so very close to the end of Leg 1, but that would have been taking a 1.5mi or so shortcut! 10miles and several lost circles later, we walked up the road and called for Kelly’s wife to come pick us up. Just as we got done talking to her one of the volunteers was driving by and gave us ride back to the parking lot.

We were disappointed, frustrated and cold! It sucked to have been that close to the end of that Leg. Part of me really wanted to keep going, but given the way we got here, I knew we risked being stuck out when it got dark, so I think it was the right decision to make. I think we were on the right track, but somehow, somewhere got turned around..isn’t that how it always goes?!!

In any case, so very glad I had Kelly on this adventure! He was such a great sport to sign up with me for this run, despite never having run more than Half Marathon distance on road, he was willing to give it try. We were so ambitious to think that if things went well we could even go for the 50k! What fools we were!!

We both experienced out first DNF at this run, which was a bummer . We totally underestimated how tough this would be and how much orienteering was required. But we tried right?! And hey at least we got in a 10mi run and I got my first stupid cold run for the season out of the way! As one of my friends pointed out to me, this was one fail on the trails and I’m still up on the count! I’ve had many successes on trails this year and guess I was due for one setback! But in the end Dude Won….this time!

We will be back next year!! We know what we’re up against (well at least for the first leg) and we will take it on in 2012!
Dude, You will be Conquered and You Will Go Down!!

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Note – In case you want to know the directions we followed to try get through the first leg

LEG 1: CACTUS TRAIL, MATTONEN TRAIL, BISON ENCLOSURE TO SAILBOAT COVE, 7.3 MILES, TOTAL 7.3.

1.1 From the marina go north across the road and up the drive to the campground. Keep going straight west to space #7 (across from #6) and the Cactus Trail.

1.2 Follow the trail to Colbern Road, go left .3 mile and look for red flags and the start of the Larry Mattonen Trail on the north of Colbern going NE. You will cross several dry creeks.

1.3 Eventually you will cross a large creek on a big steel girder, then left on an old road bed left for 100 yards, then spur to the left , across a small stream, up a hill to a crushed stone bike path.

1.4 Go left on the bike path for 1.1 miles to an intersection with an old road.

1.5 Left 100 yards on this old road to two wood posts and a trail on the right.

1.6 Go right (north) on this trail a hundred yards to a spur on your left. Follow this spur, often faint, for .35 miles to a bushwhack on your left down an embankment. Climb up the opposite bank to the Tcha-to-ga Trail, go left (north then east) on the Trail .90 mile to East Park Road.

1.7 Cross East Park Road to animal enclosure fence, go right (South) and follow this fence 1.80 miles counter-clockwise. It detours to the right near a barn but returns to the fence. You eventually end back at East Park Road. Go right (north) on the road about 100 yards to a trail on right just past a gas line marker. Follow the trail .65 miles to Sailboat Cove. This is the end of leg 1 and the start of leg 2. .

Sounds simple enough right? Yep..that’s what we though too!!

Be Thankful!

2011-11-23T07:41:00.001-06:00

Can’t believe another Thanksgiving is upon us?!! Wow, this year has flown by! I’m sure most of you are travelling to meet or getting ready to host family and friends in the next few days! In all the craziness of the season, it’s so easy to lose sight of what it’s truly all about?

What am I Thankful for this year?

An amazing husband who supports me and loves me in everything I do…even when he may not fully understand it at times . We have a lot to be thankful for as it was a tough year for him job-wise. I’m so proud of him of how hard he is working at his new job and of all that he has yet to accomplish!
My mom, step-dad and brother who may be far away from me physically, but are always, always close in my heart! If I have one wish this holiday season, it’s that we get to spend the next one together!!
The best in-laws that one could ever hope for! Seriously, I’m ridiculously lucky to have you all in my life!
Amazing and wonderful friends that I have in my life. The ones that have remained close and all the wonderful new ones I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know. You all Rock!
For FINALLY being a U.S. Citizen! I’m constantly reminded of how blessed I am to be in this country and to never take it for granted!
Having a job that I challenges me and I love doing! Yes, it has it’s frustrations, but at the end of the day, it’s what I love to do and for that I’m thankful!
For a healthy body and strong mind that gives me the ability to challenge myself in ways I would have never thought possible. I may hurt and be sore sometimes, but it’s an amazing thing!
For all the things I sometimes take for granted!! I’m very lucky to have all things I have in my life right now and whatever I don’t that I bitch and complain about…maybe I’m not meant to have them, or maybe it’s just not the right time! But I’m Thankful for all that I do have!!

What Are You Thankful For Today??

Hope Everyone has a Safe, Stress-Free Thanksgiving Holiday or Whatever you choose to celebrate this season!

Directionally-Challenged Lost Souls' Feeding the Vultures Run!!

2011-11-15T20:53:00.001-06:00

Of course you’d want to sign up right?!! Why wouldn’t you

Here’s the description according to the RD, Lou Joline…

Dude, Where's the Trail Run...also known as the "Directionally-Challenged Lost Souls' Feeding the Vultures Run." The headliner run is a 50-Kilometer Solo Run, but there is also a two-person relay, and 3-leg Bill Smith Sampler, and a 33K (20.7-mile) solo run.
This is a non-competitive event. Run it with a friend or friends. Groups of 1 to 5 will start at one time in "waves." (Dude Waves). Maps, aid, and a finisher's award will be provided.
You will need to bring: a water bottle or hydration system, a cell phone, the map provided, and your wits. Optional: a compass, some nutritional items, and someone else's wits.

So what about the course……Check it out!

All courses are measured and fairly close to dead-on accurate, unless you take a wrong turn. The course is very scenic and wooded, and is on single-track trails, deer trails, and a little bit of bushwhacking in NO TRAILS areas. There is also some pavement about 2/3 of the way through the 50K race.
Is this a run for you? We don't like whiners….No course maps or course descriptions are available before packet pickup. Finish times range from 5 hours to over 10 hours.
The race director (Lou Joline), advises strongly against wearing shorts on this run. Lightweight pants (not tights) are more suited to the rigors of running through the woods' brambles and wild rose bushes, not to mention the ubiquitous Missouri Thorn Trees with their 4-inch flesh-eating thorns.

Now tell me you don’t want to run this??

I wasn’t able to do this one last year, but so far have a team in the making to run it this year. What better way to burn off some Thanksgiving grub than run through the woods with some great people and spend the day trying not to get lost!! We’re planning on doing the 33k (20.7mi) distance, but who knows what will happen and that is all part of the adventure after all?!!

Now do you get why I LOVE trail running?!!

Hmmmm…..What Next???

2011-11-08T21:34:00.001-06:00

So it’s been a little over 2 weeks since this!

Yes…I’m still hanging on to some of that runner’s high! Trust me that was quite the high!

I took one solid week off after finishing my first Ultra. All I did was yoga to try to get some of those muscles loosened up. Glutes were tight and of course Quads and shins took a beating on those downhill! Seriously my downhill running form sucks! First run back on the trails was very, very rough and shins were ridiculously tight! But I did manage to get 12miles in through the week. There was no need to push hard as I had no races planned until Houston Marathon mid January. Just some easy runs to ease back into things and listen to my body.

Also during this past week my mind had been wandering! So what to do next??
I remember in April as soon as I finished Free State Marathon, my mind jumped to what 50k I could try. Now that I’ve got a 50k completed, logically and in some craziness, the wheels had started turning to what challenge I could take on next!

I’ve been thinking about this for the past week or so, BUT wanted to talk to the hubby first and make sure he was ok with what was bouncing about in my head before letting it out. He’s been so awesome with all my running endeavors so far, but I know it can be stressful on him as well. He is pretty busy with work since they opened their new indoor soccer facility and it looks like it’s likely going to be the case at least through Spring. Whatever I undertook, I want to make sure it’s in line with we both want. After all I would not want to take something on without his support!! So after talking it over with him and (while he did say he’d just cry into his beer) with his support and all things going as scheduled, I’m hoping to run the Free State Trail Run 40miler next April.

Ok….so its out now!! Granted this means at least another couple of 50k and Marathon distance runs as part of training. While I did finish the 50k, I know more miles on my legs would have been better. But I knew I had done a Marathon on trails and I needed just another 10k beyond that. The 40miler will require much more than that and also a different approach to my training. I have a little under 6 months to train, which given that we’re headed into winter and darker evenings should be interesting!

So Guess I should have plenty beer on hand between now and April 21st?!!

Dogwood Canyon 50k …almost wordless!

2011-10-26T20:50:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Ultra Running courtesy of Dogwood Canyon 50k!

Colors of my first 50k!

And we’re off…

One of many Creek crossings..

Running through the rock-stars…

Over the hills and through the woods…

Climbing down and up..and in reverse…

Into the Open land…

And back into the woods…and some aid…

A little bit of paved…and more colors to keep me in awe..

Almost there..

And crossed over to Ultra Running Land!! Woohoo!!!

Dogwood Canyon 50k Race Report

2011-10-25T17:46:00.001-05:00

Short versionStart, creek crossing, creek crossing x7 (I think), hills, hills, hills (they go on for a while), Sunny pasture 3mi loop, hills, hills, hills (just reverse the earlier ones), creek crossingx7 (I think) Finish! Missed official cutoff, but finished my first 50k is 9:42:18!!! I just kept following the mantra….

Long version (take a break and have a beer, it’s going to be a long one)The trip started with my friend Lisa and her partner Dave picking me up Friday evening as we had planned to get an early start and break the drive up by staying at their lake house around Warsaw, MO. We stopped off for dinner a Pizza hut and headed about another 30min to the house and turned in early. It was so incredibly quiet and peaceful and I had a solid 11 or so hours of sleep! I swear I could’ve slept endlessly in that quiet! Woke up the next morning and we worked around the yard doing some fall maintenance raking some leaves, showered and headed towards Dogwood Canyon around 11.30am. The great company and peace and quiet was really helpful to keep my mind calm.

We stopped off at Dairy Queen and after a lunch of Chicken strips, fries and Mocha Moolatte headed towards Springfield, MO. Dave needed a handheld, so we decided to make a small detour to the first Bass Pro Shop in Springfield, MO. It’s a outdoor person’s jackpot! They even have camo hydration packs and handhelds. Dave decided on sticking with the handheld. Saw the craziest giant fish in there!!

Onto packet pickup and Dogwood Canyon. We got in around 5.30pm and picked up our packets. Awesome New balance tech t-shirt, Love it! All sorted out, we headed towards Kimberling Inn and straight next door to dinner at Nicols at the Pier with an awesome view of Table Rock Lake. Dinner was a delicious salad, almond crusted chicken with an Amaretto sauce, green beans and baked potato…yep plenty of carbs and protein as well.

They must have had a bass fishing tourney, as the Inn parking lot was a definitely boat heavy.

Off to bed early after setting up all my gear for the next day.

Another solid 7-8hrs of sleep and I was up, showered and ready to do this! We pulled into Dogwood Canyon around 7.20am and there were plenty of cars already. We got stuff ready, grabbed a few pictures and headed towards the start.
Lisa, Dave and I before heading into the start area.

We had a troop of Trail Nerds and Mud Babes at Dogwood that morning. Kansas City Trail runners represent!

After a few instructions, which I barely heard, I was on my way into my first 50k! Dave and I decided to stick together at the start. We were at the back at the pack and we were ok with that. The first 2 or so miles were filled with creek crossings. I lost count at 6 I think. After the 2nd one or so, I just dove in and decided, hey at least it will keep my feet cool .
Once the creek crossings were mostly done, we started the climbs right at the start past the first 2 miles. To be honest, with the exception of when the 50k’ers split off into a 3mile loop in the exposed sun pretty much the rest of it was all crazy monster climbs and downhill running. Check out the Elevation off my Garmin!

The course was basically an out and back for the 50k. After the creek crossings, we started climbing around the 3mi mark. I kept power walking up the hills as fast as I could, run downhill and on flat..which flat were pretty much a few yards for the most part, or at least it felt like it. I felt much better on food and stomach issues when compared with Free State Marathon exactly 6 months ago. I kept a regime of 2 salt caps every 45mins, Honey Stinger Gel or chews every hour, unless I happen to hit an aid station in that time at which time, I pretty much ate anything from gummy bears, peanut butter crackers, M&Ms, sport beans and of course the most awesome boiled potato with salt along with a steady liquid intake of PowerAde and coke! Yep kept that food and fluid intake up pretty well, almost felt a little piggy..LoL! I was not about to let lack of nutrition be an issue as that would have been a huge problem when trying to deal with these hills, which were challenging enough on their own. Just some of the views of the trails and hills I went through. Amazing views!

The trails were a lot of logging roads and were tons of rocks and gravel..oh and the giant snake skin added in for good measure The rocks really beat up my feet and made the down hills run/slides pretty interesting! I can totally feel the quads working hard.

Dave made me go ahead around the 4.5mi mark I think, so I kept moving. I caught up with two ladies Erika and Robyn doing the 25k. They were from the area and we chatted for a little while. Erika told Robyn and me to go ahead, so we went through to the next aid station and I kept moving ahead. From there on it was pretty much me by myself with the occasional chat with aid station personnel. At one point, you head into a 5mi loop of hills and each time you pass by a race marker, I noticed a 50k marker pointing in the opposite direction. Translation..coming back I’d have to do all these backwards I tried not to think about and just focused on trying to get to next aid station. After a series of up hills and downhill I headed into an aid station which then opened the course into a paved section.

It was at this point that I started seeing runners coming back toward the finish. I crossed Wael, who encouraged me and told me to just keep moving.We also crossed into Arkansas and back into Missouri in here.

Paved section ends and back into the hills!! Trust me the hills are a bit of a blur, but I think this is the point at which we headed into a crazy what seemed like a mile plus long incline. I crossed Matty, Brian B. and Hayley at this point. Thanks guys for your motivation! It meant so much!! Matty and Brian said I was looking good although I felt like I was barely moving! Brian turned around and walked up a few paces with me and told me what was coming up ahead. He let me know that the drop bags were ahead and to make sure I refilled my hydration pack as I’d be heading into a 3mi loop where I’d be exposed to the sun to make sure I had water and food in me. Thank goodness for him giving me a heads up, as I did not realize that I was almost out of water. THANKS Brian!! I refilled the pack, grabbed some salted potatoes and crackers and headed into the sun. There was no-one else except for me, the cows on the pasture and no shade! I hit a pretty steep downhill which was loose gravel. I went for it yelling ‘Oh Crap’ (well not quite those words) as as was flying down. About to the end of the hill I suddenly felt my ankle turn. I came to the end of the descent and started to panic a little as this was around the halfway point and the last thing I needed was a wonky ankle with these hills. I started walking a lot in this 3mi loop as the sun was starting to beat down and I was mentally starting to get down. I just kept thinking of how far I had to go and the hills I had to go back into and it took a lot out of me. I had sent my hubby and my friend Beka a text while at the aid station before the loop started and somewhere at this point got service again and got their replies and they both had words of encouragement which helped me stay motivated. Hell its not like I could stop here anyway right?! So I kept on moving….
This was the halfway point!

I just refocused and concentrated on getting back to the aid station again. Once I got there I grabbed more Honey Stinger Gels, took some Advil as a precaution for my ankle, thanked the volunteers and kept moving. They also told me Dave had entered into the loop, so I was happy to hear that. Lisa would have turned here to head towards the 25k finish as they did not do the 3mi loop, so tried sent her a text to let her know where I was and see if she had heard from Dave.
Next up was the downhill part of the crazy hill I climbed to get here. I knew I was the second to last 50k’er, but given that there were under 50 people signed up for this and only 12 women, I did not care! I just wanted to keep moving and finish!

Back into the paved sections and I could tell my walk breaks were getting a little longer now, but I really concentrated on walking faster. All the downhills were catching up and my quads were sore and glutes were tight, but constant forward motion was the name of the game. It’s amazing how much the mind can counteract the body when it just wants to stop!! Off the paved section meant I was headed back to the 5mi loop with the hills again! Uggghhhh . I definitely did not want to deal with it, but deal with it I had to! At one point, I grabbed a pretty decent sized branch that had fallen off a tree and used that like a walking pole to help myself moving up! Hip Flexors, calves, and Quads were screaming now! I could feel a tinge of calf cramps off and on, but made sure I stayed on track with my salt to keep those at bay.There was a lot of cursing and yelling at those hills and total frustration, but I knew I was closer to the end now and I just had to make it one hill at a time no matter what! Some point in here I crossed the 26.2mi distance and just realized this was the longest run I’ve ever done and I have now crossed over to Ultra distance (dark)side!! I was never so happy to see the and aid station as I was to see the guys at the finish of that 5mi loop. They told me I had about 3miles to go and no more hills! All I cared about was NO MORE HILLS!!!

I made my way down and started retracing my steps back through those same creek crossings! The water felt so wonderful, especially as I knew each crossing was one wet step towards the finish line. I knew I would be about 10mins behind the cut off even though I was trying to make my legs run as fast as I could. I was a little disappointed, but tried to tell myself despite the cut-off time, I would still finish!! I made one turn and through the windy paved road, I could see the finish line! Then I started hearing the cowbell and voices yelling out my name! It was such an awesome moment! I turned to cross over that last bridge and saw Lisa, Sophia, Hayley and Brian right there and as cheesy as this is going to sound, I was trying real hard to not tear up! I did it!! I finished my first 50k!

Time was 9:42:18 according to Garmin. While I did miss the cut-off, this is a finish for sure! Lots of people were saying that this was a tough course and while I may have cursed the crap out of those hills, I’m pretty thrilled to have finished a tough course for my first one!

I crossed the finish and immediately Lisa came over to make sure to get me what I needed and they all made me go sit in the creek to cool off my legs. Oh My a cold creek never felt so incredible!

Thank you so much to Lisa, Sophia, Hayley and Brian for cheering me in! Pretty sure I babbled a lot right after that..it was just kind of of a blur as I realized what I actually did! I finally got cleaned up and said bye to Brian and Hayley as they made their trek to KC and waited for Dave to come in. Once he was in, we cleaned up said Goodbye to Sophia and we made our way back to KC and hit home around 11pm.
Its been about 48hrs post race now and while I’m sore as hell, I’ve had time to digest it! The support I’ve had from by Hubby is amazing. He is my voice of reason and will always keep me in check to make sure I’m doing things right and keeping my life in balance! I know he was there with me in spirit, even if he was physically unable to be there! He was having the Open house and opening of their Indoor Soccer facility of what he’s been working so hard for the past few months. I’m so proud of him and all the hard work he did! It was an awesome weekend for the two of us! Love you Babe!

A Huge Thank you to my Hubby and Beka who kept motivating me through some timely texts. The support I’ve had through the training from all the Mud Babes and Trail Nerds has been incredible. Their adventures motivate me and helped me a see a side of running I would have never considered otherwise! You guys are Awesome! I know I could not have gotten here without all your help and support! I’ve got say thanks to Tony D. He was the first person to ever mention trail running to me and get me going down this road! Mud Babe Allison for all the great yoga sessions ‘cos I know they were key in keeping my flexible and loose!
Giant Thank You to Lisa and Dave! I could not have done this without you. You were super awesome to share their car, house and resources with me and Lisa…you are so awesome!! Crazy hugs! Could you have imagined that I’d be here..I still remember those first few steps on the trail with you and Rachael during hot 2010 summer and thinking no way I’d get this!! Who would have known!

Its sinking in…I’ve just stepped into the Ultra Running world! A few years ago, I would have never foreseen a Marathon let along an Ultra- Marathon. Looking back on my training for this race which I admit was less than great, I realized that while you can put in as much training as you can ultra distances take so much more than just physical training. Trust me this is not me saying that any race requires less mental motivation, as they all require that critical component. But when you are out literally in the middle of a pasture and you have no-one else except for a bunch of cows staring down at you, it’s easy to give up and get down on yourself and the mental strength is what keeps you going. Thank You Mom for giving me that trait! I told myself short of a major injury out on the course nothing would stop me from finishing and so giddily happy to report, nothing did !

50k Baby!!! Guess I can call myself an UltraMarathoner now right?!! Possibilities are Endless!!

Update as of 10/26/11: Just got official results which puts me at 9:40:15. I was the only one in my age group. I was the last of only 13 women to finish the race and I while I may be at the back...I FINISHED!!!

Happy Birthday to My Best Friend!

2011-10-19T07:13:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday!!!! To my best Friend, the best Supporter I have, my Sherpa and the man who makes me smile every day.

Happy Birthday to my awesome Hubby!! I hope you know how much you mean to me Babe! You support me in all my crazy and love me through it all , YES I know you tell me to take it easy and frown when I don’t and push myself more than I should, BUT I know you are always by my side and whatever I do, its always made better when I share it with you.

I’ve known you going on 10years now and I’m so very thankful to have some who makes me smile and laugh every day! This last year has been a challenging one and I’m so incredibly proud of you for toughing it out and hanging in there! I’m confident that the year ahead will be an absolutely wonderful and incredible one for you!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABE! I love you with all my heart!!
Cheers to a Wonderful Year ahead!

October Happenings!!

2011-10-06T15:47:00.000-05:00

Yes, its been a very busy October so far and it’s barely a week into this month! October always gets busy!

First off its Hubby’s Birthday month!! My October baby always ushers in some wonderful weather. We typically don’t go all out for birthdays, but try to do something special! We kicked off his month by Halloween Haunting the night away!

All this wonderful weather equals perfect running weather, so of course plenty of races this month! I’ve done one short one and then IN JUST 16 DAYS will be taking on my first 50k! I’m nervous as I’ve not logged a major long run as yet; but feel slightly better about this as my foot is feeling better and I’ve been able to log back to back 10milers and almost 10milers and worked on running on tired legs. So figuring it’s better than nothing and hoping my head won’t get the better of me in the ‘long run’!

But before both of those events, I have my annual technology conference. Last year we were in Ft.Lauderdale and I I was on my feet pretty much all week, but thankfully didn’t have a major race coming up! This year we are in New Orleans and I’ve got a week of conference work, about 8 days to recover from it and then off to the Ozarks for the 50k! I am hoping to squeeze in a few runs in while away, but pretty sure the tired legs part will happen regardless! Getting some workouts in while staying well hydrated and eating well will be a challenge! Yeah..didn’t quite plan that out very well! Oh well!!

Good luck to everyone running this weekend! Special shout out to all the Trails Nerds running Heartland 100/50miler this weekend and Hannah from More Than A Marathon taking on her first 100miler! Of course cannot forget Good Luck to my dear Fair Weather Runner who will be taking on Prairie Fire Half Marathon with a hip in recovery. Good Luck my friend and I’m sending you happy hippy thoughts!!
Wishing you all light feet and happy trails regardless of miles run!

I’ll be sure to have extra celebratory Hurricane (or two) in your honor this weekend! After all, I am supposed to stay hydrated right?!!!

Cheers to a successful conference and Laissez les bons temps rouler!!

Sandrat Trail Race and September Training Recap

2011-10-03T14:29:00.001-05:00

Hmmm…where to start?

Let’s recap first since its been..well about a month since I last blogged. Its been a busy month with life and work, but my training did take step back.

I had some foot pain after the North Face Challenge Half Marathon which I ran late August. It wasn’t really bothering me the week after the race, But I felt something was wrong about 8 days after. The bottom of my right foot would get really tight along the outer edge and underneath my foot close to my heel. While I could run, the next day it would get pretty tight and painful. I iced and rolled and used the little nubby ball and nothing! So finally, I decided to go see a podiatrist and get to the source quickly. Well…long story short it was an issue with a tendon that ran under the Plantar Fascia which pretty much was pissed at me! It was likely the switch in shoes and the pavement pounding that did me in . That’s the bad news!

Good news is that a cortisone shot (which I didn’t even feel going on, but hurt like a b*!#h for two weeks after) and a week off running later, I was able to get back out there and start building back again. Problem was I had about a month to go to Dogwood and I was seriously lacking in the long run department! I had one less week since I would be out of town at a Conference and no trails! On top of all that I lost a weekend to being sick! My longest since the half marathon was about 10miles on trail..Yikes!!! I was seriously considering if I could do this?!! The foot was feeling better. I alternated between my Saucony Peregrines and Mizuno Cabrakans (w/orthotics once again) in an effort to give my foot some support and that seems to be helping. Lots of icing and yoga mixed in certainly helps as well! 4 weeks out from when I toe the line at Dogwood I started a revised plan which instead of running long, emphasized running back to back day so I get my legs used to running tired!

So last week following the revised plan I logged 41miles…without doing a run longer than 10miles! The last 9.3miles were run at the Sandrat Trail Race held on the River trails in Lawrence, Kansas on Sunday!

Running the Sandrat Trail Race was kind of a last minute decision..well Lisa and I decided Friday to be exact. I had promised the hubby that we would go do the Halloween Haunt at Worlds of Fun the night before. I knew it would be a LOT of walking and a very late night! But eventually decided that this would be a more miles on legs and more miles on very tired legs at that..so all good training! So my running partner Lisa and I were signed up! Of course Sunday morning came around and I was not sure how this would go! Hubby and I easily spent 6plus hours having fun and when I got home my feet were pretty tired! That coupled with about 4hrs of sleep would be an interesting combination to attempt a trail race a little shy of 9.5miles!

I carpooled with Lisa to the race location about 40mins away. Bagel eaten along the way would fuel me for a little awhile at least! I decided to wear the Cabrakans on this one.

Lisa and I Pre-Race! It was a pretty chilling morning with temps in the mid 40s!

Mudbabes and Mr. Mudbabe, Danny of course, Kicking it up pre-race!

We started off about a little under a mile on the roads and then headed into the River trails. These trails are far less technical than the Shawnee Mission Park trails we regularly run. They are sandy with some hidden roots which can get you and pretty decent short rolling up/down section as it was built for mountain biking! We kept a steady pace and incorporated walk breaks when needed and had lots of great conversation!! Always a Plus!

About 4miles into it, Lisa’s phone began to alert her that her office servers were down. She runs her own IT business so this is pretty critical! So we ran and power walked so she could make sure things were being looked at while she was out. Before we knew it we were at the aid station again which would be Mile 6! We were chatting and distracted by the server issue that we did not feel those miles go by. Of course this does mean I would recommend a work emergency to keep you pre-occupied .

We picked it back up and kept moving at some points wondering is we got lost..but then we kept seeing the orange marker flags and the mile markers which were really nice to see!! A little past Mile 8, Mudbabes Sophia and Erica came out after finishing and ran back to the finish line with us. A little more road and we were DONE!!

Finish Time: 1:59:20!! Sure not fast by most runners standards, But it was a great run and I figured not bad at all for running after 6hrs of walking and 4hrs of sleep!! Post race brekky with a few Mudbabes and we headed home. I felt pretty good about the race! Its been sometime since I ran a trail race and it was good to get one in headed into Dogwood. I was tired, but considering it all I think we had a pretty good time considering we walked a decent chunk in the middle…and managed to keep a decent pace for us! Great run, great weather and a great running partner…now that’s a great race morning!!

Let’s see what this week brings….Happy Trails everyone!

Over the River and through the Woods…

2011-09-02T15:58:00.001-05:00

“Over the River and through the Woods to Grandmother’s house we go”…except in my case I will plan on going “Over the the River and through the Woods” to my first 50k finish .

It’s been two days since I officially registered for the Dogwood Canyon 50k Trail Run in Lampe, Missouri. I’ve been targeting this race for my first 50k since the Lunar Trek plan fell through, but the fact that I’m actually attempting to go BEYOND the 26.2mi marathon distance is getting just a little scary! I would have never thought that I would be attempting a Marathon, let alone an Ultra distance and here I am trying to visualize my first 50k finish line!! CRAZY!

Now that I am done with the North Face Challenge Half its back to trail training for me. The weather looks to be cooling off a little just in time as well, Yay!! The key thing, of course other than keeping my head in the game, is training for the distance and the hills. As you can see it’s not a walk in the park and I knew that going in. Its going to be a lot of hill repeat, rinse, hill repeat, rinse . I looked at an elevation chart from 2010 and here is it. The website does state this year’s course is a little different, but really..what are the chances of less hills?!!

Dogwood Canyon 2010 course elevation chart….

…..compared to the North Face Challenge Road half marathon I ran last weekend.

See what I mean?! I see hill repeats…and plenty of them in the next 7 weeks!!! Holy Crap 7 weeks!!!! 7 weeks of piling on the miles, 7 weeks of wanting to eat like crazy, 7 weeks of trying not worry about every little pain…but failing miserably, 7 weeks of ice baths and dates with foam roller and stick!!

Yes, I’m nervous as hell! Yes, I’m worried about how my legs will hold up!! and Yes, its going to a crazy 7 weeks!!! BUT I just need to focus on that finish line and trust that I WILL get there!!! Legs don’t fail me now! One foot in front of the other and keep moving right?!!

It just got real!

2011-08-31T13:13:00.001-05:00

Yep…guess it’s official now!

North Face Challenge Inaugural Road Half Marathon Race Report

2011-08-28T20:44:00.001-05:00

I must admit, I was pretty nervous going into this race. I’ve had lead legs this past week and a half and my calf muscles have been pretty tweaky. I did one test run on Wednesday and cross trained like crazy with daily yoga to help. Anyway let’s get to it!

The Inaugural North Face Endurance Challenge Kansas City weekend started off with the 50k, Marathon and Marathon relay on Saturday, followed by the Half Marathon 10k and 5k on Sunday. This was the first North Face Challenge race done purely on road. It was a warm and humid Saturday, but all my friends who ran the 50k and Marathon killed it! Congrats to Hannah, Sophia, Erica, Wael, Brent, Shawn, Sherrie, Ashley D, Brian B. who did amazing in the heat, humidity and crazy hills! You guys rocked it! Glad I got to see several of you. I picked up my race bib, shirt and arm warmers! Yeah…pretty awesome swag considering I used a Groupon for this and got in for $30!!!

I got plenty of sleep and was well rested. Always get nervous time on race day, but usually goes away by the time I get to the race. My awesome hubby got up at the butt crack of dawn to take me over to downtown Kansas City. Start temps were in the 60s, so it was pretty nice and although it warmed up towards the end, it was a nice day for a run through KC. We parked about a mile out from the start which was perfect as the walk got my legs moving. I know it’s only a half, but I opted to take my hydration pack as I am just so used to running with it now. We got there with about 10mins to spare, just enough time for one last pee stop and say hello to Hayley and Ashley. Always great to see my Mudbabe friends

Lined at the back as I had pretty much decided it was going to be a training run for my A race coming up in 8 weeks, the Dogwood Canyon Trail 50k. So just needed to get through and not bust anything up. Off I go…

Now onto the Good, the bad and the Ugly. Let’s start off with the Ugly shall we?!

The Ugly – Worse Half Marathon time to date I almost didn’t want to put this out there, BUT I ran and finished and will own my time good or bad and the lessons that came with it! Chip time 3:04:53…yeah sucky I know!!

The Bad – The Hills zapped me My 5k split was pretty decent. Legs were doing well, calves were good. Around the 5k timing mat my right shin was starting to be a little tight. It stayed that way until a little before mile 5 where guess it decided to just go away…thankfully!! Towards the last 3miles, the outside of my left foot got stiff..I’ve been icing it since I got home. I’m sure nothing some yoga won’t resolve. The middle miles were a whole lot of uphill which was my main issue. I did pretty good pace on my flats and downhill, and power walked the uphill. Guess I used the race to practice my power walking. I managed around a 15min/mile and even under on some uphill…but it took a toll on time for sure!

The Good – Yes, there is good despite the sucktastic time!
First calves held up on a very hilly course. Going into this race, I was a little nervous that I had done busted something, but the fact that I was able to get through with no major pain confirms I’m ok and more importantly ok to keep training for the 50k!
Great volunteers! It was great to see Ethan and Ashley D. at the Crown Center aid station. It’s great to see friendly faces when you are struggling and feel the love. They called out to me while I was coming in and it was much needed! Thanks Guys!
First official race since switching to my minimalist shoes, the Saucony Kinvaras. Now not sure if these will hold of a full marathon, but did pretty well for a half. I know I could have do great on a flat course!
Runner bonding and getting to know fellow runners is always great! I chatted with two runners who I ran with off and on with and we just tried to motivate each other through the insane hills! The last mile or so I chatted with a runner from Springfield who was looking at doing the Dogwood Canyon 15k. We came through the finish together. Tough courses are always a bonding experience!!

So what I did learn today! I need to work on my hills, much more than I have been! Ogg hill at SMP and I have some quality time planned in the next few weeks! Dogwood is in the Ozarks and it won’t be pretty if I don’t train hills! This was my biggest issue today. I miss the trails. While I do need to mix in roads since I do have two road full coming up in the 6 months, running trails are so much nicer It’s time to get back!

It was a fun day despite the poor time! Experiencing Kansas City on foot was kind of fun! Things look so much different when running through the city I’ve driven so much in! I would have loved to see more crowd support, but I think that may come with more promotion and publicity in future years. I don't remember seeing anything on TV about this race, that would have been nice given that it’s a series of races and its the it’s their first time in KC. The course marshals were great and very encouraging!
The KCPD did an amazing job with traffic and had every intersection covered. I tried to say thanks to as many officers as I could. Couldn’t have been fun waiting for us back of the pack runners to come through! All in all..a great event, loved the cold ice baths and cold ice sponges at the end! Nice shirt that I got screen printed and its crazy soft! Hopefully I can update this blog with some course pictures once I get them.

I think there were many PRs had, sadly in my case a PW, but tough runs are a learning experience and that’s what I’m taking away from this. I know North Face will be back next year and I will be back for sure! Thanks to everyone who gave me awesome words of encouragement and reminded me that I did finish and that this will just make me appreciate the good runs all the more! Now onto tackle more hills and continue training for my first 50k! 8 weeks and Counting

Lead Legs go away PLEASE!!

2011-08-20T21:23:00.001-05:00

Is it end of August already? Tomorrow it’ll be one week to North Face Kansas City Challenge Half Marathon and I have to admit I’m a little nervous. Its been since Oklahoma City, my first half marathon that I’ve run a road race and right now my legs are feeling a little off

So what have I been doing? Building miles of course. Running this summer has been rough with the high humidity and high temps. Since I have a 45min commute daily back and forth, morning runs are out except for weekends, so its been evening runs and heat training! I’ve mixed in yoga and treadmill runs to prevent burning out…but its been a tough summer and I think my body and my legs are feeling it. I put in my longest run of 14miles in the Kinvaras last weekend. Legs felt tired, but ok, until I ran the next day when the lead legs took me out! I actually hit the trails twice mid-week and slogged it out, BUT it was a tough running week with some achy legs. Really hoping that with some TLC they will be nice to me at North Face next Sunday.

This will be my first race in Minimalist shoes. My legs have slowly gotten used to running in the Saucony Kinvaras, but I definitely noticed lower legs, especially calves and Achilles get tight if I skimp out on yoga and post run stretches. So plan for the week is lots of icing and some quality time with Mr. Mark Blanchard and Blissology with Mr. Eoin Finn who I was introduced to me by yoga inspiration Allison!! Yeah, she rocks yoga even with a busted toe! That’s how this Mud Babe rolls! Thanks Allison

I only have to finish 13.1mi on road after all. just need to draw my motivation from everyone who ran this weekend! Shout out to all those who ran Pikes Peak Ascent today and those following it up with the Ascent and Descent tomorrow. Of course, cannot forget Leadville Trail 100 Runners Laurie and Ace who are rocking it out there! You guys rock!

Happy Trails!

Mud+Fire+Hills+Heat = Warriors Unite!!!

2011-08-05T23:00:00.000-05:00

Hmmm….what can I say about July! One word HOT!! For most of July and a first few days of August, Kansas City area (and pretty much most of the region) was in the middle of a never-ending heat wave. Here are some numbers:

Streak - As of August 3rd, we had 20 straight days of 90F+ degree weather with heat indices pretty much in the triple digits most days.
Record – KC had it’s hottest day in 25 years on August 2 where the downtown temp hit 107F!!! I did happen to be outside that evening, just not running :)
Hot Run - Had my hottest run of the season at a steamy 103F..and pretty sure heat index of like 110F!!! Heat Training at its best!
Serious Sweat – Lost 2.5lbs after a 5miler at 98F!

Great time to be in training right?!! BUT, the show must go one. There was a mix of treadmill and road running through July. All completed in either my Saucony Kinvara’s or Vibram KSOs. There were solid runs, but also some missed ones :( I renewed my gym membership and so its back to strength training as well. The best news is that I am still running strong in the minimalist shoes and have no shin pain! Yes, there have been tight calf and Achilles, but that is when I tend to slack off on stretching post run…my bad :( I’ve worked up to 8miles with the Kinvara’s and 5.5mi with the Vibrams. I need a few more solid long runs to get ready for the upcoming North Face Half Marathon on August 28. Its been a very long time since my last road race, but its a stepping race towards the October 50k!

The best part of July was of course WARRIOR DASH!!! This was the first time the Warrior Dash race was brought to Kansas City and it was a total blast! Fun team, crazy obstacles, creeks, fire and of course MUD…how could it not be awesome!! I wish I could just go over each step of it…but that would take way to much time!! So instead let me share the YouTube video teammate Brady created! Thanks Brady, it’s great to be able to relive it all!!

And of course…what would a report be without pictures!

THE BEFORE and THE ANTICIPATION

Chip’d and Bib’d

Hubby and Me

THE AFTER and THE AWESOME!!

Coming through the Finish Line

Kelly and me post Finish Line and heading towards my Hubby

Give me a Kiss Baby :)

Of course gotta have me some Warrior Beer!!

THE BEST BEFORE AND AFTER EVER!!

Summer Training

2011-07-17T14:51:00.000-05:00

See this 10-day forecast below. Now just add over 50% humidity, full on sunshine and barely any wind to each of those numbers and viola, you have 10 (and counting) straight days with excessive heat warnings. Then mix in some summer running and it can be a recipe for some serious heat illness if you are not careful!

Of course, perfect time to start 50k training right?!! :) Yep, my training for the Dogwood Canyon Trail 50k which will be my first Ultra distance started this last week! I keep telling myself, if I can run in this heat and survive, I should be in good shape when the weather cools off. Of course this doesn’t make it any easier in this tropical rainforest like conditions. But it is summer in the Central Plains and although it seems to be unending days of insane heat and humidity, the training must go one…just need to be really smart about it and make sure I keep a good stock of electrolytes on hand!

Until this point in my short running life, I’ve always stuck to a 3-day a week plan. I realized when I ran my first marathon, my legs needed more miles. So this time around, I’ve added one more day of running to the plan. With my current schedule, I am also doing at least one day of yoga a week, two when I can and with reactivating my gym membership, strength training is back in too! Once I started trail running last summer, I rarely to never hit road for training runs and did all trails. This time I’m changing that up. I’m signed up for the North Face Endurance Challenge Half Marathon on August 28. So the first 6 weeks leading up to the HM there will be one trail running day a week..maybe two and the rest on paved trails to get my legs used to hitting the harder surface! Definitely planning on hill training, my legs need to learn to handle hills efficiently. Once the HM is done, I will switch back to trails for the next 6-7 weeks leading up to the 50k. The biggest change will be my shoes. My summer experiment in changing shoes has gone very well so far. For the last 5 weeks or so, I’ve been running only in either my Saucony Kinvara’s or Vibram KSOs. This last Saturday, my first ‘long’ run of 8miles were in the Kinvara’s and I’m happy to report since I started, its been 5 weeks of NO SHIN PAIN!! It’s an absolutely wonderful feeling!! I have one trail run with the Peregrines when it was pretty slick and muddy, it did very well, but I need more trail miles on the shoes to see how they are do! But I’m very hopeful and that one run had no shin issues either.

Like it or not, my body will have to get used to running in this insane heat. Lots of hydration and the right kind of hydration and really listening to what my body needs will be critical. We invested in a juicer about two weeks ago and I’ve been juicing a lot of fruits and veges and looking forward to doing more and more and hope that will provide me with right kind of energy as well. Training in this summer heat is not only challenging your body, but also challenging mental training for running and that’ll help me when I go for that 50k! So bring it!

To those experiencing this crazy summer heat, how are you handling your runs?

A Reunion Race and Weekend updates!

2011-06-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

I hadn’t mentioned this on the blog before as I didn’t want to put it out there until I knew for sure..but I got the confirmation email this morning and it looks like I’m in for the Chevron Houston Marathon on January 15, 2012. About 2 weeks back my cousin, Manik and I texted back and forth and I told him I’d put in for the full if he put his name in for the Half, which would be his first. Manik lives in Houston, so this was an easy choice for him and since its been almost 8yrs since I saw him and his wife Tiruni, I figured this was the perfect chance to go see him and support him regardless of whether or not I got in.

The lottery was held this past weekend and I’m beyond excited as we BOTH GOT IN!!! What a perfect cousin reunion at the races! I cannot wait!! This is the 40th running of the Houston Marathon and it should be loads of fun. Any bloggers out there running Houston?

While I’m a little nervous about running a large road event, I’m super, super excited about being able to share this experience with my cousin. He ran his first 5k on April 23rd, which coincidentally happened to be the date of my first marathon as well. It was a sign that we had to run a race together! He did so awesome at the 5k, I have no doubt that he will do great on his first Half!! I’m also looking forward to getting the opportunity to watch the Olympic Trails as well! Its going to be a great start to 2012!!

In other race news, I have also signed up for the North Face Endurance Challenge Half Marathon that is coming up on August 28. Typically North Face Challenge races are on trails, but they are attempting to break into the road race arena and KC is one of the first to get one of their road races. There will be a 50k, Marathon and Marathon relay Saturday, August 27th and Half Marathon, 10k and 5k on Sunday. I got a great Groupon deal which I used to sign up for the Half Marathon for only $32…total score!!!

As part of the promotion for this upcoming road race, this past weekend we had none other than the Ultramarathon Man himself, Dean Karnazes pay Kansas City a visit. He did a few fun runs Saturday morning and I along with fellow Mudbabe Allison decided to go check it out. It rained early morning, but by the time the 5k run started it had stopped and turned out to be a very nice morning for a run. It was 5k of concrete which my legs are definitely not used to, but we ran half with a Pacer and half with Dean and it was a nice easy pace and good conversation. He is so incredibly nice and easy to talk to!! Note to self, make sure to stick with Pacer when doing the half marathon!

Pre-Run Intro from Dean K.

Hoping to have some of his running mojo rub off on me :)

After the fun run and pictures, Allison, Mommy to-be Rachael and I headed to grab some pizza for lunch at which point Allison and I needed some Mimosas (the price for a carafe was too good to pass up) to complete the afternoon!! Of course 3 champagne glasses of Mimosas each and we needed to walk it a off a little and headed to watch the Dragon Boat races at Brush Creek at the Country Club Plaza in KC. Who knew Dragon boat racing could be aggressive as we watched one boat tip over after crashing to another…Fun times to be had.

This was a tamer race…the other one was way more interesting to watch!

A fun Saturday with two of my favorite Mudbabes and a nice short road run in my Kinvara to start the weekend off right!!

On the training update, so far Summer experiment is going well. I’ve logged runs upto 3miles each in the Vibram KSOs as well as the Saucony Kinvaras with no shin pain. Yes, the calf and lower legs are working hard, but its a good soreness and nothing like my shin pain in the past. So I’m very happy so far! I also got my Saucony Peregrines which will see some trail time this week. Hoping that they will follow the example of their road cousin and treat me right!! I start training back next week for the October 50k! So hoping to really work on form and stay injury free as I train for my fall races! In the meantime, happy trails everyone!

Summer Transitions

2011-06-20T16:15:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, June 21 is officially the first day of Summer…but the temps in June so far have definitely gotten ahead of the game! It’s been a hot and humid month so far, which while not surprising sure makes me glad I’m not in the middle of 50k training right now. I’m also well into my Summer of Experiments!

As I mentioned in my post two weeks ago, I postponed my 50k attempt in an effort to work on what seems to be chronic shin issues. I decided it was time to change some things and have been working on my form with the help of the Vibram Five Finger KSOs.

Before I bought the ‘feeties’ as I like to call them, I did a lot of research on why these help better form and what the best way to use them were. Each resource I went to reiterated the same thing..build miles slowly so your feet and legs can adapt to the new form. Its been about two and half weeks since I bought them. The first 2 days were just walking after which I added 0.5mi every other day and built up to a 1.5mi run on paved trails as of this last weekend. The best part so far…NO SHIN PAIN!!! I couldn’t even remember the last time I went 1.5mi on paved with no shin pain…its totally wonderful!! I can definitely feel it working my lower legs muscles and feet more, but so far no major pain or stiffness. I think part of that is because my lower legs have gotten somewhat stronger this last year with trail running and therefore have held up pretty well to this new experience. I’m also working more on stretching and strengthening calf muscles and making sure I foam roll after these runs. I definitely notice the difference in form as there is no heel striking. I run mostly forefoot/midfoot on these and have obviously reduced the strain on my shins. I’ve noticed I can actually run a little faster pace as well, although I’m being conservative and only focusing on building some steady, pain free miles in them and not on speed at this time. I hope that I can add on another 0.5mi this week and by the time I get back into training early July be at 3mi Vibram run.

While working on my form with the help of the Vibrams, I have been researching some new shoes as well. It’s unlikely that I will be doing all my running in Vibrams, so I wanted to find a pair of road and trail shoes that will help me work and keep my form as well. After looking around and talking to several people, I went with Sauconys. I got them from Road Runner Sports as they have the 90-day Wear’em and Love’em Guarantee for VIP members. Totally worth the extra $1.99 I paid for this year to get that peace of mind, discounts and free shipping!! I got a heck of deal on them, love it! After a lot of review and blog reading, I went with the light as air, Saucony ProGrid Kinvara 2 (picture on screen left) and the ProGrid Peregrines (picture on screen right and Runners World Editor’s Choice Shoe).

The Peregrines are backordered and should come in later this week. The Kinvara’s however arrived last Thursday. Since it was raining pretty much all day Thursday, I waited until Friday evening to take these out for their first run. I met Allison and we went out for a 1.5mil loop out on the Sprint campus. All paved with a few rolling hills mixed in for good measure. Allison in her Vibram KSOs and me in my new Kinvara’s. The first thing I notice right off is how light they are. The site states they are 6.8oz for a Women’s size 8, so guessing my size 9 is about the same which puts it about 3oz lighter than my current Mizuno pair. While running, my feet felt light and I could tell I was doing more of a forefoot to midfoot strike similar to the Vibrams. Except right now, the bottom of my feet had more cushioning than the Vibrams. The Kinvara’s have a 4mm difference between the heel and forefoot when compared to the 12mm on most shoes and this seems to be the key in helping reduce heel striking. Regardless of or due to all that, 1.5mi run loop and 1.5mi walk loop later NO SHIN PAIN!! We could both definitely feel it in our calf muscles, but that was likely because we finally hit the pavement and one with some nice rolling hills. The calf muscles were getting a good workout. Good news is no unusual soreness the next day. I had two back to back days of 1.5mi in Vibrams on paved and 1.5mi with the Kinvaras on paved and no major pains or soreness…especially on the shins!! That seemed like step forward to me :)

While the next few weeks and miles run will tell me if this experiment is a success or not, I’m very pleased with my Vibram runs and my first run in the Kinvaras so far. I think they are good tools in my road to better form and have given me some hope for being able to run without chronic pains. Hopefully I will be able to get some miles in with the Peregrines soon as well for an all around comparison. The trails will be interesting as they will need to be pretty rugged while being light. More to follow on that.

My hope is that I am able to rotate between the Vibrams and the Saucony’s on road and trail to build miles towards some fall races races I have my sights set on. Time and miles will tell I guess…Stay Tuned!

P.S. If you are wondering, I’ve finished Week 2 of the 100 Pushup Challenge and have worked up to total of 60 with 60sec breaks in the middle :) So far my Summer experiments are going pretty darn well…here’s hoping for continued strength and pain free running!!

Happy Trails!

One Hundred Push Up Challenge

2011-06-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

I did say I was planning a Summer of Experimenting right? Very badly in need of some core work at this time! I’ve been mixing in p90X Ab Ripper..but wanted something to work towards to keep me accountable. Enter the One Hundred Pushup Challenge!

The goal of this challenge is to complete 100 consecutive pushups. I saw a few weeks back that Jesse at Run To the Border had started this and checked into it. Then I forgot about it, but came across it again last week. I read through it and seems like a good goal to strive to! I did my initial test over the weekend and figured I can do 10 ‘good form’ pushups or about 15 ‘alternative pushups’. You can also do Knuckle push ups, Bench push ups or Wall push ups to build core strength. The different push ups are outlined on the website for the challenge. There are also several apps to that can be downloaded to most Smart Phones to keep track of the sets easily.

I completed Week 1 Day 2 yesterday and can definitely feel it in my core. I like the challenge because you can do it just about anywhere. A strong core is key to god running form and this summer its all about working toward good running form!

So if you need to charge up your core work..give it shot and let me know what you think. Or if you have already started how it going so far?

My Summer Experiment!

2011-06-06T18:00:00.000-05:00

There is no mistaking summer is here !!! The heat is on and it makes long training run tough on even the best of runners! So I’ve decided to not race this summer and take some time to experiment a little.

First, I’m postponing my 50k attempt that was planned for July 15. My mileage is no where to what it should be and I have a very busy summer at work planned and it is a high priority. My chronic shin issues have also cropped up again. While it seems to be better on trails, the second I hit paved my shins are not happy at all :( So this summer, I’m going to spend time stripping down my form and reevaluating footwear. All the better to be in shape to complete any race be it paved or trail and move into Ultra distances. I’ve cut back on miles which with this heat won’t too much of a problem. And since I’m not in training right now, I get back to building a good solid base.

Next, I had a gait analysis done and the source of my shin pain seems to be my form. It is more prominent when I run paved as I tend to over reach with my foot and have a longer stride. On the trails my stride is a little shorter, but I still reach with my toes although the softer surface is a little more forgiving. I’ve been reading about ChiRunning and it seems to make a lot of sense. I want to work toward a more mid foot strike and work on some natural running elements to help resolve my shin pain. To that affect, I’ve invested in a pair of Vibram Five Fingers that will be rotated into my workouts.

My friend and yoga buddy Allison and I went for a 1.5mi walk in them post yoga last Saturday morning and while she had hers for a week, that was the first time I took them out. I was recommended the KSO model. It was definitely a whole new way of walking and very much like when I walk barefooted at home. The plan is to walk for the first week or so and then slowly add in very, very short runs.

The key here is keep them short and not to go all out. While I know my lower legs are much stronger than they were a year ago prior to trail running, Vibram walking and running definitely works muscles that may not get used as much when wearing shoes. I’ve reached out to Peter at RunBlogger for some advice and he reiterated that short runs when starting are critical for a good experience. RunBlogger has been great when looking at all the different elements of minimalist running. Many of my friends who have had great success with Vibrams were also great resources in this process. I will post more on them once I have a few more workouts in them.

My plan is to work on form, strengthen shins, calves, quads, glutes and core, and maintain flexibility with regular Yoga. I’m still wearing my Mizuno Cabrakans for trail, but am hopeful that I can move into a more neutral shoe as I get stronger in my lower legs and have better form. While soreness and muscle fatigue is expected, chronic issues are not something I want to deal with moving into the Ultra distances! Therefore despite all the distance goals I have and itching to get under my belt, my primary and main goal is and always will be to stay injury free. So this summer it’s going to be time to strip down, reevaluate and do some experimenting of the running kind!

So tell me have you made the switch over to minimal shoes, why and how is it going for you?

Happy Feet and Happy Trails Everyone!!

Heat Training Anyone??

2011-05-11T14:34:00.000-05:00

It’s only May and some of you still may even have a little snow on the ground, but I was very quickly reminded that those of us in Kansas City and in the Midwest are in for some heat pretty soon!

This was yesterday’s 7-day forecast…

And then we have today’s…

Thankfully it does seem like things will ‘cool’ down a little and by the weekend it’ll will be more spring-like, but running in upper 80s and high humidity this week reminded me very quickly that cold weather running is no more. I better start getting ready for some serious heat training!!

Running in the heat can be dangerous and fatal if not approached correctly. Since we are all headed into the hot summer months, I thought a refresher on this might be helpful. I took these tips from an Active.com website. Full article is here.

Run early in the morning when possible
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate..but watch what you drink
Acclimate carefully
Wear Light and loose fitting clothing
Sunscreen is your friend
Take care of the noggin’
Slow to start and reduce speed
Head toward water
Cool off
Bring your own ‘Camel’bak (get it camel..ok..bad pun)
Heed heat warning (look below)

One of the things I’ve learned from our trail running group is to make sure to put ice cubes in your hydration system. Oh and ALWAYS carry your own water!! If carrying a water bottle, freeze half and then top off before your run so water stays cold. Tying a bandanna or handkerchief soaked in cold water around your neck or having it under your cap will help as well. And make sure you are getting enough electrolytes in. I sweat a lot when I run and if I’m not careful leg cramps become a huge issue! So use Hammer Heed mixed in with water to make sure my electrolyte supply is good.

Running short distance in extreme heat and humidity is tough enough without adding Ultra distances into the mix. I found this these two article in UltraRunning.com that provides some great information on anyone looking to jump into Ultra which means longer training runs more often and running through the hottest times of the day more often.

So why am I even talking about Ultras??!! Yep..apparently after one marathon and I feel like I’m ready to take my first Ultra distance. I totally blame this on the Trail Nerds and Mud Babes!! :) Hanging out with Ultra Runners just make you totally want to get into it and they are so not shy on the peer pressure..wait I mean absolute encouragement of course :) !! I know I only have one marathon done, but by the time I run my first 50k, I hope to have at least three 20mi + training runs completed. With at least one being a marathon distance.

So on July 15, along with fellow Mudbabe Lisa and hopefully superstar Hannah from More Than a Marathon, I hope to complete Lunar Trek 50k distance. I better get my run on!!

Anyone else up for a run with some friends under the night sky, stars and a Full Moon??

Happy Mother’s Day Ammi, You are My Inspiration!

2011-05-07T20:09:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day. A special day to celebrate all the Mother’s out there, but mostly my own. Just to clarify, ‘Amma’ or ‘Ammi’ as my brother and I call our mom is the Sinhalese word for Mother.

My mom is my Inspiration and my Role model! She raised two kids and built a life from almost nothing. As a single mom, she started from scratch, taught herself the basics of business management and built a business from the ground up so she could provide my brother and me a better life with wonderful opportunities. I would never be where I am today if not for the sacrifices she made for us!

My Mom and Step-dad!! A love that transcended language!! He didn’t speak any English and she didn’t speak any German when they met. They’ve been married for more than 10 years now.

My mom with my brother and sis-in-law! We are very overdue for a family picture :(

We almost lost her in 2005 over complications from a routine surgery, but her strength and courage carried her through! People tell me as I am more and more like her every day and that is a best compliment I can get! If I have half her strength and resolve I know I will be just fine through anything life can throw at me.

My mom and step dad live have lived in Germany for a few years now. She fell in love, moved to a new country and started a new life…sounds familiar?!! In my case yes, the love came later, but I am my mother’s daughter and guess followed in her footsteps. And so very proud of it! Because of curveballs life has thrown in the last few years, I have been unable to visit my mom since 2005. But I know it’ll happen soon! We are way overdue for a family reunion.

My mom, step-dad, Hubby and myself during 2005 trip to Germany. Its been way too long!

Out of sight, never out of mind or heart!

Happy Mother’s Day Ammi! You have inspired me, challenged me, supported me and loved me! My only hope is that I make you proud in everything I do!! I LOVE YOU!

April Recap! Not in Miles, but in Moments!!

2011-05-01T14:49:00.000-05:00

April..oh April!! What can I possibly say about the best month EVER!!! Since I’ve already recapped my birthday celebrations and the first part of the month and also my First Marathon, I won’t go into details about those. What I do want to very proudly share is that I’m now a Naturalized Citizen of the United States :)

This was one of those big life moments that I alluded to at the beginning of the year, but was not ready to share until it was all official. After years of waiting and 5 months of processing last Friday in front of a Judge, my family and friends, me and 88 other soon-to-be fellow-countrymen took the Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America!

My emotions were high and I had to hold back the lump in my throat and tears that were starting to well up as I pledged allegiance to the flag. The Star Spangled Banned which I had heard hundreds of times before took on a whole new meaning as I placed my hand over my heart and recited the words for the very first time! For those of you who are born here, don’t ever take for granted this wonderful country you and I call home. It is not perfect and it has its faults, BUT the freedoms and rights we all enjoy as Citizens of this country are something we should all be very proud of and cherish every day! I’m just so incredibly happy to be able to weave my own little part into this incredible tapestry!

To all my friends who were there to share and celebrate this moment with me, THANK YOU and I LOVE YOU ALL!! You have always made me feel like I truly belonged here and am one of you! I never felt out of place or like I was outsider and that is because of all of you!!

To Keith, Sharon, Edna, Cameron, Christine, Connor and Cennagh, my In-Laws who welcomed me with arms wide open into the family, THANK YOU and I LOVE YOU!! If I could only tell you how much your love, support and lives have impacted my decision, I would! Your lives and experiences have carved this path for me!!

To my Mom and Brother who have supported me in this decision, I LOVE YOU and MISS YOU so much! You always remind me that my Sri Lankan roots, culture and heritage are an integral part of me and its something I will always cherish and share when I have a family some day!!! I only wish that you were there to share it with me, but know that You are both always there in Spirit!!

My most cherished THANK YOU and LOVE YOU is for my wonderful hubby!! None of this would be possible without your love, support and faith in me! This is a very, very special moment for us both and while I’m happy for me, I’m happier for you as I know how much you wanted this for me!! I can’t wait to see what life has in store for us now!!!

Post Marathon Thoughts and HUGE day is Almost Here!!

2011-04-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

OK..first let’s get to the post race thoughts! Its been a few days after my first Marathon…I’ve had some time to digest what happened and come away with some lessons learned.

Be careful with Diet. I think I did have some nerves, but also had something else going on. I didn’t really make too many changes in my diet, but may have eaten more Greek Yoghurt and drank more Gatorade than usual. Maybe that was not a good idea.
Something to REMEMBER for next time!

Hydrate, Hydrate and Hydrate. Although I thought I stayed hydrated through the entire run, I realized at the end of the run I never had to pee. I finished 3/4 of my 2liters of water and at least 4 small cups of ginger ale and one small cup of coke…and nothing! Maybe a sign that I was dehydrated?
Something to WORK on for next time!

Running Hills are still a challenge for me and was made worse with my lack of fuel/energy. I need to do more hills and take them head on and not shy away! Which also means I need to work on knee, glutes, hamstring..well overall leg strength!
Something to WORK on for next time!

Core work. I totally slacked on that :( Gotta get my Core on!
Definitely something to WORK on for next time!

Miles. While my first Marathon training cycle went well, I know I need to put more miles on my legs, BUT do it systematically so I won’t injure myself in the process! Especially key if I want to do longer races..hint, hint!!
Something to WORK on for next time!

And Speaking of next time! I’ve been wondering what next? Now that my first ‘m’ is done..where do I go from here? I’ve got some ideas…but that’s for another day!!

The next big day for me and my family is tomorrow!!! One week post first Marathon…I take an EVEN bigger step! I take Oath as a Citizen of the United State of America tomorrow :) This was something I knew I would always do and last November I filed the necessary paperwork to get things moving. Five months to the day later (yes, they did say it would take 5 months) I will standing in front of a Judge, my family and friends and pledging my allegiance and loyalty to this wonderful country I have come to call home. If putting into words the emotions of finishing my first marathon was tough, I cannot begin to imagine how I am going to feel as I put my hand over my heart and take the oath tomorrow. All I know is that It is going to me an amazingly surreal experience and I CANNOT WAIT!!!

Free State Trail Marathon Race Report!!!

2011-04-26T16:42:00.000-05:00

a.k.a My First Marathon Race report :) Where to start???…..Oh and its a long one!!! :)

At the start of 2011, I decided I was ready try the marathon distance! There were plenty of options to choose from from, but the biggest decision was whether I wanted it to be road or trail. Once I set my mind on trail, it was easy…Free State Trail Marathon here I come! 16 weeks of training later It was here!

The day before, I had taken a half day at work, picked up my packet, done the usual day before long run routine that I typically do.

I was doing pretty well…until about around dinner time. My stomach had been out of sorts for a day or two, but I was starting to feel really queasy while sitting down for a pasta dinner. I managed to have bread, some pasta and chalked it up to nerves. Finished up dinner, felt a little better, we had to pick up some items from Allison for the race next day and then headed to bed around 10.30pm. I knew something beyond just nerves were going on. Tummy was not happy and I simply tossed and turned for the next 2hrs. Finally I moved over to our second bedroom and within about 10mins proceeded to throw up everything I had eaten that day :( Yeah…not good at all. At least after that I managed to fall asleep and got about 4hrs of sleep. Thankfully my sleep had been great through the week.

Next morning woke up at 5am, showered, grabbed two waffles and could barely keep one down. We headed towards Lawrence, stopped by grabbed a bagel and managed to eat about half of that. Food was not wanting to stay down this morning either! We picked up fellow first time Marathoner Katie and headed to the race. Chatted with the other Mudbabes, grabbed some pre-race pictures. Hubby by my side always :)

Met the awesome Hannah from More than A Marathon who gave me the tightest hug ever! She had strict instructions to represent Beka and Kristen on this one..and I felt the love! This was the first time I’ve met her although it felt like we’ve known each other forever! Her hubby rocked the Half Marathon, his first trail race!! Awesome job Scott!!

We made our way to the start and after some pre-race instructions from ‘Bad’ Ben, our Race Director, we set off!

The first 3-4 miles are through the cross country course which is pretty much through an open grassy area, not my favorite! Katie, Lisa and I stayed together through this and kept chatting about all sorts of things and all the while wishing we would get into the trails soon :) We took nice and easy. I knew this was when my shin issue would crop up and of course it did. I stretched a few times, but it was certainly not as bad as it had been in the past and we kept moving on. Hubby was able to grab some pictures while were crossed what seemed like endless grass.

Finally we looped back to the start and headed into the single track trails….as you can see we were pretty happy about that!!!

My legs were feeling pretty good at this point and I was not feeling any weird pains. However, I knew my stomach was going to be a different story! It was definitely not settled. I managed to get half a pack of GU Chomps down and we kept moving. I wish I had some pictures to share, but I’m not coordinated enough to attempt taking pictures during a trail race. The trails were perfect!!! We had all wondered what they would be like given the steady rain that had come through in the past 36hrs, but while there were some muddy spots by the creek sections, most of the trail was soft and perfect!! Any little mud we had would get washed away whenever we went through a little water! It was the perfect day for a run through the woods with friends. Cloudy, around 50F and a light breeze coming off the lake. Every once in a while the sun would peek out and you’d feel the humidity rise up, and the clouds would shoo it away! This is why I Absolutely prefer running trails over road!!! Although I’ve run parts of this trail before, given where we started, most of this was unfamiliar territory. All I could hear was my music playing softly, our conversation, squirrels scurrying about and the now in bloom trees being rustled ever so lightly by the cool breezes! PERFECT!!!

At some point, I told Katie and Lisa to go on ahead. While I felt good, I knew my pace was slower than theirs and didn’t want them to lose any time if they felt like they could pick it up. Katie was doing so great on her first marathon, so off they went. While I love running with a group and friends, I also absolutely love running with my own thoughts for company. I kept moving..and even found myself singing along to the songs that were playing in my ear at times :) I finished off my other half of my GU and kept drinking water, watched where I stepped and kept moving. It was just me and the trails now!!

Clinton has three separate trails. Most of the race is on white, which is harder and blue which is a little easier and then there is the Red Shoreline trail shown in red below. I’ve never run on this section and it was certainly the section where I was most careful, but also the most beautiful and exhilarating section to run on. You had to run over giant slabs of rock that were strewn across the shoreline. Thankfully it was pretty dry and I was able to kind of trot/run through this section. Really wish there were some pictures I could share, but its not a place where you want to drop a camera phone :)

Just before entering the Red Trail, I had attempted to take more fuel in and almost threw it up! I was really hoping for an aid station soon to where I could get something else I my other than what I was carrying which did not want to stay down. As I got out the Red trail, I hit the Land’s End Aid station. I told them that my stomach was not feeling good and they immediately gave me some coke. I also grabbed a handful of Pringles and a banana. The coke tasted so incredibly good right there!! I’ve never had coke on a run before and usually don’t drink pop at all..but it stayed in and made me feel much better. I thanked all the great volunteers and moved out munching on the banana, followed by a few Pringles.

Somewhere in here, David Wakefield went by me on his second loop and on his way to the winning the 40mile race. He said “Good Job’ and ‘Keep it up’ and sprinted away his long runner’s legs bounding with ease. I wished him luck and thought to myself…hmmm…he actually knew my name :) I know that was a weird thought at that point, but made me really feel like I was truly part of a awesome group of runners! A little while later Darin Schneidewind who kicked butt and won the 100k in an amazing time went by me and said the same. Trail Runners Rock!! For the next little while I contemplated the commitment and heart it takes to be a runner of that caliber while I kept on running and tried not to think about my lack of energy and fuel at this point. My energy was starting sink…I figured I was around the halfway point and stopped real quick to send a text out to my hubby and the girls to let them know where I was at and that I was moving despite tummy not being happy!!!

Now I was getting into some familiar areas. I know I was getting closer to the aid station and hopefully turn around point!! I came out of the trails and onto a road section where I saw a familiar face coming towards me. It was Katie. She was looking strong! I knew she’d do great!! Never a doubt! She said they had some food up ahead and that she’s see me at the finish line. Two words..food and finish line made me haul myself up the hill where I turned and saw Lisa coming at me. She said the aid station said we only had 9miles to go…I was super thrilled!!! Her allergies were acting up, so she said she slowed down a little. She went on ahead and I headed to the woods and did a little jaunt around the trails and it spat me right out onto the what looked like a buffet of an aid station :) They even had burgers cooking!! Gotta love aid stations at Ultra races. I had felt a twinge in my calf, so on the volunteers gave me an S! cap. I downed two small cups on Ginger Ale, some peanut M&M’s and 2 tootsie rolls. I figured I would try to munch on those for awhile. I came out of the aid station and got back on the road to head to the trails and heard honking. I looked up and it my hubby! I was so happy to see him at that point. We hadn’t planned this at all..so to see him right now was just what I needed!! He asked me if I was ok. I told him tummy was not good, but I’m ok and that I can finish. I let him know it was another 9miles to the finish line and that I had this. He said good luck and I went back into the trails.

I grabbed a tootsie roll popped it in and sucked on it for some time. Then did the same with the M&M and hoped at least that would help get me through. Knowing that I was on the back end made me feel tons better. I kept running and came into some pretty rocky areas where I ran, but was slow and careful. There were several 40mi and 100k runners that went by me at this point. I knew this area a little better, so tried to move a little quicker, but then would suddenly feel my stomach starting to turn and would slow my pace just a little. Then I was back at the Land’s End aid station where it said 3miles to main aid station..and finish line!!! I was almost there!!!! I drank more ginger ale. Grabbed a piece of watermelon and some orange pieces and kept moving. These Volunteers are so awesome!! This section was very rocky and seemed like it had a lot of loose rocks. A few minutes after the aid station it I passed by the stairs that cross the trail and for split second lost my focus, flipped a rock over and took a dive. I know I hit both knees and my right palm, but nothing was bleeding. BUT I felt my left calf immediately seize up and cramp on me. I tried stretching it out and it was stupidly painful. I was so mad!! I remembered that Matty Mullins had told me once that someone told him to slap his calf muscle if its cramped up…so I yelled at it and slapped it silly and kept walking. I stretched and slapped it, walked and slapped for about another 1/2mile or so I think and it finally started easing up and feeling better!! Thanks Matt..not sure if the slapping did it, but sure felt good to do it at that point :)

Those last 3miles were probably the longest 3miles EVER!!!! I kept seeing little open areas and thought is that it?! But then the trails would wind away and I’d be like…damn!! More to go…I knew looking at the Garmin would do little good since it was off by quite a bit. It was so close I could taste it…all I wanted to see was the finish line!! There were twists and turns, I had no idea how much more I had…but then one last turn and then onto where we first got into the trail and I knew I was there!!!

Yes, you saw that time right on the clock. 6hrs and 45mins and I finished my first Marathon!!! I did it!!!!!

As much as I tried to before the race to imagine how I’d feel…what I felt crossing that finish line was nothing compared to that!! I still can’t believe it and it all seems kind of surreal!!!

My goals for this race was to enjoy the experience, finish between 6-7hrs and finish injury free! I’m happy to say Mission Accomplished on all three!! I would have liked to not have to have dealt with the stomach issues, but to know that I could push through and finish despite it gives me a lot of pride and confidence!! Finishing my first Marathon was Amazing!! But even more amazing was the pride and support and love from my hubby!!

To all my wonderful friends and family who I know had me in their thoughts all day Saturday, know that those thoughts kept me moving!! Not finishing was never even an option here. I’m incredibly blessed and ridiculously lucky to have you all in my life and this is all made so much better because I get to share with such special people!!

I can now call myself a Marathoner!!!! and it feels pretty damn good if I do say so myself :)

Newest Member of the ‘m’ club!!!

2011-04-23T21:58:00.000-05:00

I will do a follow up post with details, but for now say hello to the newest member of the Marathon Club! Free State Marathon…my First Marathon is All Done!!!

It wasn’t easy, but all that matters is that I finished and can’t believe that I just ran a Marathon!!! Its starting to sink in :) and I plan on enjoying every minute of it!

My First Marathon Eve..It’s here!!

2011-04-22T15:10:00.000-05:00

It’s been 16 weeks of training in the cold, snow, ice, sun, wind, unexpected heat, rain and mud…and its ALMOST here people!! I cannot believe that tomorrow morning I will wake up, do all my routine pre-run things that I do and then head to tackle my FIRST MARATHON!!! Yes, I did feel the need to scream that :)

Packet has been picked up!

Outfit decided and ready! Hydration pack items ready to be packed in! It’s been a little under a year since I finished my first half marathon and I wasn’t sure I would ever attempt a marathon..let alone having the first one be a Trail Marathon at that! But its almost here!

Race Day Weather:

Steady rain through last evening and this morning has likely made trails muddy which can get tricky in some places.

Training Cycle:

I had good runs and bad runs and everything in between. Ran pretty much 99% on trails, so that will help. Ran in snow, ice, rain and mud! Highlight was Run Toto Run in the snow and ice and my 20mile training run.
I have some concerns that my mileage was high enough…but I did get my long runs in..so hopefully that along with pure will power can get me through :)

Goals:

Soak up all the sweat, tears and more than likely mud of it all, enjoy the experience! I will never have another first marathon no matter how it goes so I want to enjoy it all!!
"Run when you can, walk when you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up." – Dean Karnazes”
I'd love to finish between 6-7hrs..at the very least come under 8 if the course is super muddy and things falls apart on me! But this is more of a guide than a goal!
Finish without any injuries!

Its been a challenge to get here, but I’m here! This past week I’ve been getting inspired by reading accounts of Boston finishers. While I will never run that race, the core of a run no matter what is always one’s will and determination. I read the following quote Mike Fanelli, a running coach and hope to carry it with me tomorrow - “I tell our runners to divide the race into thirds. Run the first part with your head, the middle part with your personality, and the last part with your heart."

I know my heart wants this! I know I have this…just need to let my body and heart take me through!! Plus I have finish line texts to send out my favorite ladies..so better get to that finish line!!
So until I catch you on the flip side..Happy Trails and Good Luck to everyone racing this weekend!!

Taper Time

2011-04-12T17:00:00.000-05:00

So here I am. The last 10 days before toeing the line of my very first marathon. For those who are new to my blog, I’ve picked a trail marathon for my first attempt at the 26.2mi distance. At 8am on Saturday, April 23rd, I will be at the start line for 5th Annual Free State Trail Marathon. I have to admit it still feels weird to be saying that!! :)

I have a few more runs, one tomorrow, one likely on Friday or Sunday and maybe one next Monday or Tuesday. So what now? This being my first taper period, I’m not sure what to do..and more importantly what not to do. I’ve read articles, but am more interested in learning what others gone before me have done.

So any taper tips for this Marathon newbie?

What should I be eating to through these next 10 days?
Should I be totally avoiding alcohol? This one could be very tough as we have a ton of beer still left in the refrigerator.
What about sodium intake?
What’s the best way to stay hydrated the week before…..

……So many questions!!!! Answers anyone??? What has worked for you during taper time leading up to your races.

Happy Hump day Eve!

One Unforgettable Birthday Week!!

2011-04-09T22:20:00.001-05:00

Where to start???

Let’s recap the week that was!

March 31 – Completed my longest run EVER!! 20miles and longest run in my first marathon training cycle and it was ALL on trail! Happy early Birthday to me!! It was cold and a little rainy and slick toward the end, but I got it done! Let the celebrating begin!!
April 1 – Happy Birthday to Moi!! This lady turned 35!! Had the day off and spent the day chilling out and picking up some goodies for the weekend and getting some yoga in. Legs feeling good after 20miles, yay! I think mini cupcakes from a delicious local Sugar Babies bakery and birthday flowers from the hubby helped for sure! Got some new Mizuno goodies, a pair of Wave Nirvana’s, new pair of Trail shoes and a cutest Mizuno skirt…double yay!! And for the grand finale…I got the date for my U.S. Citizenship Oath Ceremony :) Yes, bloggers. I’ve been keeping it quiet until I knew for sure. This is the final step in a five month application process and it was so incredibly fitting that I got my letter on the day of my birthday! Best Birthday gift ever!

April 2 – Played athletic supporter the Fair Weather Runner and Kristen. They were in town for my birthday celebration which included Rock the Parkway half marathon and Brew to Brew the following day. While I did not run the half, of course I had to make sure I was playing supporter and photog for it. A beautiful day for a race!

Followed by a Quadruple reunion at our favorite Blanc Burger!

April 3 – Let Brew to Brew begin!! It was an early morning and a very long day! The race starts at Boulevard Brewery in Kansas City, MO and ends at Free State Brewery in Lawrence, KS and runs through almost 44miles of mostly paved and a little dirt/gravel road. It is open to solo runners and teams and we had two teams running it. What a day it was!!! we had two teams running..Team Crown Car and Team Stroganoff!

Temps steadily rose to a record high for this day in April. All the way to 90F and winds gusted at 30-40mph all day!! I had assigned the legs for runners and hmmm…somehow assigned myself on of the toughest legs on the course. Leg 8 was dirt and gravel road (which I was fine with), pretty much all uphill straight into those strong wind gusts! It was not pretty, but I got it and chalked it up to some great hill and mental training!

Me with Sophia, our Mudbabe Leader who was handling the last aid station..which totally rocked by the way!! Please note the KC Trail Nerd/Mudbabe marker pretty much bent over due to the wind! Yeah..the wind never let up! Oh and this was the skirt I got on Friday! LOVE IT!! Big yay for my Mizuno skirt, Inspire top and those 2XU Compression shorts underneath helped. This was also a good test for a possible Free State outfit that would work in hot weather!

This was one of the best birthdays in recent memory for sure! Thanks to Beka, Kristen and Ed who added so much to it! I Love you guys! I certainly felt the love all weekend from all my wonderful friends!

A HUGE Loving hug to the best hubby EVER who made sure things went smoothly and I had a great time with friends! We celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary 4 days after my birthday and I cannot wait to see what our future holds! More wonderful weekend I’m sure! I Love you more than I could ever say!!!

The month of April and my celebrations are not done yet. I’m now in taper mode for my first Marathon that is exactly 2 weeks from today!! I’m nervous and excited for this race and am planning to enjoy the whole experience of it all! And then 3 weeks from today, I should be a brand new U.S Citizen! Can you feel the excitement of it all!!!!! I can hardly wait!

Good Luck to All those running this week and of course Boston next week! Enjoy the experience and celebrate! You deserve it!!

5 Weeks and Longest Run Ever!!

2011-03-22T12:00:00.000-05:00

Well, 5 Weeks as of this past Saturday that is! Yep..its steadily creeping closer and I’m steadily making my runs longer!

This past Saturday, I was not able to make it out Clinton Lake Training, but headed out to Shawnee Mission Park to get my long run in. Rain was called for, but it was cool and dry when I got there around 8am. My slightly behind training schedule called for 15-16miles, my longest run ever! I was actually cold when I started, so left my jacket on and did not have gloves, so hands were a little cold! After the first orange loop which is 2.5miles in, I was getting warm, so went to car and dropped off the jacket. Convenience is the best part about doing loops!!!

Shawnee Mission Park Mountain bike trails consist of two loops, a orange which is less rocky and mostly rooty, and blue which is pretty much all rocky! They make like 4.5mi figure 8 starting from the trail head, 2.5 on orange and 2 on blue. So its a great way to get different distances in. Plan was to to three 4.5 loops and one 2.5 for 16. Its the section in orange.

I’ve been having some shin pain in the last few runs before this one, so I was really focusing on stretching and making sure that won’t be an issue. First 3miles I took it slower than I wanted..which is good as it takes about that long for my legs to wake up. I think going out too quickly on these first miles are what is causing my shin issues as well. I need to run my own pace for this race in order make sure everything is working well for all 26.2miles! Thankfully no shin pain and while tired, I was able to keep running and keep focused so there would be no spills or falls. One loop, two loop, three loop..ok this is promising!! It was starting to get cooler and clouds moving in and could hear rumbles or thunder going on. My legs were almost ready to go another full loop, which would have made it 18…but then rain drops started coming down quick and thunder and lightening was getting closer. So to be safe, I stopped at 16, which was good because the minute I got into the car…the sky opened up!!
16 Miles and almost 4hrs later I finished my longest run EVER!!! …I never said I was fast! :)

Lessons Learned during this long run was critical! I’m not racing for a time goal for my first, so its key that I do everything to keep my energy high for the time I’m going to be on my feet!

Go at my own pace!! - I’m not fast and at this point, I’m working on endurance and not speed on trails. So trying to keep up faster runners especially at the start will hurt me. Run my own Race!!
Hydrate and eat before I think I need it! – I set my Garmin to 45min alerts and made sure I ate something every 45mins and at least took water every 15mins. I fueled with 1.5 of GU Chomps, One Banana, Two fig Newtons and 4 Hammer Perpetuam Caffe Latte solids during this training run and hydrated with water. I do think I need to work something salty in there a well…hello Pringles!!

Next day, my shins and calf muscles were sore, but all in all not too bad considering I just finished my longest run ever..and it was on trail!! Me happy!!

Legs were a little tired yesterday during our ‘First day of Spring Mudbabe Monday’ run. but I managed to knock out 5.5miles when the weather was 81F outside and sunny!! Check out the Mudbabes and their MudPaw buddies :) Oh yeah Shorts are out!

Cheers to Springtime Trail Running and not needing a headlamp for the next few months!! Happy Springtime Trail everyone!!

Am I ready to be a Warrior?!!!

2011-03-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

Guess I will find out on July 30th! Yep, I’m all signed up for the first Warrior Dash event to be held in Kansas City.

What is Warrior Dash?? Check it out!

The Info section on the website states it is “a Mud Crawling, Fire-leaping, Extreme Run from Hell” Sounds like a blast! Add a little climbing, rappelling, and a whole host of other things I’ve never done before and you have one hell of an experience!!

Why do it? Here are all the very compelling reasons :)

Why not?!! Duh!!
What better way to spend a hot summer’s day in July than running and playing in the mud with a bunch of friends :) Totally gave into my friend Kelly on this one..granted, I don’t think there was a lot of arm twisting involved!
Totally awesome fuzzy Viking Warrior hat!!
Free beer!
Oh , yeah and for the challenge of it all!!

After all…what’s a girl to do after getting her first Marathon under her belt….go run in the mud of course :)

Spring and Summer is going to be AWESOME!!!!

6 Weeks to Free State!!

2011-03-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Frack! Six weeks..oh my!! Suddenly I’m feeling more than a little nervous about my upcoming Trail Marathon…yes which is also my very First Marathon distance.

Last Saturday we had our first training run on the race course. Free State Race will be offering several distance, a 13.1, 26.2, 40miler and 100k. So it was a good opportunity to check out and get some training on the marathon course.

Here is a description of the trails where I hope to finish my first Marathon attempt on. “The trails are single track, dirt trails exhibiting rocks, tree roots, creek crossings, and many rolling hills. The North Shore Trails are blazed with Blue, White or Red and connecting trails are blazed with the two colors of the trails to which they connect. You will run a large portion of all of these trails. The "Blue" Trail is considered easy to moderate difficulty and the "White" Trail is considered moderate to challenging. The Blue Trail is closer to the shoreline and the White Trail wanders up the various ravines away from the lake. The 1.25 mile Shoreline Trail, blazed in red, is located below the Blue Trail on the south side of Campground 1. The Shoreline Trail can be accessed from the Blue trail using 5 connector trails. Your course route will be marked well with the following yellow 8-1/2" X 11" signage: Left, Right, Wrong Way, Straight Ahead, and "Marathon Route." Trailrunning shoes are "highly recommended" to limit foot/toe trauma. There is a decent chance that the stream crossings will have enough water to get your feet wet; after all, it will be Springtime. If you wander off-trail, there is a possibility of picking up ticks or poison ivy, as well. While running on the trails, there is a huge chance for seeing the following wildlife: deer, squirrels, chipmunks, hawks, other birds. There is a slight chance for seeing the following wildlife: bobcat, owls, possums, raccoons, "domesticated animals," lizards, and snakes (non-poisonous & poisonous: copperheads, rattlesnakes)” sounds fun doesn’t it?!! Not sure you can see the arrows, but here is the course map.
My first training run on the course went well enough. I covered a little over 13 miles and while tired and sore the next day, was feeling pretty good. I was hoping to be around 16-17 miles with six weeks out, but weather has been causing some serious problems with my long run training. I’m hoping that we will have some nice stretches of dry weather so I can at least get up to 20 on the trail…that seems to far away right now :( Things have been holding up well..although my Achilles Tendon seems to be a little angry with me. After last weekend’s 10miler, it was really sore and so I headed to chiro for some ART. He mentioned that it was a little inflamed and to ice and stretch and strengthen the calf muscle, which seems to be source of it. All the running in the snow and mud causes my heel to sink lower and adds a little more stress on the tendon. So I’ve been icing daily and working diligently on calf raises and stretches and making sure I do yoga at least 2-3 times a week for the next 6 weeks.

I’m hoping to get around 15-16 this week, then 18 next weekend and with some luck and Mother Nature being cooperative hit 20 the first week of April. That should give me 3 weeks of taper. I wish my mileage was higher and that does worry me. I’m relying a lot on my long runs carrying me through to the end! Is this a recipe for disaster?
What is the longest run you completed and successfully completed a marathon? Yes, you hurt and was sore, but finished!! And my goal for this one…is simply to finish!

My Running Realization!

2011-02-19T22:45:00.000-06:00

Week 7 of Free State Trail Marathon Training is complete! Nine more weeks to race day and this week I had a realization about my running! My Legs Love Trails!!

Let me tell you what brought this realization today! After last week’s 10mile race, I was feeling pretty good which made me very happy! With the weather warming up steadily, the snow on the trails were melting and the Shawnee Mission Park mountain bike trails were closed. I missed my Monday evening..it was Valentines day after all..and hubby and I had big plans of, Upgrading out iPhones at Radio Shack! Yes, romantic…but that how we roll for V-day! :) So I ended up running a little over 5miles each at Indian Creek Paved Trails both Tuesday and Wednesday. I was so insanely sore Wednesday and Thursday :( Glad I had chiropractor appointment to work on those tight spots.

Which leads me to my long run today! The mountain bike trails were still closed and it was a little cloudy, cool and windy! I headed over to SMP, parked at the usual spot and decided to head into the paved bike trail loop inside the park. 2miles in, my legs were miserable. Shins were not happy and I was not looking forward to running 10 more miles of it. So I headed back..for a total of 4miles! Fail! On my way back I snuck a peek at trails and they didn’t look too bad, so I headed back to the car and put on my trail shoes, looked around for any park police and ran into the trails…Ahhhh!!! Much better!! :) Shin pain gone and legs were back! Trails were in decent shape, just very sticky mud and except for a few squishier places it was like running on bouncy, sticky marshmallow :) Yes, I had to stop more than a few times to scrape off the more than inch of mud stuck to the bottom of my shoes, and Yes, most of the time I’m pretty sure I was a good inch or so off the ground…BUT It was Awesome!!

I finished two loops for a total of 9miles on the trails! So I was a little sneaky, but how much damage can little ‘ol me do! And I did do my very best to stay to the side where there were more leaves. So what did I realize…Me and My Legs LOVE Trails!! Snowy and Muddy and everything in between!!

Heck, I better get some muddy training in case Free State turns out like it did a last year! Hoping it won’t be as bad as last year, but better to be prepared!
(Picture below is part of the trail from last year)

And running this is so much more exhilarating for me than any paved road could be anymore!!!

Happy Muddy Trails everyone!!

Run Toto Run 10miler Race Report

2011-02-16T16:00:00.000-06:00

Picture Alert!!! When I first saw the description for Run Toto Run, I wondered why am I even looking at this? I’ve never even run on snow and its likely to be either snowy or icy and muddy! What am I thinking?? BUT then of course you never until you try right?! And Try I did at last Saturday’s Run Toto Run 10miler. I figured since I’m in training for a trail full marathon and my plan calls for 10miles that weekend, What better way to see how I’m doing than try this very challenging and tough course made even more complicated by the winter weather. Wyco is known for its hills areas…instead of trying to explain them, let me share the course map with you. Its a lot more descriptive!

Run Toto Run…my first winter trail race did not disappoint!! We’ve had quite a bit of snow here in Kansas this last month, the biggest storm bringing us about a foot of snow in the KC area. That was about a week and a half before the race..then the week of we had about maybe another 2-3” of fresh snow followed by above freezing temps during the day and below freezing at night which all combined made for completely snow covered trails with a layer of ice at the bottom! In preparation for the race I did run this course once two weeks prior to race day, but we had half the amount of snow at that time.

Race day started in the mid 20s and then peaked around the mid 40s. I was helping out at the race day packet pickup, so got there around 7am before my race started at 9am. 2hrs filled with last minute craziness and great volunteers flew by!

At 8am, the 50k and 20mile racers started. I waited while (Screen left to Right,) Mudbabe Hayley, who added a 50k feather to her cap, Lisa who chopped off an hour plus on her 20miler from last year, Pacer and Lentil Soup Wonder maker Allison who brought in Danny on his second 50k got started. Read his report here.

The 20mi and 50k runners ready to blaze the snowy trails!
An hour later, the 10miler started. The first few hundred yards was tough work. I was really hoping the rest would not be the same. Red arrow points to me! I had my shoes screwed and was as ready as I could be.

Through the ankle deep snow moved around by previous runners, towards the hill, road and then into the bridle trails.

I started off with a friend of Danny’s, but we got separated, so for the most part I ran with my thoughts to keep me company and the occasional chatter of other runners. With the 20mi and 50k runners well ahead of us, the bridle trails were fairly well packed when we got going. So far traction was pretty good as we headed in to infamous ‘Wyco Triangle’. This is a crazy section full of single track trails that zigzag every which way you can imagine across the hillside. Its a few steps this way, then a few that way, duck under a low hanging branch and then run out at the same point you entered in :) Key thing is to keep eyes on the trail and not fall down. Grabbed a cookie at the aid station and some Gatorade and kept moving. Legs were still feeling pretty good. No pains! Here I am headed out of the Triangle and some pictures of runners crisscrossing in there.
Awesome Triangle Aid station manned by awesome volunteers!!

At this point I meet up with Mel, who I ran with for the Half Marathon at Blue Springs with. We keep chatting and move through the trails and then get into what’s lovingly known as ‘’Fall-Down Hill’ leading to the base of the Dam. One of two down hills that made me very nervous!! And as the name implies, there were several that fell down this hill, including the guy directly in front of me who fell 3 different times going down it. This is a series of insane cut-backs which are steep and I swear keep getting more and more slippery as you keep moving down. I try to use some ‘trees’ more like larger branches to keep my momentum going while letting gravity do some work for me! And all this time watching and stepping aside for faster runners who need to keep their momentum going. We now had 20milers and 50k’ers on their second loop. I manage to not fall down on my butt and came out of it and started heading up the steady incline to ‘Dam Hill’ where we had the 5mi Aid Station. At this point, I was doing good and ahead of my time when I ran this during my training run.

We continue to run on pavement all uphill for maybe another half a mile and and then re-enter the trails. I finished off the last half of my GU Chomps packet since I knew some serious hills were waiting for me in the last 5miles.

I head down the crazy as hell ‘Speed Demon Ridge’ to the ‘Nicely Broken Leg Turn’. This is the second downhill I was nervous for. It is apparently named after Chris Nicely who fell and broke his leg here a few years back. The first time I tried this in training, I attempted to shuffle down and realized that was no good…so took a wider stance and gunned it down. I knew it was going to slicker with over 250 runners already gone down and the rocks getting in prime shape for slip sliding away. So I simply let go..come what may and gunned it down the hill!! Ok…yes the thought that I may not be able to stop and make the turn did cross my mind..but I tried to simply push it away and think light, but steady thoughts :) And got through it with no falls!! Whew!!

Next up was the barrage of hills Wyco is famous for. First up ‘Misery Ridge’, one tough climb. There was a lot of grabbing onto trees, branches or whatever happened to be there to get up and not fall down.

More single track snow packed trails, then into an open field by the archery range and back into the trails. A few inclines here and there and then hit the aid station at Mile 8 spearheaded by RUNNERFREAK Darin S. who is awesome and encouraging to a trail newbie like me. Gotta love trail running aid stations where they put in longer hours than some runners! I knew I needed some salt and grabbed a few Pringles and munched on them as I headed towards the trail again.The last 2miles of this loop hold the most challenging hills! The ‘Three Hills’ section aptly named for the three very steep..and I mean very steep hills that will zap your legs to a pulp and really test your resolve to keep moving. The day I can run at least halfway up one of these hills will be a day to celebrate! These hills were made for walking..well at least for me :) After the final fourth smaller steep hill I hear cowbell and cheering!! Ahhh..finish line here I come. I knew I could come under 3 which was almost 15mins under training time. I muster it all and run up the little hill with a weird out of nowhere iron post sticking out of the ground and downhill towards the finish!! 2:58:36!!

What an amazing feeling that was! Compared to most that ran the 10miles, it is a slow time, BUT to me these races are so much more than running against other runners, and so much of running against myself. There are so many places where you could just give up..but you have to keep moving. Sophia who finished the 10miler at Rocky said its a matter of putting one foot in front of the other and I tried to simply keep doing that. And again, yes it was only 10miles, but it was a huge boost for me to do this race and do it faster than when I ran it in training as I know I’m on the right track with training for my Trail Marathon in 10 weeks.

One thing I did realize is that I need to be better with getting more electrolytes in, especially when its this hilly. I could feel my calf twinge as I was tacking the ‘Three Hills’ , but would keep moving. I also need to maybe position myself not all the way at the back so I’m not falling too far behind and maybe use the pace of other runners to keep me moving at times. I think I did very well in using the down hills to gain some speed. I knew I’d have to walk up the steep hills, so the typical trail running strategy of running flats and down hills and hiking uphill seem to work…just need to walk uphill faster!

Post race I downed some Hammer Recoverite, then got warm with some yummy Chicken Noodle soup. Soup station was manned by Ultra Runner Tony C. from Wichita who ran a mind boggling 224miles this past summer for the Wounded Warrior Project. We chatted a little and who knew I could get so awe struck by an Ultra Runner :) The KC Trails Nerds and MudBabes have some runners with amazing ultra running accomplishments!! I changed into dry clothes and then helped out at the aid station and waited around for some other friends to come in.

It was a long day, but a great day of personal accomplishment and of being inspired by the accomplishment and toughness of others! I LOVE, LOVE the trail running community that I’ve gotten so close to. That day I walked away that day with this… and of course this…
But most of all with so much admiration for what people can accomplish, tons of inspiration for what I could do if I train right and set my mind to, a heart full of thanks for all the great volunteers and hard work that make these events run so well and the utmost respect and love for two awesome race directors and trail runners!! Sophia and Ben you guys totally Rock!!

I absolutely cannot wait to see what my trail running future holds!!!

‘Work from Home much’ Giveaway Winner

2011-02-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Belated Valentine’s Day and 2yr Blogiversary (yes, so that’s not a real word) to onelittletrigirl. You are my winner for the CSN Stores $40 (yes, they added on another $5) Giveaway promo.

Go check out her blog Finishing is Winning today and join in the Monday Brain Exchange she does every week! This week’s question is ‘Extreme Weather and Keeping it Fun’

So living in Kansas we get all four seasons. Although lately it feels like we barely get Spring and Fall and Summer and Winter seem to dominate. This past two Winter’s have been tough with more below normal cold weather days and a lot more snow that we’re used to getting. Now I know I shouldn’t complain especially given what they ended with in New Jersey, but it does make for very tough winter training! I gave up my gym membership last year and so I started running trails over the heat of the summer and ran as much as I could over the snow and cold on Winter. Partly because not doing it meant no running at all! I even completed my toughest trail race to date last weekend which I will post a report on next! Sometimes You just have to suck it up and learn to appreciate the extreme weather for what it is…Mother Nature giving us a lecture ;)

Congratulations to Finishing is Winning!! Please send me your email and I will send your promo code over to you!!

Watch for my Run Toto Run race report next….

Psyching Up for PsychoWyco Run Toto Run!!

2011-02-10T12:00:00.000-06:00

How does a combination of ice/snow/slush/mud, sharp rocks, never ending up hills and some seriously steep down hills which make you wonder “hell in this safe’ sound for a winter trail race? Downright Scary, Tough as s@%t, Crazy, Challenging, Oh my I wanna puke nerves are all running through my head…and I’m ONLY doing the 10miler!!

See all this down here…same course, except covered with a lot more snow, ice, slush and mud! This should be an adventure!!

Enter PsychoWyco 7th Annual Run Toto Run 10/2mi, 50k Trail race this Saturday at Wyandotte County Park in Kansas City, KS. The race will be run on bridle trail that circles the park and is about 8.85 miles long, but made longer with the addition of single-track trails by Kansas City Trail Nerds, ERTA and the Trail Masons. I will be doing one loop for my race…others like Mudbabes Lisa and Rachael much tougher than me will be doing the 2 loops for 20mi and then total badasses like Jesse, Danny and Mudbabe Hayley will be kicking butt on the 50k! BTW – This is Jesse’s first 50k and I believe Hayley’s first 50k! And they picked this one..just goes to show how tough trail runners are!! Sending you both some trail love for luck!!

The temps today are only supposed to reach into the mid 20s, But tomorrow and race day are a different story. This means some snow melting, some refreezing, most slushy and muddy and all sloppy, slippery and slidey! I did mention this was going to be an adventure right?

Goals for this race. It is a training run in my mind in my path to FreeState Trail Marathon in around 10 weeks. So goal is to

One - Finish and
Two - Not break or seriously injure anything in the process!!

THIS will be the toughest challenge I’ve undertaken so far in my very short time as a trail runner and while I will admit I’m a bundle of nerves about falling and slipping down the side of a steep hill….I’m so excited for the challenge and adventure of it all and what it will bring!!

Oh and before I leave, HUGE, HUGE, HUGE Muddy hugs and Congrats to our Mudbabe Leader Sophia who totally and utterly rocked Rocky Raccoon, her first 100miler this weekend!! Read about her amazing feat here. If I have an inch of her toughness..I should be ok this weekend.

Until after the race…Happy Trails!!

‘Work from Home much’ Giveaway

2011-02-08T14:09:00.000-06:00

Yep, winter is in full blast!! The high for today is a whopping 8F..right now I thinks its trying to make it to 5F. Last week we had a foot of snow and this blogger spent pretty much the whole week working from home. While my couch and coffee table works, I really need a good work space at home, so one evening I started browsing the web for office desks and found an assortment of great products at CSN Stores.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who needs some good office furniture. I have promo code for $35 to CSN Stores for one lucky reader who needs that little extra something to be more comfortable while working be it at home or in the office.

Here is how you can enter (one entry for each method):

Check out CSN Stores and tell me what might make your work space a little better.
Become a Follower of this Running Sri Lankan and leave a comment.
Follow me through NetworkedBlog
If you Follow me already, just say Hi and tell me about what you like to do.
Link to your blog or tweet about and let me know.

Please note only U.S. and Canadian readers are eligible to participate.

I’ll pick a winner on Valentines Day!

Go Kansas City Trail Nerds Go!!!

2011-01-18T12:00:00.000-06:00

KC Trail Nerds are famous!! As well they should be!! This is the trail running group that I’ve been extremely fortunate to get to know and hang out with in the last few months! And while I was not able to participate in this particular race due another commitment, I wanted to make sure everyone knows about this awesome trail running group, led by the “Bad’ Ben Holmes and the Mighty Ms. Sophia, our fierce Mud Babe leader extraordinaire!

They’ve opened my eyes and legs, and everything in between that works hard to get me through those trails races, to a whole new running world that I would have never ever tried and thought I could do. For all those who are die hard road runners, take a break and try a trail sometime and you will no doubt be wonderfully surprised about what your body can accomplish and the camaraderie and community of these awesome group of runners!!

Two weeks of First Marathon Training cycle – DONE!

2011-01-15T20:00:00.000-06:00

Yes, you did read that right! This girl is on route to her first Marathon! As mentioned in my previous post, my first marathon will be Free State Trail Marathon in 4/23. So I started a 16 week training plan based on Runners World Smart Coach. This means winter training!!

Now the only issue here is the plan is based on times provided for a road half marathon and there is no way the speeds translate correctly. BUT this is after all my first marathon and my goal is to FINISH and I have NO time goal. I just need to make sure I don’t go past the cut off times for the 40mile runners…I think I can manage that! :) So I’m using the mileage provided as a guide and also trying to get as much time on my feet as possible as well.

Week 1 went well. Since I was coming back from a month off due to injury, I’m started off by using a 5min Run/5min Walk plan. All my training runs will be on trail, or as much as I can anyway and so far so good on that goal. The 5min Run/Walk is working well and I’m slowly reducing walk and adding run time. Week 1 goal of 18miles were completed all on trail and while sore, no pains like before :) Yey!!

Week 2 was going to be tricky as we had snow in the forecast! I run Monday, Wednesday and long on Saturday. Yes, its three days only, but I find that is a good plan right now and it gives me days to strength train and do cross training with yoga as well. It snowed all day on Monday, so my week 2 Monday run did not happen. It was insanely cold Tuesday and Wednesday. The trails were snow packed and this girl has never run on snow! This would be a first!! I went out for a short run Thursday and while tough, got 3miles in. Traction was non existent and i could feel ankles and hips taking a beating for sure, BUT despite how tough it was,surprise, surprise, I enjoyed it!! I did however go invest in a pair YakTrax Pro for my long run which called for 8miles. It took me a little over 2hrs, but 8miles done and Week 2 of ‘m’ training completed with 11miles! I figured 11miles on snow packed trails equals the 17 that was supposed to happen!

Running trails on snow while tougher..well anything I’ve ever done as far as running..is exhausting, tough, sometimes frustrating, but oh so incredibly invigorating and peaceful and awe inspiring all at once. I don’t use any music while running trails and have found with view like this who needs it!!

View of trails from parking lot. Pre and …..
Post Run Lake view!
Start of trail…

Following in the footsteps on my fellow Trail Nerds and Mudbabes and my Cabrakans getting their first taste of some snow running!!

Amazing views!
So have you tried snow running this winter?
Happy Trails! whether they be dry roads or snowy trails!!

Happy New Year and Welcome to 2011!!

2011-01-03T10:00:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it? Its 2011 already!! The older you get, the quicker the years seem to fly by. I for one am glad for the new year! Looking back at the year 2010, it was definitely not the easiest year I’ve had. I did complete my first Half Marathon and ventured into the world of trail running and while I battled injuries, the sense of accomplishment I got from all my races makes me proud! Even better are the wonderful new friends I’ve made and the moments shared with old friends that are priceless!

On a non-running related front, hubby’s lay-off in May sent us into a tailspin and we had to really re-evaluate how we did things. We made some major changes that while it is tough as hell to stick to will only serve us better in the long run and as we move into 2011…we hope to continue moving towards the future we want for ourselves. While it certainly caused some sleepless nights and hard to hear words for both of us, it has made us stronger than ever together! We are looking forward to some good things for us in 2011!

While I’m not one for doing the whole new year resolution thing, I do take it some time to take stock of where life is at, where I would like it to be and how might do things in the new year to help me get there. Daunting task I know…and while I’m not ready to share some of my personal goals on in the blogosphere as yet, I will jot down my main running goals for the upcoming year.

Running Goals

Goal #1 - Primary goal is to stay injury free!!!
I know this is not very specific, but everything below will fail if I can’t do this! So listening to my body, cross training and resting adequately after key workouts and races will be key to achieving this.
Goal #2 - Complete a Marathon Distance
I’ve picked the Free State Trail Marathon on 4/23 to achieve this goal. Why pick a Trail Marathon as my first? Well..since Summer 2010 most of my races have been trail races and I’ve come to really enjoy the atmosphere and camaraderie that comes with a Trail race when compared with a road race. Also, I figured if I can finish a trail marathon a road one should not be an issue at all. I’m obviously not going for a time goal, but just to complete this one would be HUGE!
Goal #3 – Complete a 50k Distance
I was not even thinking about this one and didn’t want to put it down, but I figured if I can stay injury free and complete a Marathon, a 50k should not be a stretch. I have not picked a race as yet, as this goal relies on ensuring #1 and #2 are completed successfully!!

So that’s what I have for this brand spanking new year which is only 3 days old!! My hope is that is holds more promise, more love, more laughter, more opportunity, more success and more miles for us all!!

Happy ‘Special times with Family and Loved Ones’!!

2010-12-23T18:00:00.000-06:00

I celebrate Christmas and this year its going to be a very low key one. Hubby works the day before and day after, so we are spending Christmas Day at the movies and a nice simple homemade dinner! Yes, to be absolutely cheesy, spending time with him this year is the best gift of all!!! After all that is what the spirit of the season truly means Love of Family and Friends!!

So no matter what you happen to be celebrating at this time of year, here’s wishing you the very, very best of this wonderful season!!

Alternate Chili Run in my case Hike Report

2010-12-14T11:00:00.000-06:00

Yep, as hinted by the the title, I’m still taking a break from running. I’m now in week three of my self imposed break. Yes, I decided for myself!! I’ve been focusing on getting my lower leg issues resolved. For workouts its been yoga and more yoga with core and resistance training added in for good measure. I’ve been using the p90x DVDs for Yoga and Core work and mixing up with free weights at home.

Of course, that doesn’t mean its been easy to not run! BUT while the doc has been working on what is a whole ton load of scar tissue on my lower legs, I am committed to sticking to the 4 week break. This means I get back on the running horse right after Christmas! All I want for Christmas is pain free runs!!

Anyway, onto the details of the report. Every year the Mid-America Running Association puts on a Chili Run. This is low key 6.5mi fun run and follows the road that borders around the Wyandotte County Lake in Kansas City, KS. The run is followed by a Chili feed for $5. The ‘Alternate’ Chili Run is the last listed event on the KC Trail Nerd calendar and is a 10mi off-pavement trail run on the same day as the MARA one. Here’s the route. The run costs a whopping $5 (additional $5 if you want Chili). There are no bib numbers or timing, just a coordinated run for all paces. This was definitely one I did not want to miss as it is a preview of the 10mi loop that I will be running for Run Toto Run, my first 2011 Trail race which I’ve already registered for.

So when I was asked to sweep the course with a fellow runner who was also in recovery mode, I figured that would be better than not running it at all. We decided that we would run/walk/hike as we went last and picked up flags that marked the course.

I was carpooling with fellow Mudbabe Allison, who was on photo duties. When I left for Allison’s it was starting to rain and the temps were around 45F with a feels like factor of around 40F due to the very gusty winds. I was really hoping the rain would not get any worse as this course can super, super muddy as evidences in my Night Trail Run adventure through part of it. Thankfully the rain subsided, but that wind did not let up, gusting at 35-40mph at times. We got there with about 5mins to spare, donned my very fashionable orange vest, met Beth and got going. Since the temps were expected to drop steadily through the day and a chance to snow, I double layered. I wore my Insulated CW-X tights and Nike pants over it. I ended up taking the pants off about 45mins into the run, one: because they would keep getting caught on things and two: I was starting to warm up. I could deal with a cold butt for a little ;) On tope I had originally worn a Nike long sleeve shirt and hoodie, But decided to take up Allison’s offer of borrowing her Mizuno Breath Thermo Stretch Crew and a Marmot Jacket to shield against the wind. Thanks Allison for making me do that, pretty sure I would have frozen if not for her clothes! Gloves, Fleece hat and Trail shoes completed the outfit!

Here’s Beth and me in our snazzy orange vests at the beginning of the trail. Notice the little slow downhill..yeah pretty sure there is absolutely no flat on this course..well flat for me anyway :)

So while I could go on and on and on about the course and how tough and challenging it is and how I’m thinking of possibly having to make some sacrifice to the Weather God’s to ensure that it stays as dry as it was on Saturday….I will just say come February 12, 2011, this course might make me cry a little..or a lot depending on how the Winter decided to go the month before the race!!! But no whining is our motto and I will stick to it damn it!! It is a 10mi loop, which for Run Toto Run, I will run one loop or two depending on how my training goes. It is course that is pretty much uphill and downhill all the way and in some areas where grabbing on to a tree to get up may be a requirement. A course that can turn into a giant bog if the we get a lot of snow and a course that is very literally going to kick my Sri Lankan Runner butt!! Here is are a couple of articles that give a far better description of what I will likely be dealing with next year. One by Running Times and by UltraRunning Magazine already makes me rack my brain going..what the heck did I just get into?!!! Oh well..never know until you try!!

BUT having said all that, I’m looking forward to it. Beth and I took our time sweeping the course and picked up flags, chatted about our running, made some new Boy Scout friends along the way, almost got a little lost, crossed over a very cold creek or two which made us have to pee in the woods a little :), ran a little, walked more and hiked up hills even more. It took us 3hrs 55min or so to complete it and I had a blast!! I was pretty happy with the time it took considering we ran very little or barely and that I’ve not any cardio in the last two weeks. I ran just a little to see how my lower legs would feel and I’m happy to report they are in full recovery mode for sure. A lot less tender and tight than before. I think with some training in the dreaded Wyco hills and I KNOW I can do the 10miler and with some luck and strong legs and good nutrition, who knows maybe even the 20!! I’ll leave you with some pictures from past years from the famed Dick Ross at SeeKCrun. If you are looking for a real challenge, come Run Toto Run with the Mudbabes and Trail Nerds in 2011 and discover that Kansas is not all flat!! Stay tuned….The small, but extremely TOUGH group of runners who braved the gusty winds and temps dropping into the teens on Saturday.

Going Up and Up the hill…never ending uphill and downhill!

Choo, Choo..like a Train, just with strong legs to carry the Runners through the open Uphill and straight into the wind!!

On the Up and Up and More Up?!!

If gets snowy and ice, Screw it all…all the shoes that is!!

Time for a break!

2010-11-27T14:30:00.000-06:00

So since the Half, I’ve been out for two short runs..both miserable and rough! Me thinks its time for a break from running :(

Since I started training for Groundhog 10k around last November, I’ve been more or less in training for some race or the other continuously. I ramped up miles for my first Half Marathon in April, then added trail running over the summer and have done a trail race each month and finally finished off with 2 Half Marathons within the last month. I’ve been running with nagging injuries for a while hoping they will keep away with some good stretches and yoga routine, but that’s not happened.

I’m getting tired of running with pain all the time. I’ve been getting some PT and chiropractic work and all this seem to stem from a weak hip and lower back. I can feel some very definite pain in my lower legs and left hip and I think the more I keep running without a break, the worse I am likely making things….SO in the interest of starting Marathon training in 2011 with my best foot forward and have my best foot/leg and hip be both left and right, I’m taking a break….a 2-4 week break from running to be exact! I will see how I feel with a test run around week 2, 3 and 4 and decide of more or less is needed. As much as I don’t want to stop, I think this is a the smartest thing to do to heal myself and make myself a stronger runner and go into a 2011 Marathon!!

So right now I’ll leave you with some more pictures from Gobbler Grind 2010! Until Next time..Happy Trails!!

Gobbler Grind 2010 Race Report

2010-11-24T17:50:00.000-06:00

…or GG2010 as it has come to be known :)

Its been 3 weeks since my last post and 2nd Half Marathon and its been a very busy three weeks for sure. Since the Lou Joline HM, my lower legs have not been happy at all. Not sure what did it. but they have been super tight despite the foam rolling, icing, yoga’ing. So I took a small break from trail running and just concentrated on getting some short runs in with the longest one being just 6miles coming a week before GG2010.

In the last three weeks, I volunteered at another awesome race put on by the Trail Nerds. Pilgrim Pacer is the only paved on they do (I think) and I had a blast supporting our fellow runners on a cold and windy morning. I have also since then found out the what is likely the source of my issues…a pretty nice curve in my spine. While a curved spine is very common (as my hubby keeps telling me) the degree of said curve matters (as I keep telling him) and mine has a pretty decent curve. In any case the doc says this is more than likely the issues as mine spine has rotation and is essentially causing my hips and everything that hangs off it to have some rotation and torque. GREAT!!! So what to do…strengthen hips, gluteus and core!!!

OK…now having given you the abridged version of that…we move onto GG2010! This is my 3rd time doing this race. First year was the 5k, last year although I signed up for the Half, I bumped down to the 5k as I had some pretty rough ITB issues and finally I managed to make it to the Half Marathon this year. The Fair Weather Runner and her hubby were up for the race as she was running the Half as well.

I had picked up packets with the way cool shirt color and was Kinesio Taped and as ready as I could be for this.

Of course pre-race carbo load dinner, translation Blanc Burger and Beer, was full of hilarity!!Race morning came about and while we hoped it would be cooler and a lot less windier, it was not to be so. Temps were almost at 60F around the 8am start time and the winds were gusting at 20-30mph!!! This was going to be rough especially at the straight up the hills and into the winds section for about 2.5miles or so.

We got the start with plenty of time to spare and to find a Beka’s friend Shelly as well. After some seriously technically challenged announcements, we were off. The first 5k was through the business park roads and at some points the wind was really blowing through building. Check out the course map here. Miles 1-3 went by pretty well and I was doing under a 11 min/mile. I felt pretty good.

Then at the 5k mark, the Half and Full Marathoners headed into Indian Creek Trails which I was very familiar with as I run them often. Just gentle rolling hills nothing too bad, but also nothing where its too flat for an extended period of time either. So far so good, I was doing around 11-11.30 min/miles but did have a walk break to stretch out my calves and hip as it was starting to get a little tight. Not good news for Miles 6-10 :( I kept moving and then we headed out of the trails at Mile 6 and things started to fall apart. Miles 6 and 7 were just long hills headed straight into the wind..which combined knocked me down a lot. I took more walk breaks than I had planned and had to stretch a little to get calves and left hip from stiffening up too much again. Mile 8 was kind of a downhill and then uphill kind of stretch..again into the wind. I was just praying that my knees didn’t act up. The Mile 9 was all downhill and I picked up speed and tried to play some catch up and managed a 10.30 min/mile. Then we headed back into the trails for the last 5k and I knew I wouldn’t PR on this one. I was pretty bummed, but I wanted to finish as strong as I could and kept moving and went for it in that last mile.

End result: 2:43:18…no PR, but still better than my first HM time!! And btw major shoutout to the FWR who killed it!! Nice job :) Lessons Learned:

Need to do more tempo runs to be able to hold steady pace mile after mile. Maybe some speed work once I have my hip issues sorted out.
Work some more hills into training. While I ran trails that worked hills into training, I need to be more diligent with them.
Train to do negative splits. I tend to start out out too fast (for me) and towards the end had a hard time keeping my energy going.
Get back into strength training!!
I can push the speed when I want to..that last 1/4mile I busted out a sub 10min/mile because I wanted to get done :) Just need to slowly work that in throughout the race!!

GG2010 was the last of my planned races for the year! I finished 3 Half Marathons and 2 within 3 weeks. I did manage to knock out 8mins off my first attempt and the goal for next year will be to get that down even more and shoot for under 2:30!

Now I move onto focusing on working on some weak areas that are causing me problems. I need to get these worked in as I move into Marathon training!!!!

But for now…I’m going to chill out and enjoy some much need family time :) I have lots to be thankful for. Its been a tough year, but we’ve managed to stay afloat, make new friends and be closer to old ones!! Hope everyone has a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday! Indulge in the love and warmth of family and friends..and even a little turkey and pumpkin pie :)

Lou Joline 50/50 Race Report

2010-11-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

OK…don’t let the title of the post fool you. This girl was not running the 50k or 50 miler…this year!!! I did however run the shortest distance offered which was the Half Marathon on Sunday, 10/31. Oh and picture ALERT!!! This was not one that I had planned to run. Gobbler Grind on 11/21 was to be my second HM. But my training plan called for 12, so heck why not add a little over another mile and get a my second HM under my belt. And it was only going to cost me $30 on race day!! So didn’t need to even register up front! Couldn't pass that up!

This was the 15th Annual Larry Mattonen Marathon (26.2-Mile) Run or Walk, Blue Springs 50-Mile Run, Blue Springs 50-Kilometer Run, 13.1-Mile Run, 26.2-Mile Racewalk, Six-Person Relay, and 50-Mile Relay aka Lou Joline 50/50 named for the chief organizer and runner Lou. It is a race geared toward Ultra Runners wanting to get Western States or another major Ultra qualifying times, so it is not your typical Marathon and/or Half Marathon race. The course was stated to be 99% on a scenic, flat, crushed gravel trail at the Little Blue Trace in Blue Springs, MO. With aid stations around every 4.5miles or so, this was a race where you did not see the large crowds, so it was all you, your pacer and whoever else you ran with. So for the most part, alone in your thoughts and testing and strengthening not only the physical, but the vital mental aspect of running!!

We got there really early for a 7am start. I love my hubby. he woke up on his day off and drove me to the race and then hung around until I got done. That’s love :)

Hanging on to the warmth!! It was around 43F at race start!

Around 6.40am or so at race HQ, restroom stop and then ready!!

Fellow Mudbabes and Trail Nerd. Two of us did the Half, while the rest went for 50miles!! Who knows maybe next year (wait..did I just say that out loud)!! Oh…I must still be asleep ;)

A few pre race instructions before we go off!

I kept pace with the three ladies running the Ultra for a little while and then stuck my race along with another Mudbabe who ran around my pace. The first 2mi were rough, what else is new. Legs were tight, but once I stopped and stretched around 2.5 legs started to warm up. The race had several turn around points marked for the longer distances, but for the Half it was 4.5 out, aid station, 4.5 back to main aid station, then 2 out and back for the finish. The scenery was open trail and beautiful. It was still a little chilly and my hands were really cold. The rest of me was just fine! I had my new CW-X 3/4 tights with short sleeve shirt and Mizuno Breath Thermo arm warmers. Consider this a major thumbs up for the Mizuno arm warmers (thanks Sophia) and my new CW-X Stabilyx tights!! LOVED them Both!! The arm warmers kept my arms at the perfect temperature and was never too hot! The tights really provided that extra support for my core and knees which have been my trouble spot.

We kept a steady pace through the first 6-7miles. I took a GU after the first 45mins..but had some trouble getting it all down so didn’t take it all.

Hit the aid station at 4.5 and instead of trying GU, I grabbed a Fig Newton. I was going to give solid food a try. I was using Hammer HEED Strawberry and then used a little Hammer Perpetuam for the last few miles for a little extra caffeine. And..no potty stops at all!!

Ultra races have the greatest aid stations with the best volunteers!

Felt pretty good and kept moving steadily after the turn around at the aid station. Ok, gotta work on avoiding that heel strike Indi!

When I decided to run this race, I mentally told myself I can PR! This meant coming in under 2:44:51 off OKC Half in April which was my first one. For some reason through the race, I had 2:40 on my head and was gunning for between 2:30-2:40. Once I hit the 9mi and main aid station, took another fig newton and decided to make it happen. I was running a pretty decent pace (for me :)) so far and knew I could do it. Headed toward the Half turn around point and the wind was really starting blow. It wasn’t pretty. But kept moving. Turned around and them wham straight into the wind and that really started to make me tired. I knew I get under 2:40 and kept moving. Final stretch….

And finished in 2:37:06 (unofficial time)!!!!

I’m all done and ready to get warm, cleaned up and get some grub!

Unfortunately I was not able to wait for my Mudbabes to finish their Ultra, but they did great!! Here is Sophia, Erin and Anne after their race! Awesome job ladies!

And Thanks to Dick Ross AGAIN for all the awesome pictures I keep using on my blog :) Post race waiting to see his great pics are the next best thing!!

While I didn’t quite get the 2:30 I really wanted..I did nab myself an almost 8min PR! Which means I’m getting a little faster and stronger! It must be all the trail runs!! And although it is still slow by most people’s standards, for me this is great! I know I can keep improving and just have to dig deep when the wind knocks me down :) As long as I’m growing as a runner..I will keep on!

This was a fantastic trail for a race! A great place to to try for your first Ultra for sure!! All in all a great race!!! Had a great time and really loved the scenery..despite the wind trying to suck it out of me:) This also mean I have a new mileage PR for this year. October just took over with 62.35mi from August!!

Next onto Gobbler Grind on 11/21. While I will try to cut some time, this one is tricky due to the rolling hills on the trail section and the pretty steady ones on the open road section which if the wind is blowing can really kick you!! But a girl can try right :)

Happy November!!!

Winter/Spring 2011 Hopes and Dreams

2010-10-28T15:30:00.000-05:00

There is definitely more than a slight nip to the air! It was officially cold this morning and we actually have a freeze warning overnight. BUT it is practically November after all and despite the cold mornings, the day time highs have been pretty nice…from a running standpoint :) It been really nice to actually have an Autumn this year and it can totally stay this way and I would personally love that!

So..we are getting ready to go into Winter fairly soon, which means end of the year is getting closer by the day and I’m thinking of what my Spring running goals should be. You’ve likely heard me hint at attempting a Marathon in Spring 2011 and I’ve toyed with several and am having trouble deciding on one. Most seem to be around the April time frame, which gives me 6 months to train and do it smart. While I realize this is likely more time than needed, I want to give myself enough time to build base and do things correctly without overtraining and causing any injuries.

I’ve also been really enjoying my trail runs these last few months and have felt myself getting stronger and (slightly) faster and more confident in my footing as time goes by. I’ve done far more miles on trail than on pavement or paved trails since summer. I’ve slowly built up to around 10miles on trail and will continue to add to it over the cold months. Time to invest in a Yaktrax, a good hydration pack and break out the headlamp for those evening runs!

So…guess I’m putting it down in black and white now. I’m going to shoot for a Trail Marathon at the Mizuno Cabrakan FreeState Trail Run on April 23, 2011!

OK…it’s out there so that’ll keep me accountable! This will be a good one as the cut off time is based on the Ultra races and I won’t feel that added pressure on my first 26.2 attempt on trail! Better start praying now that it won’t be AS muddy as what you see in the picture! and who knows depending on how my training goes, there may be a Brew to Brew run and maybe, just maybe a another long distance race in there somewhere ;)

Next Up…Veterans Day 4mi Trail Run and Gobbler Grind Half Marathon! Time to start the work that is needed to make those hopes and dreams a reality!!

Fall Fell Trail Run (7mi) Report

2010-10-17T16:15:00.000-05:00

AWESOME!! Absolutely LOVED my very first time doing a water crossing!!

Ok, let me back up! This was another great KC Trail Nerds and Mudbabe event! And of course a huge shoutout to Dick Ross at SeeKCrun for these great pics!!

The race started at 9am (another reason I love these events). After breakfast of 2 Eggo Waffles smeared with Nutella yummy goodness and a half cup of milk, followed by a 10min panic because I could not find my car keys that I had apparently put in my bag of stuff yesterday..I got to Kill Creek Park with 30mins to spare. I signed the waiver, paid my $8 plus my small $2 contribution to keep trails managed, listened to Bad Ben’s instructions and we were off towards the trails!

I ran with two other Mudbabes that I’ve started to keep pace with, Lisa and Rachel. They both ran the KC Half Marathon yesterday, so were taking this one easy. I doubt I would have that kind of legs to keep me running 7miles on trails after a pretty hilly half. You ladies are awesome!! Lisa lead the first 2 miles or so and then we switched to where I was up front. For some time, we did not see any of the pink flags that mark the trail, but it was pretty much one path, so I kept moving. The course was pretty technical and had tons of rocks. All the fallen leaves made it a little tricky at times to see some of the loose rocks. But we were doing well…and then it was time to cross the creek!! My first time crossing water! I took it easy for the first section and it looked a little slippery, but decided to just go into the water during the latter half.

The crossing led to the out and back section with a lollipop loop for the turn around. That section kicked butt!!! This was where a lot of walking came in, as we also had to move for the faster runners on their way back! Speedsters :) It constantly amazes me how some of these runners can run 7-8 min mile paces on such rocky terrain! Crazy and Amazing group! Once we turned around and was abut half way, I got the ok for Lisa and Rachel to keep going, so I went on. Hit the creek crossing again and this time just went for it, splashing water and all :) Thank Goodness for trail shoes that drain really well. After crossing the water, I felt pretty good like it revived me. So during the latter part I felt good and was able to finish strong! Finish time according the Garmin was 1:40:13. I know it seems pretty slow for some, but I was pretty thrilled to break the 15min/mile for a trail race!!! Yey for a pair of Mizuno moisture wicking socks thanks to our awesome Mudbabe leader Sophia making sure I had one :) Muddy Hugs and we missed her today as she was working!!

Got home, downed some Hammer Recoverite, did an hour of p90x X stretch and chilled with Recovery socks on! My IT band seemed to hold up today as well. Gotta keep on that yoga, foam rolling and sticking. This afternoon I looked back at the races I’ve done this year and of the 8 completed so far, 4 have been Trail races. And looks like I’ve got 2 more before 2011! Hmmm…think I’ve grown to like this trail running past time :) Might be time to get me of these too!!

Tomorrow we’ve got a Mizuno Run With Us event, so it’ll be paved trail running and adding mileage as I build towards Gobbler Grind Half Marathon. Bring it!!!

There’s a chill in the air!! Time to shape up!

2010-10-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

Oh yes, Autumn is here! And looks like we might actually have more than a week or two this time around.

Things have been quiet on the running front. Most of this last month was spent making final preparation for a conference that I co-chaired. I was in Ft. Lauderdale for about 8 days and got back last week and while I did get some beach running in, all the time spent on my feet did not make for great runs. Regardless I loved doing it and the runs I did get in were along A1A and good or bad, you simply cannot beat that view in my book!! Yes, it was not the cool Fall weather we all love to run in, but the sound of the ocean waves crashing, sea gulls squawking and the amazing views of the sun rising cannot be beat in this ocean girls mind!

Run/walk on the beach..and wow was that tough!!

Can you beat these views of the sun rising? Bliss!!

And my idea of heaven!!

I was hoping to catch up with Amanda from Run to Finish while I was there, but we were simply not able to get out our schedules to align, the busy people we are :) Next time for sure!! Sadly I had to leave all that blue azure heaven and ocean sounds behind and head back in Kansas! I hope to get back there sooner than later :) Until then…..

And now onto to my running related items. I’ve got a few races planned. A 7mi trail race this weekend on a trail that is brand new to me, which includes a stream crossing…exciting and nervous! Then a possible 10k at the Pilgrim Pacer race in the KC area and onto the Gobbler Grind Half Marathon on 11/21, race in my backyard so to speak. I’ll likely sprinkle a few trail races when they come by :) Most of them are $8, so its not a killer in the pocket book.

I’ve been very flexible and relaxed with my running over the summer and most of them have been on technical trails. Time to get my butt in gear for GG 2010! I plan on incorporating trails and paved trails in working up the race and being diligent about my yoga and stretching to avoid injury.

I’m also very seriously contemplating of what race I would like to do for my FIRST marathon endeavor! I’d like to keep it close to home for cost reasons and looking at the Spring 2011 time frame, which gives me plenty to pick from! And I’ve not fully settled on whether the first would be paved or trail!!!! Choice, choices!!!

Can’t leave without a huge shout out the Fair Weather Runner who ran amazing Chicago Marathon. So proud of you!!! And also shout outs to the amazing Lea, Rachel, and Liz who also ran a killer race in pretty hot conditions! And not forgetting Kristen, Hannah and Lacy who raced the inaugural Wichita Prairie Fire Marathon and Half. Congrats ladies, you all rock!!

Good Luck to Jesse on his BQ attempt this Saturday at the Kansas City Marathon!!

Happy Running no matter where it may be!!

Summer Running and do i see Fall coming??

2010-09-22T22:30:00.000-05:00

Can I just say….do I see come Autumn like weather coming up?? so very excited to get rid of some of this heat and humidity!

Summer Success #1 - Despite the awesome (Not!!) heat and high humidity we had this year, I did managed to get some pretty decent mileage in July and August. They happened to be my highest mileage months to day :) Makes me a happy girl! I’m hoping this will reap me some rewards come fall weather. Of course this did cause me some IT band issues and I had to take a 2 week break from running this month, but its always a learning process and I know that with some work and TLC I’ll get this resolved.

Summer Success #2 – One of the biggest issue I had while running when the heat was at it’s peak, was calf cramps…which were ridiculous!! I used Nuun and GU for nutrition so far, but obviously this needed a something with a little more heat-proofing. In comes Hammer Nutrition! I ordered their Powder Sampler Kit after reading some recommendations on the website, I tried Hammer HEED and Recoverite.

HEED worked AWeSoMe for me!!! I have not had any cramps since then and I’ve not even used the Endurolytes that came with the sampler pack. Since then I’ve used HEED for my sole source of nutrition and its worked wonderfully. As recommended on the website, I used Perpetuem Caffe Latte for my workouts beyond 2hrs and then post run used Recoverite. Ok…so the taste while subtle does take some getting used to Recoverite worked great for me. I experienced very little soreness after my longer runs ( now this does not include my ITB pain of course). So after some experimenting, I think I may have found what works for me as far as Nutrition. Whohoo!!

Summer Success #3 – TRAIL RUNNING!!! If you’ve been reading my blog for the last few months, you would have seen that I’ve ventured off-road. I ran my first Intro Summer Trail Race in May and since then joined the Kansas City Trail Nerds and have been running with the awesome MudBabes every Monday! I’ve always been a solo runner and joining the group was tough for me. I was not sure how I’d fit in…but lo and behold, guess I didn’t really need to worry too much. The Mudbabes are an awesome group of ladies who made me comfortable right at that first run! They have a place for everyone, fast, medium, slow.whatever speed, they accept us all! Since then I’ve run my first Night Trail run and my longest Trail race to date. While the running has been great, the best Success here are the people I’ve met!

Summer Success #4 – Not directly running related, but all the great times spent with friends has been awesome. With the hubby being laid off and working part time, it’s been a rough time to say the least. Between his part time schedule and my work schedule, we don’t get to see each other much. While running has helped me de-stress, the people that running has brought into my life have kept me sane and on-track these last few months. And THIS has been the best Success so far!!!

I’m off to Ft. Lauderdale next Wednesday for a conference and will be out there for 8 days. Looking forward to some Florida Running when I can squeeze it in!!

And I’m out!!

We will Never Forget! A Runner’s Tribute to 9/11

2010-09-12T15:30:00.000-05:00

It is September 12, 2010, 9yrs and 1 day from the tragic events of September 11, 2001! Many around the country spent yesterday remembering their loved ones who died that day, the brave firefighters and other service men and women that lost their lives trying to save others. KC area runners spent 9hrs and 11mins participating in the Annual Patriots Run at the Great Mall in Olathe, Kansas to commemorate the tragic events of September 11th 2001. The event remembers, not only those who were lost, but also soldiers, police, firefighters and others who served our country both on that day and every day thereafter. I was not able to run the event, but went out last evening to support a few of my runner friends participating in this awesome event!

For just $25 you can run a 1mil, 5k, 10k, 26.2 marathon distance or go beyond. So you can run, walk as much or as little as your body and heart will carry you. I was honored to talk to Greg Vaughn who is the man and flag behind Stride of Pride. Greg ran in memory of John Glaser, a local firefighter who lost his life on 9/11. He ran from John's station in Shawnee to the start of the Patriots' Run at the Great Mall in Olathe and continued running for 9hrs and 11mins for a total of 45miles for the day and presented his flag and medal to John's parents! Just writing about it brings tears to my eyes. What an unbelievable tribute! check out Greg’s efforts on his website above.

My fellow local Daily Mile runner, Robert looked strong out there! Running in the later hours, he finished 9.11miles! Way to Go Robert! Sorry the picture is a little blurry, hope you don’t mind me highlighting you, but it was a such a great coincidence :)

Congrats to DM’er Jim B., who despite collapsing of dehydration and needing medical assistance was determined to finish his 26.2miles and do his part! I was lucky enough to see Sherrie, another KC DM’er get her first official Ultra Run in. Sherrie ran strong for the full 9hrs and 11min to get 47.75miles under her superstar belt!! So incredible and inspiring and her motivation was all the service men and women who risk their lives daily!

What an event!! Its a tough course as the sun blazes down on you and their is no shade at all! But if the troops deployed can do this…these runners motivated by all of their efforts put their heart and soul into this run! During the pasta dinner Friday night was when Afghanistan Patriots Run kicked off.

And then we have Wichita, KS runner Tony Clark who is running to honor those who have sacrificed so much. Tony’s goal to raise $25,000 for the Wounded Warriors of America project was surpassed. Tony started his run at 10pm on Thursday September 9th, 2010, at the Nebraska Border and and ended 59.5hrs and 224miles later at the Kansas-Oklahoma border. Continue Tony’s efforts by clicking on the link in the picture.
Can you say AMAZING!!!!

I’m sure there were countless other amazing tributes and efforts to commemorate this heart breaking event in our country’s history! These are few that I’m closer to and have been incredibly inspired by. As runners we our always looking for that PR or the next great race. These folks are enjoying the best sense of accomplishment by dedicating their running efforts to the courageous service men and women out there keeping us safe every day! And if you happen to achieve a major milestone…that would no doubt be the icing on the cake!! Congratulations to all your amazing running and amazing examples of how the right motivation can make all the difference! And Thank You to all the dedicated and brave service men and women in all areas who put their heart and soul to protect all of us every day! We will never forget and are honored by your dedication and sacrifice!

Friendship, Beer and a right ‘Royal’ Surprise

2010-09-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

If you read my last post, I mentioned briefly Fair Weather Runner, the Edder, Sherpa and I had some awesome festivities over Labor day weekend. There was a little bit of running (already covered) lots of laughs, good food and lots of beer and a ‘Royal’ surprise! Be warned…LOTS of pictures :)

The FWR and her Hubby, the Edder were in town and staying with us for a extended Birthday celebration for him. We planned on the girls getting some running in Saturday morning, hitting up a KC Royals baseball game in the ‘economical’ seats Saturday evening and concluding with a Free Boulevard Brewery tour Sunday afternoon. Both couples are on a tight budgets so fun on a shoestring budget was the plan!

Due to some ‘unforeseen’ circumstances on our guests part :) FWR and the Edder had to come on to town earlier than planned. Lucky me!!! While Edder took a afternoon siesta, FWR and I headed out and got some errands done. Errands being checking out Pilgrim Pacer site, grabbing some movies to keep us occupied while my Hubs was working and of course Cupcakes!! Beer was already stocked!

That evening the three of us headed to the awesomest burger place ever..Blanc Burgers and Bottles for dinner. Poor Hubs had to miss this :(

So sad that sherpa, Running Lawyer and Running Worm are Missing :(

But still happy that we are here, enjoying some delicious sweet potato and truffle fries with great beer and of course BURGERS!! I had a Belgium style beer called La fin du Monde…it was a beer with some zingyness and citrusy goodness!

We had an early night as the girls had a early morning the next day. After a good morning of running and light lunch, we headed out early to the Royals game. Plan was to get there 2hrs before gates opened and grab the Dri Duck $7 tickets and wait for hubby who was getting off work early. He got in earlier than planned and so we grabbed tickets, went in and walked around the new Kaufmann Stadium. This was Beka and Ed’s first time here since it was renovated a year ago. We walked, chilled out grabbing some yummy Boulevard Bob’s Oktoberfest beer and then headed to our seats.

We had been sitting no more than 5mins at our seats when we were approached by a Promotional team members and she asked if it was just the four of us..yes it was! She then let us know that the KC Royals owner was not using four of his tickets tonight and wanted her to give it away. AWESOME!!! We were being upgraded from $7 seats to $240 Owner's seats (Seats A1- A4, right up front) at the Crown Club which included all the free food and beer we wanted…SURPRISE!!!!! It was freaking unbelievable!! Stuff like this never happens to us and we all needed a a break and were in shock through the night! Full dinner buffet, all the booze we could want and seat-side service!!! Best seats in the stadium!!!

OH What a night!!! Back home a couple of beers and off to bed still on a fabulous high!! Sunday morning a good breakfast to start the day off….

And off to tour the Boulevard Brewery where Ashley, the Running dork and her Hubby Randy would meet us. Cool tour, and of course the beer tasting and ended the friend time with a stop at Flying Saucer Draft Emporium for lunch.

Great Food, Great Beer, Great Times with Awesome Company!! Now that was one hell of a labor day weekend!!!

Clinton North Shore Trail Run Report

2010-09-07T21:45:00.000-05:00

My third official race since I started trail running over the summer and this one, just like the others did not disappoint! The race was close to my workplace in Lawrence by Clinton Lake and called for 8.5 longish miles. When it was all said and done my Garmin clocked 9.13mi…and I didn’t even get lost! Awesome!!

The Fair Weather Runner and Edder was in town and staying with us enjoying part of the long weekend, more to come on those awesome festivities! So while my hubby, the Sherpa headed to work and FWR’s hubby got some work of his own done, she and I headed to Lawrence after making sure to get my favorite Athletic supporter a caffeinated beverage of her choice. She got some nice hilly miles in while I ran as well! The race started at 9am and we got there in time for on-site registration. Yep another a wallet busting (NOT) $8! Stretched a little, got some post-race pictures and catch up done and we were ready to go.

We started off about 0.5mi or so in an open field and then up a paved road section into the trees! You could not have asked for a more wonderful day for a trail run! It was about 65F and sunny when we started at 9am and once you headed into the trails it was blissful. Quiet, cool breeze and just your thoughts and a little music to keep me company! If you’ve followed my blog for a while now you know, I’m back of the pack kind of runner :) more so when it comes to trails. So for the most part I was by myself, so making sure I followed the little pink flags marking the course was VERY important! Success..no getting lost.

The trail was a lot of up and down and to me it seemed like there was very little flat. Not very steep, but just enough to make my IT Band very cranky around 4.5mi or so. So there was a lot of walk breaks to ease some of it and stretch out a tight hammy which has been an issue. And to top it off, my allergies were acting up and so there was a lot of mouth breathing as my nose was stuffed up. I took it a mile at a time hoping that the ITB would behave a little nicer:( As FWR says…Meh!! It is what it is!Regardless of it all, the trail was great! I ran into one small muddy patch, no losing shoes on this one. Thank goodness since Kelly wasn’t there to help to fish my shoe out like the last one.

Around Mile 8 I rounded a corner hoping to see the finish and then a few steps later headed back into trails. By mile 8.5 I was still in the trails wondering…hmm, did I make a wrong turn somewhere?! But the trusty pink flags were there and I kept following until I finally came out to the open and saw the finish line. Knee was ready to be done by this point, but I sped up to get around the curve and headed to the finish! And another trail race finish added to the list!

Distance logged according to Garmin – 9.13mi
Official Time - 2:26:07

I would have liked to come under a 15min/mile pace for this and be closer to 2:10 or 2:15, but I definitely wanted to finish under 2:30 and I did that. Given how painful my knee was, I’m happy that I finished and managed to get my goal.

The first place male, trail superstar David Wakefield came in at 1:09:38 and first place female Clara Coffman clocked in at 1:20:33. While I seriously doubt I’ll be anywhere close to those kinds of paces, with more trail runs under my belt, experience on how to best run them, I know I will build some speed as time goes by. In the meantime, I’m simply enjoying spending time with some great athletes who I’ve come to call friends and challenging myself more each time I get out there!!!

Thanks to Fair Weather Runner, Dick Ross at SeeKCRun and Mudbabe Allison for pics. You guys Rock!! Will be back from this one next year. Thanks for another great one KC Trail Nerds and Mudbabes ROCK!!

Little things that make Life worth Living!!

2010-09-06T17:00:00.000-05:00

Marlene at Mission to a(nother) Marathon tagged me on the Happy 101 Award. Ten things I like….make it love and make life worth living (in no particular order)!

1. Digging my toes on white sandy beaches

2. Sunset and ocean breezes

3. The perfect Chocolate milkshake

4. Pineapple Upside down cheesecake (seasonal at Cheesecake factory)

5. Fall colors

6. Anything my stepdad cooks!! (yummy goodness)

7. A fluffy white Denver Omelet

8. Great Seafood

9. My mom’s homemade cooking…totally miss that:(

10. Awesome Cupcakes!

And passing all things good and wonderful to….

Clinton North Shore 8.5miler Trail Race report and Labor day fun times ahead!

CSN Stores Giveaway Winner and August Recap

2010-09-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

Drum roll please…and the winner of the $40 CSN Stores giveaway is Jesse from Run To The Border (a transplanted Canuck’s Running Blog). Winner picked by Random.org in a well very random way!
I’m excited that my first giveaway winner is super speedy runner and a blogger in the KC area that I’ve met! Jesse shoot me a email directly so I can pass your email and full name to their promo team and they will send you a code for the discount.

I followed his blog and he followed mine and we met for the first time at the Night 10k Trail run and so the story goes :) LoL!
Jesse is getting ready for the Kansas City marathon this October and is looking to qualify for Boston. With his speed, commitment and determination I know he’s going to reach that goal in style come 10/16! Oh yeah and did I mention Jesse is Vegan..takes some serious commitment to stick with that in my mind. Go check out his blog and follow his journey to Boston!! Oh and Jesse you’ll have to let me know next time you pick up some of that sweet tea for me to try as well:)

And onto some running related updates. Here is a quick August recap:

Cross Training - 9:40hrs
Running - 58.4 Miles
Strength Training - 5:40hrs

I have to give up my gym membership due to tight budget, so I suspect next months cross training and strength training totals won’t be as good. Time to get creative with some at home workouts. Running went well despite IT Band being a bit of a problem. It was mileage PR in August as I added 4miles to my July total! I’m really thrilled that more than half those miles were trails miles. I got my first Night Trail run and my longest Trail run (10miles) under my belt this month! Looking to start the first weekend in September with the Clinton North Shore Trail Run this weekend.

And what could make a weekend better than to spend time with the Fair Weather Runner and her hubby Ed! They are headed up to KC for some Labor day weekend fun. One trail race, one Royals Baseball game and one Boulevard Brewery tour is on the cards and of course endless sharing and laughter which is always the best part!!

Happy Trails and enjoy your Labor Day weekend plans whether it be with friends or family! Or friends that are pretty much family :)

Celebrating Cooler Temps with a CSN Stores Giveaway

2010-08-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

I was very surprised to be contacted by CSN Stores to host a $40 giveaway for use at one of their stores. My blog is very new and to be honest no where close to the witty, wonderful and engaging writing I read all the time on all your blogs. But I figured it was a great way to give something back to everyone who do enjoy reading my thoughts. So I checked out the multitude of stores they have and due to a severe need for dinnerware sets we have in our household, kind of got stuck in that section.

Why the need? Well…this blogger has a severe case of butter fingers when it comes to plates, bowls..well most things that are required for eating and drinking. We received a beautiful dinnerware set for our wedding and over the last 7yrs…I’ve managed to break, well, let’s just say we do not have a full set of anything right now! Last slip was..hmm I think about 3 weeks ago. Call me Ms. Butter Fingers :) Now with a hint of cooler weather and times for food gathering around a family table increasing, maybe this might be your chance to get some new…or maybe fill those empty spots in your collection.

Of course feel free to go beyond and get anything from their vast array of choices! Here is how you can enter (one entry for each method):

Check out CSN Stores and tell me what you can’t live without for $40 or under with shipping :)
Become a Follower of this Running Sri Lankan and leave a comment.
If you Follow me already, just say Hi.
Link to your blog or tweet about and let me know.

Please note only U.S. and Canadian readers are eligible to participate.

I’ll pick a winner at the August 31, 2010.

Psych Night 10K Trail Run Race Report

2010-08-07T22:41:00.000-05:00

Be warned..its long!!
I DID IT! I finished my longest trail run to date and my very first night race and I absolutely LOVED every tough, rocky, muddy, dark minute of it :)

Thursday night around 8pm I kept telling myself that within 24hrs I’ll be at the starting line of my first Night trail race…the Psyc Night 10k Trail Run. I was a bundle of nerves as this would be the longest trail distance I’ve attempted and of course its at night!!

Friday came around…my usual pre-race nerves set in! I was working from home, so I was able to get in my hydration really well and get all my race bottles nice and cold! Kelly, my friend who was running the race with me picked me up and we headed out to Wyco Park to get our night race on! We got there with plenty of time to register. Yep, a whole $8 and I say it again…for just $8 these are incredible races!! The KC Trail Nerds led by Ben and Sophia do an awesome, awesome job at organizing these super fun events! I finally managed to catch up with Jesse, who did make it out on the right day ;) It was great to meet a fellow blogger. We chatted awhile before race start and that was last I saw of him…oh wait, I did see him when he was zooming by me on the out and back. He was headed back as I was still heading in. He did great and finished 4th I think!

Here is Kelly (the only guy in the picture), myself, Hayley (in pink) and the original Mudbabe herself, Sophia before the race started. Mudbabes Rock! Fellow Mudbabe Hayley kicked butt at the race :)After some hilarious, but useful pre-race instructions we were off! We ran through the grassy area and headed into the trails…and what a trail it was! Now I know why they say the Summer into course was easier, this was tough!! There was lots of rocky inclines, which of course meant rocky down hills, narrow sections, turns and of course all the while we are slowly losing light. Ben said that this was the driest the course has been since 2006 or so, but hello…there were some pretty nice mud pits through the course. There was a lot of avoiding fallen free trunks, tree branches that seem to reach out to you, maneuvering through or around the muddy sections, and in my case, mostly hiking up and down the rocky sections. At one point we stopped to help out a fellow runner who lost her shoe in the mud. While she looked for her, she did find another lost one. We looked for a few minutes, yeah it was buried nicely in there and she just told the everyone to go ahead. A few steps later, she found it…just as I managed to get my foot stuck in the mud and lose my left shoe. I tried to fish it out, but it was pretty stuck. Kelly put some muscle in and got it out. I managed to get it back on. Yey for lock laces!! They kept my shoes in place for most of the race. The course was an out and back, with a ‘lollipop’ as the turn around. The entire course was crazy fun and tough, BUT my favorite part had to be this lollipop section. It was just going in crazy twists and turns for one entire mile! I had no idea which way I was headed, Kelly and I just kept following the pink course flag and kept going…it was a blast not knowing what was around the next corner! You see the aid station before you enter and then hit it right as you get out. These were some wonderful volunteers! I swear it could have been a little souvenir shop in the middle of the course..complete with leis! Awesome!!

I went in the to the race with the following goals -

1. Have fun and enjoy a new challenge - DONE
2. Finish under 2hrs – I’m pretty sure its Done
3. Finish without any injuries – DONE!!

SUCCESS on all three goals!!!

I totally forgot to start and stop my Garmin at the correct times, but I think I finished between 1:50:00 – 2:00:00. Yep, slowest 10k time ever and totally back of the pack, but it was a blast and as hard as they some as far as races…at least for me!

Lessons learned from this race -

Make sure headlamp is tight and secure. Mine kept coming loose due to all the sweat..and there was a lot of sweat!
Suck it up and do more hills! The rocky inclines totally kicked my butt.
Ensure laces are night and secure..thanks goodness for lock laces :)
Be alert mentally, even when you are super tired! I almost ran into a fallen tree trunk..mental alertness is KEY in these trail races or you are guaranteed to get injured.

A huge thanks to Ben, Sophia and KC Trail Nerds and Mudbabes volunteers who made this another great race to remember. You guys sure know how to throw a great race!
A huge thanks to Dick Ross at SeeKCrun for amazing photos once again! All the photos you see on this post are courtesy of him! A great KC running community supporter!
A huge thanks to Kelly, my running partner for this race! He was awesome and stuck with me the whole time and I’m sure I would have gotten lost without him :) I’m pretty sure he could have finished way quicker, but he was great and kept my slow as molasses butt moving!! Thanks Kelly!!

The Trail Nerds website states this is the oldest night race in the Midwest. This year there were a 114 runners participate, 50 more than last year, and I have no doubt this race will continue to grow! If you’ve never done a night race and live in the KC vicinity, it’s totally worth checking this one out! You will never find a better time for $8, where you can run, enjoy the amazing experience of running at night and getting to meet a unique and wonderful group of trail runners! Amazing organization, wonderful volunteers and an all around rockin’ good time!! It’ll be on my list for next year for sure!!