2017.
All I can say is it was a very tough and difficult year for me. So many downs and not enough ups. I did run everyday, but some days that was not what I wanted to be doing. But, I needed running. It was my escape and also the routine that I needed. Maybe someday I will talk about the past two years that changed my life forever, but I'm not ready. I pray that 2018 will be different. I pray that I will have more hope, joy and happiness. Living under the cloud of severe depression and anxiety is soul crushing.
I did not run any official races and I'm fine with that. I did participate in three virtual races. It was easy to run in the virtual races because I just did them in my morning run. No special place to drive to, no specific race time and no crowds. The VR races were just easy and fun. I don't know if I will run in any official races in 2018, but I'm OK with that. Running everyday is enough for me at the moment.
2017: 2176.7
2016: 2648.2
2015: 3710.4
2014: 4548.4
2013: 5079
2012: 5213.3
2011: 5745
2010: 2764.9
2009: 1257.9
2008: 960.2
2007: 573.7
2006: 470
2005: 350.8
2004: 318.6
Showing posts with label Running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Running. Show all posts
Thursday, January 04, 2018
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Miles run in 2016
2016 was not my year in many more ways than one. I would say it was the most difficult year of my life. So many things happened: good and bad. I found out what I'm made of. I found that I'm stronger then I give myself credit for. I found out who loves and cares for me. I grew in my faith. I'll never forget the year 2016, but it is time to move on and live life to the fullest.
I didn't run any races longer than a 10K, and that is OK. I ran everyday in 2016 and also ran less miles. With so much going on in my life, I figured it was OK to tone down my miles. I knew I wasn't training for any major races, so it was the perfect time. If I desire to run a half marathon again, I know I can increase my mileage. But for now, running 6-7 miles a day is fine for me. It fits my life.
So here is to 2017. I know it will be a much better year than 2016. I'm ready to be happy and love life.
Total miles run for the year:
2016: 2648.2
2015: 3710.4
2014: 4548.4
2013: 5079
2012: 5213.3
2011: 5745
2010: 2764.9
2009: 1257.9
2008: 960.2
2007: 573.7
2006: 470
2005: 350.8
2004: 318.6
I didn't run any races longer than a 10K, and that is OK. I ran everyday in 2016 and also ran less miles. With so much going on in my life, I figured it was OK to tone down my miles. I knew I wasn't training for any major races, so it was the perfect time. If I desire to run a half marathon again, I know I can increase my mileage. But for now, running 6-7 miles a day is fine for me. It fits my life.
So here is to 2017. I know it will be a much better year than 2016. I'm ready to be happy and love life.
Total miles run for the year:
2016: 2648.2
2015: 3710.4
2014: 4548.4
2013: 5079
2012: 5213.3
2011: 5745
2010: 2764.9
2009: 1257.9
2008: 960.2
2007: 573.7
2006: 470
2005: 350.8
2004: 318.6
Monday, May 09, 2016
Addison Athletic Booster 5K
I ran the Addison Athletic Booster 5K Saturday. It was a nice, slightly windy day to run in the country.
When the horn went off, I found myself in the middle. I was between the fast and the slower packs with no one close by. I have run this race multiple times and the course is always the same. No mile markers out of the course, so I didn't even look at my watch.
I thought I did well on the hills in the beginning half of the race. The later hills got me. The younger girl that kind of close to me started to really separate from me on one of the last hills. She just kept getting further away from me. The second to last turn, I knew I had runners closing in on me. A volunteer was at the corner and I could hear him tell whoever was behind me 'good job'. I was trying my best to keep them behind me.
The last stretch of road on the course goes from flat to hill. When I was running up the hill, I could hear footsteps behind me. Making the last turn, I heard a female talking right behind me. I knew that I didn't want her to pass me. I started sprinting towards the finish line. I heard her say 'good job' to me as I was running away. I crossed the finish line in 28:38. I placed second in my age group and was the fourth overall woman. The woman behind me ran with her husband and finished about 5-10 seconds after me.
I thought I did enough build up on hills on my weekly runs. I was wrong. I should probably start running hills/incline every week. I want to power up the hills, not get tired on them.
When the horn went off, I found myself in the middle. I was between the fast and the slower packs with no one close by. I have run this race multiple times and the course is always the same. No mile markers out of the course, so I didn't even look at my watch.
I thought I did well on the hills in the beginning half of the race. The later hills got me. The younger girl that kind of close to me started to really separate from me on one of the last hills. She just kept getting further away from me. The second to last turn, I knew I had runners closing in on me. A volunteer was at the corner and I could hear him tell whoever was behind me 'good job'. I was trying my best to keep them behind me.
The last stretch of road on the course goes from flat to hill. When I was running up the hill, I could hear footsteps behind me. Making the last turn, I heard a female talking right behind me. I knew that I didn't want her to pass me. I started sprinting towards the finish line. I heard her say 'good job' to me as I was running away. I crossed the finish line in 28:38. I placed second in my age group and was the fourth overall woman. The woman behind me ran with her husband and finished about 5-10 seconds after me.
I thought I did enough build up on hills on my weekly runs. I was wrong. I should probably start running hills/incline every week. I want to power up the hills, not get tired on them.
Tuesday, February 09, 2016
Hot Chocolate Hustle 5K
I ran my first race of the 2016 season Saturday. I wasn't planning on running it until a friend told me too. I wasn't scheduled to work that morning, so I sent in my entry form.
The morning was a chilly and the roads were dry. No snow on the ground this year like last year. I ran the race in an Oiselle long sleeve shirt, Oiselle jacket, Oiselle roga long shorts, compression socks and gloves. My legs were a little cold, but warmed up after the race started.
For the first race of the year, I had no goals. I just wanted to finish and try to have fun. I passed a younger runner during the first mile, but was unable to catch the group in front of me. I ran the first mile in 8:27. I was running alone during the second mile until two ladies caught and passed me. I wasn't able to keep up with them. Shortly after the ladies passed me, a man caught and passed me too. I was keeping a good pace until I developed some stomach cramps during the second mile. I tried to not let them bother me too much. I don't think I slowed down, but I may have.
Before finishing the race, the course turned right into a subdivision. We had to run around a small block before running to the finish line. When I turned the corner into the subdivision, my watch said 24:xx. I was happy with the time, but I knew I needed to speed up if I wanted to finish under 27 minutes. When I left the subdivision and was running toward the finish line, people watching were yelling for a man behind me. I didn't know how close he was, but I didn't want him to pass me. I ran as fast as I could to the line. I stopped my watch at 27 minutes. According to the official timer, I finished the race in 26:59. I placed second in my age group.
I was happy with my first race of the year. I'm happy my friend urged me to sign up and run. Running is a joy and I need to always remember that.
The morning was a chilly and the roads were dry. No snow on the ground this year like last year. I ran the race in an Oiselle long sleeve shirt, Oiselle jacket, Oiselle roga long shorts, compression socks and gloves. My legs were a little cold, but warmed up after the race started.
For the first race of the year, I had no goals. I just wanted to finish and try to have fun. I passed a younger runner during the first mile, but was unable to catch the group in front of me. I ran the first mile in 8:27. I was running alone during the second mile until two ladies caught and passed me. I wasn't able to keep up with them. Shortly after the ladies passed me, a man caught and passed me too. I was keeping a good pace until I developed some stomach cramps during the second mile. I tried to not let them bother me too much. I don't think I slowed down, but I may have.
Before finishing the race, the course turned right into a subdivision. We had to run around a small block before running to the finish line. When I turned the corner into the subdivision, my watch said 24:xx. I was happy with the time, but I knew I needed to speed up if I wanted to finish under 27 minutes. When I left the subdivision and was running toward the finish line, people watching were yelling for a man behind me. I didn't know how close he was, but I didn't want him to pass me. I ran as fast as I could to the line. I stopped my watch at 27 minutes. According to the official timer, I finished the race in 26:59. I placed second in my age group.
I was happy with my first race of the year. I'm happy my friend urged me to sign up and run. Running is a joy and I need to always remember that.
Monday, January 04, 2016
Miles run in 2015 - final count
I really didn't have a running goal for 2015. I guess my goal was to run healthy. I think that happened. I ran everyday this year. That is something that I have never done before. I'm happy with my mileage. I didn't run 13 miles everyday. The last part of the year, I only ran up to 11 miles. That is fine with me. I'm not trying to impress anyone with my mileage. I'm doing what makes me happy and feel good.
I will continue to keep running in 2016. I don't know if I will run a couple of half marathons this year that are out of town. Money will be tight this coming year, so I plan on participating in races that take place in the county I live.
Total miles run for the year:
2015: 3710.4
2014: 4548.4
2013: 5079
2012: 5213.3
2011: 5745
2010: 2764.9
2009: 1257.9
2008: 960.2
2007: 573.7
2006: 470
2005: 350.8
2004: 318.6
I will continue to keep running in 2016. I don't know if I will run a couple of half marathons this year that are out of town. Money will be tight this coming year, so I plan on participating in races that take place in the county I live.
Total miles run for the year:
2015: 3710.4
2014: 4548.4
2013: 5079
2012: 5213.3
2011: 5745
2010: 2764.9
2009: 1257.9
2008: 960.2
2007: 573.7
2006: 470
2005: 350.8
2004: 318.6
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Race series
I ran in a race series over the 2015 season. The series was made up of six races. To be entered into the race series, you had to run four of the six races. I ran five out of six races. Even though I ran five, only my top four races counted.
I am happy to say that I finished second in my age group for the 2015 race series. The winner of my age group Trina, had a perfect score of 40 points. She won our age group in the four races she entered. I finished behind Trina with 30 points. In the races I ran against Trina, I was second once and third two times. I also ran two races that Trina did not. I was first in one and third in my age group in another.
I'm not sure if the age group winners are supposed to receive anything for placing in the top three of the each age group. I'm just happy to finish in the top three because the competition is tough. I plan to work over the winter and hope to place again in the 2016 race series.
I am happy to say that I finished second in my age group for the 2015 race series. The winner of my age group Trina, had a perfect score of 40 points. She won our age group in the four races she entered. I finished behind Trina with 30 points. In the races I ran against Trina, I was second once and third two times. I also ran two races that Trina did not. I was first in one and third in my age group in another.
I'm not sure if the age group winners are supposed to receive anything for placing in the top three of the each age group. I'm just happy to finish in the top three because the competition is tough. I plan to work over the winter and hope to place again in the 2016 race series.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Michigan
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The Michigan men's team finished ninth at the cross country nationals with 348 points. Syracuse Orangmen won the title with 82 points over last year's champion Colorado Buffaloes 91 points. Winning the individual 10K title was Edward Cheserek from Oregon in 28:45.8. Mason Ferlic was the highest placing finisher for Michigan in 67th place in 30:42.3. Coming in behind Ferlic was Tony Smoragiewicz (72nd - 30:44.3), Ben Flanagan (83rd - 30:49.8), Nick Renberg (92nd - 30:53.7) and Connor Mora (129th - 31:13.7).
The University of Michigan football team also played Saturday. The Wolverines traveled to Penn State.
The Wolverines defeated Penn State 28-16. Quarterback Jake Rudock threw for 256 yards and two touchdowns. Taco Charlton had three tackles for losses and two sacks.
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Michigan wraps up the regular season Saturday when they host Ohio State. The game will start at 12 p.m. ET.
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Tuesday, November 17, 2015
NCAA Great Lakes Regional
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Leading the way for the men was overall winner Mason Ferlic, who won the 8K race in 30:18.3. The other Wolverine finishers were Ben Flanagan (11th - 30:54.2), Nick Renberg (15th - 31:08.4), Tony Smoragiewicz (18th - 31:12.0) and Aaron Baumgarten (22nd - 31:15.4). Michigan won the reginal title with 67 points over Michigan State, 88 points. Eastern Michigan finished third with 102 points.
On the women's side, Erin Finn lead Michigan to a fifth place finish in the 6K race in 20:44.3. Winning the individual title was Molly Seidel from Notre Dame in 20:04.4. Placing for U-M was Anna Pasternak (11th - 20:54.7), Shannon Osika (16th - 20:59.6), Gina Sereno (17th - 21:00.0) and Jaimie Phelan (20th - 21:01.4). Michigan won the title with 69 points over Notre Dame's 79 points. Michigan State was third with 88 points.
Both U-M teams will run again at the NCAA Championships in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, November 21.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Fall Into Fitness 5K
It was a nice, warm and sunny day to race. I ran in a stocking hat, long sleeve Oiselle shirt, Oiselle shorts, compression socks and shoes. My hands were a little chilly at the start of the race, but they eventually warmed up.
I ran in a group for the about 2 miles of the race. Then like always, I started to slow down as they kept up their pace. I was running behind a boy, who happens to be my next door neighbor's grandson, every time I would get right beside him, he would sprint ahead. We played this game for practically the entire race. The last four blocks he pulled ahead for good and I was unable to catch him.
I thought I ran a good race. I was very happy to run 26:24, which placed me first in my age group. It was also my fastest 5K for the year by 23 seconds. I guess all of the intervals that I have been doing has paid off. Or that the course was very flat. Either or, I'm still pleased with my race.
Closing the book on the 2015 racing season makes me happy. I can just run for fun. Not worry about my mileage and recharge for the 2016 racing season. I hope that next year, that I can lower my half marathon times.
Tuesday, November 03, 2015
Big Ten Cross Country Championships
Matt McClintock from Purdue was the individual champion winning in 23:12.1 over Michigan's Mason Ferlic (23:19.6). Michigan placed three runners in the top 10 to secure the title: Ferlic (2nd), Ben Flanagan (8th - 23:42.6) and Tony Smoragiewicz (9th - 23:43.6).
On the women's side, Michigan's Erin Finn was the individual winner in 19:44.9. Finn is now a two time Big Ten Champion. Coming in second behind Finn was Michigan State's Alexis Wiersma in 19:49.9. Despite Finn's individual win, Penn State won the Big Ten team championship. Penn State defeated Michigan 53-58 to win the title. Penn State and Michigan both had three runners in the top 10. Penn State just had higher finishes. Wolverine runners that placed in the top 10 were Finn (1st), Jaimie Phelan (8th - 20:17.2) and Gina Sereno (10th - 20:18.4). Penn State's runners placed fourth, sixth and ninth to secure the victory.
The Wolverines will run again Friday, November 13 at the NCAA Great Lakes Regional in Madison, Wisconsin at 1 p.m. ET.
Monday, October 19, 2015
NCAA Cross Country Pre-Nationals
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Michigan placed four runners in the top 40 and won with a total of 131 points. Colorado was second with 151 points and Oregon was third with 175 points.
Michigan's Erin Finn led early in the 6000 meter race, but ended up finishing in sixth place with a time of 20:09.1. Winning the race was Colorado's Erin Clark in 20:00.5. Michigan's other top finishers were Shannon Osika (13th - 20:16.5), Gina Serno (35th - 20:37.4), Jaimie Phelan (38th - 20:40.1) and Anna Pasternak (52nd - 20:46.4).
Michigan runs again Friday at the EMU Classic at the Mills Metropark in Dexter, Michigan.
Monday, September 14, 2015
Live Centred Half Marathon
I ran the LiveCentred Half Marathon Saturday. It was a cool and windy for the entire race. Just walking around before the race, my legs felt dead. I thought I cut back my running enough for the half, but I guess not. Besides running the half marathon Saturday morning, immediately after the half was my friend's memorial across town and following that my husband and I were celebrating our upcoming 14th wedding anniversary. So my head and heart weren't really into this race.
The race started and I was doing well. I ran the first mile in 8 minutes and was going at my pace. When we left the neighborhoods and got out into the country, we ran into a headwind for a couple of miles. The wind was really slowing me down as were all of the rolling hills of the country roads. I just kept my head down and kept running.
It seems like so many people passed me. When people passed me, they were rarely alone. It was always a group of people. I wanted to stay with all of the groups that passed me, but I couldn't. My legs couldn't go any faster. At the six mile mark, I was at about 56 or 57 minutes. Not bad. But on the back half of the course, I was dying. More and more people passed me and there was nothing I could do. I just kept telling myself, the faster I finish, the faster I can go to the memorial.
During the final mile, I was running uphill on a dirt road to turn left onto a paved one. While on the the small uphill, my legs said no more. I had to stop and walk up the hill. That was the first time in years I have walked during a half marathon. I couldn't believe it. As soon as I reached the top of the hill and stepped on the paved road, I started running again. I knew the walking slowed me down even more, but I didn't care. I just wanted to see that finish line. I continued running my slow pace and finally reached the finish line in 2:12:57. My worst half time of the year.
With this time, I know for the next half marathon to cut my miles even more leading up to the race. Maybe my legs won't be so dead before the start. Also I hope to have my head and heart in the race, but sometimes life happens. We can't always control everything in our lives. My time wasn't what I wanted, but I did finish the race and didn't get injured. So that is always a victory.
The race started and I was doing well. I ran the first mile in 8 minutes and was going at my pace. When we left the neighborhoods and got out into the country, we ran into a headwind for a couple of miles. The wind was really slowing me down as were all of the rolling hills of the country roads. I just kept my head down and kept running.
It seems like so many people passed me. When people passed me, they were rarely alone. It was always a group of people. I wanted to stay with all of the groups that passed me, but I couldn't. My legs couldn't go any faster. At the six mile mark, I was at about 56 or 57 minutes. Not bad. But on the back half of the course, I was dying. More and more people passed me and there was nothing I could do. I just kept telling myself, the faster I finish, the faster I can go to the memorial.
During the final mile, I was running uphill on a dirt road to turn left onto a paved one. While on the the small uphill, my legs said no more. I had to stop and walk up the hill. That was the first time in years I have walked during a half marathon. I couldn't believe it. As soon as I reached the top of the hill and stepped on the paved road, I started running again. I knew the walking slowed me down even more, but I didn't care. I just wanted to see that finish line. I continued running my slow pace and finally reached the finish line in 2:12:57. My worst half time of the year.
With this time, I know for the next half marathon to cut my miles even more leading up to the race. Maybe my legs won't be so dead before the start. Also I hope to have my head and heart in the race, but sometimes life happens. We can't always control everything in our lives. My time wasn't what I wanted, but I did finish the race and didn't get injured. So that is always a victory.
Tuesday, September 08, 2015
EMU XC Celebration
Michigan's men's team runs again on September 11 at the Harry Groves Spiked Shoe Invitational i State College, Pennsylvania and the women run again on September 19 at the Commodore Classic in Nashville, Tennessee.
A highlight of the day was when I tweeted that Erin Finn walked by me but I was too shy to say hello. Finn favored that tweet a short time later. When the women's teams were doing their final run outs prior to the race, Finn and I saw each other and waved. Technology is neat.
Monday, August 03, 2015
Wildcat XC 5K
I ran the Wildcat XC 5K Saturday in Pittsford, MI. The morning was a little cool because I actually wore a jacket before the race started. As the time got closer to the race, it started to warm up.
I stood right on the start line when we were told to go. A bunch of people sprinted ahead of me. My legs needed a short warm up before going to work. We ran down a huge hill and that is when I passed a bunch of runners. This course is a high school cross country course located in the next county over. The course is run on grass paths in fields, a wooded area and over grass. A short section of the course was flooded, so we were sent into a soybean field. I was thankful that I wore ankle braces because running over tractor tire ruts were making me uneasy. Running out of the field, a teen boy was just ahead of me. My goal was to run him down. I was able to catch and pass him shortly before the two mile mark. Once I passed him, a teen girl was ahead of me. My next goal was to pass her.
I crossed the two mile mark in 19:04. At that point, there were so many rolling hills in the huge fields that we were running in. I told myself that we only had a mile left and to go after this girl. I could tell that the girl was slowing down and I was gaining on her. On the flat parts of the course, I was running as fast as I could because I knew more hills were coming our way. With about 400m meters to go, I was actually about 3-5 feet behind the girl. When the girl heard me, she took off. We turned a corner to head into a wooded area and she created a big gap. I was unable to keep pace with her and the big hill coming out of the wooded area took a lot out of me. Heading out of the woods, we had to run on the property line of the school. The course turned us right and made us run up another hill to the finish line. I knew someone was behind me, but I didn't know how close they were. I ran as fast as I could and finished the race in 29:59. I finished second in my age group.
As I was changing my shirt in the parking lot, the woman who finished behind me congratulated me. She said that she was trying to catch up to me and that I had a good pace. I thanked her. After the award ceremony, door prizes were handed out. My name was called and I won an apple pie. Currently it is still sitting in the refrigerator untouched.
I stood right on the start line when we were told to go. A bunch of people sprinted ahead of me. My legs needed a short warm up before going to work. We ran down a huge hill and that is when I passed a bunch of runners. This course is a high school cross country course located in the next county over. The course is run on grass paths in fields, a wooded area and over grass. A short section of the course was flooded, so we were sent into a soybean field. I was thankful that I wore ankle braces because running over tractor tire ruts were making me uneasy. Running out of the field, a teen boy was just ahead of me. My goal was to run him down. I was able to catch and pass him shortly before the two mile mark. Once I passed him, a teen girl was ahead of me. My next goal was to pass her.
I crossed the two mile mark in 19:04. At that point, there were so many rolling hills in the huge fields that we were running in. I told myself that we only had a mile left and to go after this girl. I could tell that the girl was slowing down and I was gaining on her. On the flat parts of the course, I was running as fast as I could because I knew more hills were coming our way. With about 400m meters to go, I was actually about 3-5 feet behind the girl. When the girl heard me, she took off. We turned a corner to head into a wooded area and she created a big gap. I was unable to keep pace with her and the big hill coming out of the wooded area took a lot out of me. Heading out of the woods, we had to run on the property line of the school. The course turned us right and made us run up another hill to the finish line. I knew someone was behind me, but I didn't know how close they were. I ran as fast as I could and finished the race in 29:59. I finished second in my age group.
As I was changing my shirt in the parking lot, the woman who finished behind me congratulated me. She said that she was trying to catch up to me and that I had a good pace. I thanked her. After the award ceremony, door prizes were handed out. My name was called and I won an apple pie. Currently it is still sitting in the refrigerator untouched.
Monday, July 27, 2015
Hudson Booster XC Open 5K
I ran the Hudson Booster XC Open 5K Saturday. It was warm and sunny, but not humid. The course is the Hudson High School cross country course. It has many hills and is run over grass, dirt and sand.
When the race started, it felt like I was going slow. Running into the woods for the first time, I started catching up with others and passing them. Back in the woods is a downhill and a big sandy uphill. I did catch and pass a girl after reaching the top of the hill. Once we ran out of the woods, the course was flat for a bit. I told myself to go faster while it was so flat. I could actually feel myself doing that.
During the second mile, I caught up to a big group of girl high school cross country runners. They were walking, so I was able to pass all of them. Ahead of the cross country girls was a group of women runners around my age. I was disappointed I was never able to gain on them.
I was proud of how I finished the race. While I was running to the finish, a few people were cheering for me. Most the girl behind me was getting more cheers. I don't know how close she was, but I didn't want her to pass me. I ran as hard as I could to the finish line. I crossed the line in 29:13, which was eight seconds faster than last year. I did place third in my age group.
I have one more cross country race next week. This course is tough too. Can't wait to tackle it.
When the race started, it felt like I was going slow. Running into the woods for the first time, I started catching up with others and passing them. Back in the woods is a downhill and a big sandy uphill. I did catch and pass a girl after reaching the top of the hill. Once we ran out of the woods, the course was flat for a bit. I told myself to go faster while it was so flat. I could actually feel myself doing that.
During the second mile, I caught up to a big group of girl high school cross country runners. They were walking, so I was able to pass all of them. Ahead of the cross country girls was a group of women runners around my age. I was disappointed I was never able to gain on them.
I was proud of how I finished the race. While I was running to the finish, a few people were cheering for me. Most the girl behind me was getting more cheers. I don't know how close she was, but I didn't want her to pass me. I ran as hard as I could to the finish line. I crossed the line in 29:13, which was eight seconds faster than last year. I did place third in my age group.
I have one more cross country race next week. This course is tough too. Can't wait to tackle it.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Panther XC Open 5K
I ran the Panther XC Open 5K Saturday. It was a very warm, sunny and humid morning. The temperature was at 75° before the race even started. It was just going to keep getting warming as the day went on.
This race was run on a high school cross country course. We had a little of everything: grass, dirt, trail, gravel and concrete. Also throw into the mix; a few hills.
I started the race near the front and was the second woman. Parts of the course were changed from last year. The parts that were eliminated were uneven and had holes all over. I was happy that it was changed because I didn't want to twist my ankles, but I always wear ankle braces when running on cross country courses. The grass that we ran over was thick and plush. It made it kind of difficult to pick up your feet. I ran over the grass that was already bent down due to the others ahead of me running on it.
I crossed the first mile in 8:50. I considered that good on a cross country course. It was during the second mile that a few people passed me. After running up a huge hill, a guy passed me. Immediately after the hill was a flat part of the course. I told myself to get going. I knew that there were ladies coming up behind me. Running into the woods, two ladies passed me. I wasn't too happy about that. I wanted to stay with the first lady that passed me, but she just started running away. The second lady that passed me was a 12 year old girl. I was able to stick to her. I ran in a straight line and she kept going from left to right. A few times I thought my legs were going to get tangled with hers. The young girl did a good job of holding me off for a while. She would speed up and create a gap. I would continue on my pace and catch up to her. Then she would speed up again and I would catch her. I finally passed her for good after a couple of times.
With less then a mile to go, I went around a curve and saw a purple shirt behind me. Another lady was chasing me down. Coming out the woods, she passed me on a long grassy straightaway. I wanted to keep up with her, but was unable to. I just knew I needed to keep up a good pace to stay ahead of the young girl I passed in the woods.
Coming out of the woods, we ran on the warning track of the high school baseball field. I loved running on flat gravel surface. No need to look down for fear of tripping over tree roots of rocks. Leaving the baseball field, we ran towards the football field on grass. Passing through a gate and down a hill to the football field, I just couldn't wait to cross the finish line. Coming onto the football field, the time clock read 29 minutes. I didn't realize it was taking me so long. I pushed myself to finish strong and crossed the line in 30:25. I was the fourth overall woman and I was second in my age group. The woman that was first in my age group was the overall winner.
The next two races will be run on cross country courses. They are tough, but I like the challenge of the course.
This race was run on a high school cross country course. We had a little of everything: grass, dirt, trail, gravel and concrete. Also throw into the mix; a few hills.
I started the race near the front and was the second woman. Parts of the course were changed from last year. The parts that were eliminated were uneven and had holes all over. I was happy that it was changed because I didn't want to twist my ankles, but I always wear ankle braces when running on cross country courses. The grass that we ran over was thick and plush. It made it kind of difficult to pick up your feet. I ran over the grass that was already bent down due to the others ahead of me running on it.
I crossed the first mile in 8:50. I considered that good on a cross country course. It was during the second mile that a few people passed me. After running up a huge hill, a guy passed me. Immediately after the hill was a flat part of the course. I told myself to get going. I knew that there were ladies coming up behind me. Running into the woods, two ladies passed me. I wasn't too happy about that. I wanted to stay with the first lady that passed me, but she just started running away. The second lady that passed me was a 12 year old girl. I was able to stick to her. I ran in a straight line and she kept going from left to right. A few times I thought my legs were going to get tangled with hers. The young girl did a good job of holding me off for a while. She would speed up and create a gap. I would continue on my pace and catch up to her. Then she would speed up again and I would catch her. I finally passed her for good after a couple of times.
With less then a mile to go, I went around a curve and saw a purple shirt behind me. Another lady was chasing me down. Coming out the woods, she passed me on a long grassy straightaway. I wanted to keep up with her, but was unable to. I just knew I needed to keep up a good pace to stay ahead of the young girl I passed in the woods.
Coming out of the woods, we ran on the warning track of the high school baseball field. I loved running on flat gravel surface. No need to look down for fear of tripping over tree roots of rocks. Leaving the baseball field, we ran towards the football field on grass. Passing through a gate and down a hill to the football field, I just couldn't wait to cross the finish line. Coming onto the football field, the time clock read 29 minutes. I didn't realize it was taking me so long. I pushed myself to finish strong and crossed the line in 30:25. I was the fourth overall woman and I was second in my age group. The woman that was first in my age group was the overall winner.
The next two races will be run on cross country courses. They are tough, but I like the challenge of the course.
Monday, July 13, 2015
Kelly Carter 10K
I ran the Kelly Carter 10K Scholarship Run on Saturday.
The sun was shining and it was a warm day. Coming into the race, I had a bad night of sleep. I couldn't shut off my brain and got less then four hours of sleep. When it came time for breakfast, I wasn't hungry. I only ate half a Clif bar
When the 10K started, a teen boy took the lead and I was in second. I got excited because I heard footsteps just behind me on the left. I thought I would have someone to run with. That excitement didn't last long because the footsteps slowly faded away. I was running alone again.
I crossed the mile mark in 8:30 and I could feel myself starting to slow down over the second mile. I told myself to get going. I ran the second mile in 8:30 again as I crossed the second mile in 17:00. The third mile, I really had to watch my footing. The road had new stone put down and on the side where I was running there were a bunch of huge cracks and holes. Since new stone was also put down, the grooves in the road were pretty bad. I had to make sure I was running in a groove, so I didn't trip. While concentrating on footing, I crossed the third mile in 26:xx.
The course took us across a busy intersection into a quiet neighborhood. In the past, there are usually volunteers at that intersection stopping traffic. When I ran up to the intersection, no one was there. I checked left, right and left again before stepping out. I saw a car coming on my left. I was thankful that they were slowing to turn right. There was a car to my right, but still a little ways down the road. I crossed the intersection safely.
Heading into the neighborhood, it was quiet. I only saw one vehicle on the road the entire time. Even crossing the fourth mile, I didn't see a volunteer until he spoke. The volunteer parked in a driveway and was leaning over a branch. He didn't say the time very loud, it just sounded like a whisper. Since it was so quiet, I don't even remember what was said.
I passed the fifth mile in 46:xx. As I approached an upcoming left turn, volunteers were standing next to a water table. I just saw them standing there with their backs towards me. They didn't even realize I was there until I was side-by-side with them. They asked if I wanted a drink, but by the time I asked, I was already by them. I didn't want to stop and turn around to get water. I just kept going. Running out of the quiet neighborhood and back to the busy street was better this time. There was a group of three guys sitting at the corner. They saw me coming and they all stood up and got in the street to stop traffic. I ran between two guys to cross the street and I said thank you to them. My race was almost over and I could feel it. I had to run through one more busy intersection with a stop light. I was thankful that when I ran into the intersection, my way had the green light.
When I turned the corner to head to the finish line, I could hear people at the finish line call my name. I picked up the pace and crossed the line in 57:15. One of the ladies at the finishing area joked and said 'last runner'. That is a joke between us because just a few years ago at a race a volunteer followed me on a bike because I was the last runner in the race. When I was crossing an intersection, the guy on the bike called out to the other volunteers, 'last runner, last runner'. I didn't make me feel too good. So when she said 'last runner', we just laughed. I was not the last runner on this day. I finished second overall and was the women's winner. It is amazing how far I've come in running in just a few short years.
My time wasn't the greatest, but that is due to the lack of sleep and food. I know I can do better. Onto the next race.
The sun was shining and it was a warm day. Coming into the race, I had a bad night of sleep. I couldn't shut off my brain and got less then four hours of sleep. When it came time for breakfast, I wasn't hungry. I only ate half a Clif bar
When the 10K started, a teen boy took the lead and I was in second. I got excited because I heard footsteps just behind me on the left. I thought I would have someone to run with. That excitement didn't last long because the footsteps slowly faded away. I was running alone again.
I crossed the mile mark in 8:30 and I could feel myself starting to slow down over the second mile. I told myself to get going. I ran the second mile in 8:30 again as I crossed the second mile in 17:00. The third mile, I really had to watch my footing. The road had new stone put down and on the side where I was running there were a bunch of huge cracks and holes. Since new stone was also put down, the grooves in the road were pretty bad. I had to make sure I was running in a groove, so I didn't trip. While concentrating on footing, I crossed the third mile in 26:xx.
The course took us across a busy intersection into a quiet neighborhood. In the past, there are usually volunteers at that intersection stopping traffic. When I ran up to the intersection, no one was there. I checked left, right and left again before stepping out. I saw a car coming on my left. I was thankful that they were slowing to turn right. There was a car to my right, but still a little ways down the road. I crossed the intersection safely.
Heading into the neighborhood, it was quiet. I only saw one vehicle on the road the entire time. Even crossing the fourth mile, I didn't see a volunteer until he spoke. The volunteer parked in a driveway and was leaning over a branch. He didn't say the time very loud, it just sounded like a whisper. Since it was so quiet, I don't even remember what was said.
I passed the fifth mile in 46:xx. As I approached an upcoming left turn, volunteers were standing next to a water table. I just saw them standing there with their backs towards me. They didn't even realize I was there until I was side-by-side with them. They asked if I wanted a drink, but by the time I asked, I was already by them. I didn't want to stop and turn around to get water. I just kept going. Running out of the quiet neighborhood and back to the busy street was better this time. There was a group of three guys sitting at the corner. They saw me coming and they all stood up and got in the street to stop traffic. I ran between two guys to cross the street and I said thank you to them. My race was almost over and I could feel it. I had to run through one more busy intersection with a stop light. I was thankful that when I ran into the intersection, my way had the green light.
When I turned the corner to head to the finish line, I could hear people at the finish line call my name. I picked up the pace and crossed the line in 57:15. One of the ladies at the finishing area joked and said 'last runner'. That is a joke between us because just a few years ago at a race a volunteer followed me on a bike because I was the last runner in the race. When I was crossing an intersection, the guy on the bike called out to the other volunteers, 'last runner, last runner'. I didn't make me feel too good. So when she said 'last runner', we just laughed. I was not the last runner on this day. I finished second overall and was the women's winner. It is amazing how far I've come in running in just a few short years.
My time wasn't the greatest, but that is due to the lack of sleep and food. I know I can do better. Onto the next race.
Monday, June 29, 2015
Run, Walk & Eat 5K
I ran the Run, Walk & Eat 5K Sunday. It was a cool, windy and sunny morning. The wind was blowing in our face every direction we ran in.
I got passed by a few people and I passed a few people as well during the first mile. I really didn't think I was going that fast because only a few people went by me. At the mile marker, a volunteer said 8:12.
Not bad. It wasn't as fast as my first mile during my last race, 7:30. Kind of wished it was. The second mile was run on streets through neighborhoods. I was hoping the trees and houses would block the wind. It didn't. I could tell I was going a little slower on this mile. When I reached the second mile mark, the volunteer said 17:05. With my daily runs going well with increased speed, I thought I could pick up the pace over the last mile.
I passed a guy who was doing the run/walk method. I would catch and pass him, then he would start running and pass me again. It happened twice, but I was finally able to pass and keep him behind me for good. But I was unable to keep a guy behind me. He finally passed me and ran away from me as we were approaching the third mile marker. When I passed the sign, my watch read 24:58. I told myself to run faster and finish below 27 minutes. I did pick up the pace and finished strong. I finished the 5K in 26:47 and placed 3rd in my age group. I believe that is the fastest I have run a 5K in a while. That made me very happy.
I hoping my increased pace on my daily runs will help me get faster. I would love to run 5K's in 25 minutes again. I'll keep doing the work and see what happens.
I got passed by a few people and I passed a few people as well during the first mile. I really didn't think I was going that fast because only a few people went by me. At the mile marker, a volunteer said 8:12.
Not bad. It wasn't as fast as my first mile during my last race, 7:30. Kind of wished it was. The second mile was run on streets through neighborhoods. I was hoping the trees and houses would block the wind. It didn't. I could tell I was going a little slower on this mile. When I reached the second mile mark, the volunteer said 17:05. With my daily runs going well with increased speed, I thought I could pick up the pace over the last mile.
I passed a guy who was doing the run/walk method. I would catch and pass him, then he would start running and pass me again. It happened twice, but I was finally able to pass and keep him behind me for good. But I was unable to keep a guy behind me. He finally passed me and ran away from me as we were approaching the third mile marker. When I passed the sign, my watch read 24:58. I told myself to run faster and finish below 27 minutes. I did pick up the pace and finished strong. I finished the 5K in 26:47 and placed 3rd in my age group. I believe that is the fastest I have run a 5K in a while. That made me very happy.
I hoping my increased pace on my daily runs will help me get faster. I would love to run 5K's in 25 minutes again. I'll keep doing the work and see what happens.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Divison I Outdoor Track and Field Championships
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| mgoblue.com |
The Oregon men and women's teams won the team championships. The men won Friday with 85 points over Florida and the women took the title Saturday with 59 points over Kentucky.
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| mgoblue.com |
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| mgoblue.com |
Cody Riffle finished in 23rd in the shot put with a throw of 59-10.5 ft. Morsi Rayyan competed in the 10,000m and finished 21st at 30:31.11.
Men's Team Scoring
Oregon: 85 points
Florida: 56
Arkansas: 53
LSU: 45
USC: 40.5
Women's Team Scores
Oregon: 59 points
Kentucky: 50
Texas A&M: 47
Arkansas: 43
Georgia: 41
Monday, June 15, 2015
iRun for Kassie 10K
I ran the iRun for Kassie 10K on Saturday.
It was a cool, cloudy and windy day. It rained most of the day and night before the race. The 10K race goes from paved streets to dirt roads. With everything being wet, I knew the dirt road would be soft and squishy.
Before the race started, they asked for all of the 10K runners to come to the front. It really doesn't matter where everyone lines up. Besides a 10K, a 5K is also run. Both races start at the same time. When the race started, I found myself near the front. Only four other girls and ladies were ahead of me, along with a bunch of guys. The 5K/10K are the same until the 5K turnaround.
I looked at my watch when I reached the mile marker, it read 7:30. I didn't realize how fast I was running. Shortly after that was the 5K turnaround. When the front running ladies reached that point, three of them made the turnaround. That meant only one lady was still running the 10K and was in front of me.
The 10K course goes from city streets to country dirt roads. Country dirt roads have wonderful rolling hills. I thought I ran the hills well. I kept my head down and just looked about 5-10 feet in front of me. I always do that to make sure I don't run in potholes. I always keep my head down on hills because I don't need to know how much farther I have to go before reaching the top of the hill. Once I got over the hill, I increased my pace on the straightaways. Or at least I hope I did.
This course is just an out-an-back, so when I was getting close to the turnaround, the leaders were passing me on the left coming back. Everyone was friendly. We all waved, gave thumbs up and said good job. That is the nice thing about small town races. As the leaders were passing me, I counted that seven people were ahead of me, six males and one female. When I reached the turnaround, I stopped quickly at the unmanned water table to pick up a small cup of water. I started running again after picking up the glass. That is when I saw two other ladies coming towards the turnaround. I didn't realize other runners were that close to me. I kept going to avoid being passed by one or both of the other ladies.
Around mile 4 or 4.5, that is when I heard footsteps getting closer to me. Very soon, one of the ladies behind me was beside me and then quickly in front of me and running away. I wanted to keep close to her, but she was so fast. The gap between us grew so quickly. With that lady passing me, I was still the third woman. I didn't want to be passed again. I decided to keep my pace going to hold off the other woman.
Only two mile markers were put out on the course. When I reached the marker that read 5 miles, my watch read 44:xx. I knew I could finish the race strong. I just kept saying just two more hills then it is all downhill. I got up the hills well and passed some of the 5K walkers near the end. Running from the street to the track, the race time was being displayed on the football scoreboard. When I stepped on the track, the scoreboard read 53:xx. I was happy, but I just wanted to be done. I thought my pace around the track was good and I came into the finishing line strong. I finished the race in 54:46 and was 3rd overall woman, 2nd in my age group and 9th overall.
I thought it was a good race. I wish I was able to keep up with the lady that passed me after the turnaround. There isn't a lot of 10K races in the county, so anytime I can run one, it is fun. Onto the next race.
It was a cool, cloudy and windy day. It rained most of the day and night before the race. The 10K race goes from paved streets to dirt roads. With everything being wet, I knew the dirt road would be soft and squishy.
Before the race started, they asked for all of the 10K runners to come to the front. It really doesn't matter where everyone lines up. Besides a 10K, a 5K is also run. Both races start at the same time. When the race started, I found myself near the front. Only four other girls and ladies were ahead of me, along with a bunch of guys. The 5K/10K are the same until the 5K turnaround.
I looked at my watch when I reached the mile marker, it read 7:30. I didn't realize how fast I was running. Shortly after that was the 5K turnaround. When the front running ladies reached that point, three of them made the turnaround. That meant only one lady was still running the 10K and was in front of me.
The 10K course goes from city streets to country dirt roads. Country dirt roads have wonderful rolling hills. I thought I ran the hills well. I kept my head down and just looked about 5-10 feet in front of me. I always do that to make sure I don't run in potholes. I always keep my head down on hills because I don't need to know how much farther I have to go before reaching the top of the hill. Once I got over the hill, I increased my pace on the straightaways. Or at least I hope I did.
This course is just an out-an-back, so when I was getting close to the turnaround, the leaders were passing me on the left coming back. Everyone was friendly. We all waved, gave thumbs up and said good job. That is the nice thing about small town races. As the leaders were passing me, I counted that seven people were ahead of me, six males and one female. When I reached the turnaround, I stopped quickly at the unmanned water table to pick up a small cup of water. I started running again after picking up the glass. That is when I saw two other ladies coming towards the turnaround. I didn't realize other runners were that close to me. I kept going to avoid being passed by one or both of the other ladies.
Around mile 4 or 4.5, that is when I heard footsteps getting closer to me. Very soon, one of the ladies behind me was beside me and then quickly in front of me and running away. I wanted to keep close to her, but she was so fast. The gap between us grew so quickly. With that lady passing me, I was still the third woman. I didn't want to be passed again. I decided to keep my pace going to hold off the other woman.
Only two mile markers were put out on the course. When I reached the marker that read 5 miles, my watch read 44:xx. I knew I could finish the race strong. I just kept saying just two more hills then it is all downhill. I got up the hills well and passed some of the 5K walkers near the end. Running from the street to the track, the race time was being displayed on the football scoreboard. When I stepped on the track, the scoreboard read 53:xx. I was happy, but I just wanted to be done. I thought my pace around the track was good and I came into the finishing line strong. I finished the race in 54:46 and was 3rd overall woman, 2nd in my age group and 9th overall.
I thought it was a good race. I wish I was able to keep up with the lady that passed me after the turnaround. There isn't a lot of 10K races in the county, so anytime I can run one, it is fun. Onto the next race.
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