Race #13: December - US Road Running Reindeer Racer 10K

The last race of the year. 

Because of stress and injury, I ended up gaining 45 pounds over the past year.  I stress eat.  I thought that all the racing and training would have stopped that.  It didn't. The stress I've been dealing with made it difficult to train properly.  Motivation is hard when you're just not feeling it.  So, when December came around and I had one more race to do, I was less than excited. 

Who is going to be pumped up and rearing to go when they have extra weight to carry through each mile, less energy, and diminished endurance?  No one.  But I wanted to run one race per month this year.  Not just 12 races.  I decided that it was important for me to suck in my gut and just do it. 

December is crazy busy and I needed the flexibility to run whenever it was convenient for me so, I registered for another virtual race.    The race I chose was the US Road Running Reindeer Racer 10K.  At the beginning of the month, I figured that signing up for a 10K would get me running again.  I was wrong. I haven't run since the last virtual race I did. 

It's the end of the month.  End of the year.  And it's time to accomplish my goal.  So, I went over to the Orem Recreation Center, hopped on a treadmill, and started walking.  Because of the lack of training, I was definitely taking full advantage of the run/walk options with this race.  I warmed up better than I ever have before and then turned up the speed.

The first mile and a half felt like I was teaching my body what running is.  The next mile and a half were really pretty rough.  I was tired and worrying about how my feet were going to handle this.  (My injury was neuroma's in each of my feet.) It was around mile 3 that I slowed down to a walk again.  I needed to catch my breath and give myself a little pep-talk.  A really good song came on and I sped up again. 

This time, I was running a bit faster and did it for longer.  It helped to have a handful of great songs right after another. I managed to keep this faster pace up for another mile and three quarters.  Now, I'm pretty done.  But I still have 1.7 miles to go.  So, I brought the speed back down to a slow jog.  It was when I slowed down that I could feel them.  The evil heated bubbles on the bottom of my feet.  URGH.  Blisters are the worst.  I pushed through the blisters as long as I could.  And then power walked the rest of the way.

I thought I would be completely exhausted when I finished the 6.4 miles.  But I wasn't.  I felt really happy, proud, and satisfied that I accomplished what I set out 12 months ago to do.  It was a great feeling.

My after shot of my race. (Sorry it's all fuzzy.)

This year has been a really good year of running.  I'm glad I decided to do it.

Race #12: November - U.S. Road Running Day of the Dead 5K

Since my foot wasn't getting better, at the end of October I went in to the physical therapist.  He spent a couple of weeks having me really take care of my foot, he really dug at it with this cool little tool that looks kind of like a thick hook, and he shocked it.   All these things really helped my foot to feel better.

I was supposed to finish running this 5K by the end of the first week in November, but between my injury and everyone in my family being sick, I just didn't get it done until later.  When I finally did run it, my body was ready.  I love the way I feel when I run.  It's like life being improved with every step.  Wonderful.

I ran it in 38 minutes.

Here is the awesome medal.  So, far it's one of my favorites.

Race #11: October - U.S. Road Running Halloween 5K

October came around and I didn't really have another race scheduled.  So, to save a bit of money, I registered for a virtual race on U.S. Road Running.  The medals look really cool and I could run my race anytime I wanted.  For these races, I can finish them by running or walking inside, outside, or on a treadmill.

This was a life saver since my right foot was really starting to act up.  Running was beginning to be really painful.  But I wanted to finish my one race a month goal.  And I'm going to do it.

I ran this race on the treadmill at the Orem Recreation Center.  I ran it at a slower pace than I have been running, but it was better for my foot.  I finished in 40 minutes.

Here is the cool medal.

Race #10: September - Addict II Athlete 10K

Addict II Athlete 10K.   Addict II Athlete's mission is to "establish and maintain sobriety by promoting lifestyle changes through erasing addiction and replacing it with something of greater value." They are a support group for anyone who has been affected by addiction.  We have a lot of substance abuse problems in Utah and I think what they are doing is wonderful for those fighting their own addiction and for their families.



I have a cousin that I lost to a drug overdose.  This race is for him.  I run it not for speed, and not for the exercise, but for the memory.  I get 1 whole hour to remember the things we did together, the laughs we had, and the love we shared.

This year, my Hubby ran with me.  It's always great to have the support during an emotional run.

This morning was freezing.  Here we are shaking at the start line.

Every year, before the race, we let go of white balloons in remembrance of those we have lost.

There is an auction every year to help raise money for the organization to be able to function throughout the year.  It helps out a lot.

I love this race and I can't wait until next year.

Race #9: August - Rivalry Relay

I was so excited for the Rivalry Relay.  This was my second year running it and I got to do it with some great girls.  The Rivalry Relay starts up at Rice-Eccles Stadium and runs down to Provo.  The scenery is beautiful, but still hot at the end of August.  I ran leg 3 for the team.

That morning I got up, had some of the girls meet at my house and then we headed out to pick up the rest on our way up to the start line.  We met the second three girls up in Salt Lake.  I think it was off 123000 South.  We all got into my car and realized that one of the girls had forgotten her shoes.  It was a really good thing that she lived close.  We all headed to her house, got her shoes, and drove back towards the freeway.  We were almost to the on-ramp when someone in the back seat yelled, "They're towing our cars!!"  At first I was thinking, "No, they're not.  We're in it."  But then my sleepy brain caught up to what she was saying and I made the turn into the parking lot.  We got there just in time.  Now we needed to find a new place to park the cars.  So, we headed to 114000 South to the Wal-Mart there.  Good thing Wal-Mart lets people park overnight.  Saved our bacon. 

Finally, we were off to our race.  We made it on time.  Got through the safety lesson and check-in.  And were feeling good about our day ahead.

The Start:

Our team up early and excited.

And we're off.  Headlamps and reflector vests, very important.

My first leg was beautiful.  I did need to change my shorts shortly after heading out because they were falling off as I ran (don't wear anything too big while running), but it was remedied quickly and I got to enjoy the run.  The sun was just coming up.  The world was waking and I was feeling great.  I ran quickly and comfortably.  It got me psyched for Suncrest.

My second leg was up Suncrest.  This stretch is 3.3 miles UP HILL.  And basically it's straight up.  I thought that I had trained well for it, but by the end of mile 1, I was definitely questioning my training.  I ended up power walking most of the way.  I hit this leg in the middle of the day in the middle of 90 degree heat.  So hot.  So hard.  Kicked my Ass!  But I finished it.  I finished in 54 minutes and 58 seconds.  I made it before the cut off and I'm glad that I did it.

Each person who runs the Suncrest leg gets a medal at the top. 

My last leg I was done.  I walked so much of it.  I'm not sure if I didn't eat enough, or if I was really dehydrated, or just dead tired, but my body just refused to work the way I wanted it to.  Apparently I had trained for one maybe two runs in a day, but not three.  The over training in my year of races hit me hard in this leg.  I have since learned and will not do that again.

This is our team running to the finish line together. 

We did it.  Finished a whole day soaking in the sun while doing something we love.  Our team came in 43rd.  We finished in 11 hours 19 minutes and 38 seconds.  So proud of us.

My medals proudly hung in my car for the rest of the evening.  

A closer look at the Rivalry Relay medal for this year.  I love this race.  It beats me down and builds me up at the same time.  Everyone needs to know they can do hard things, but still be reminded that there are legs that kill no matter how hard we train.  I'm going to continue to do this race every year I can get a team together. 

Race #8: August - TriathaMOM

I was not confident about this next race.  I hadn't trained like I wanted to or felt I needed to.  It's month 8 of the year and I'm feeling a bit tired of training.  Especially for a race that I'm not really excited to participate in.  I almost didn't go.  The morning of the race, I rolled over, snuggled up to my hubby, and said, "I could just stay here and sleep all morning."  He promised me I would be glad that I went to the race.  So, I got out of bed and headed to Riverton.

The TriathaMOM transition area opened at 5:30am and I had never participated in a triathlon before, so I was there by 5:30am.  SO early.  But I had time to set all my stuff up, eat a banana, and visit the honey bucket multiple times. 

The wonderful woman and friend to convinced me to register after we both got our stuff set up.

Getting ready for the swim.

This is everyone gathered before the swim to receive last minute instructions from the organizers.  There were a more women here to race than I thought there would be.

Just before I got into the pool.

Running to my first exchange.

My first exchange was a long one.  I took a long time to dry off.  I took a long time to get my tank top, my shoes, and everything else on.  Next time I do a tri, I will spend less time in this transition.

There I go.  Off on the bike ride.  I used a mountain bike because that was what I had and it worked out just fine.  I would, however, recommend riding your bike before the day of the race.  I spent all my training time in the gym and none out on the road with my bike.  So, one mile in, I realized that my seat was a bit too low.  I dealt with it and finished just fine.

 Transition #2!  This time I was ready.  I only spent seconds in the transition area this time.

 Heading out for the run.  And I'm still smiling.  It truly amazing what seeing your cheerleaders will do for you when racing.

I made it!  I got to the magical flying balloons and I really am glad that I got up that morning and came to the race.

This is a family friendly race.  So, there were bounce houses,

and face painting for the kids.

We did it.  We made it to the end.  Our tired selves after accomplishing this fun triathaMOM.

My kids made a sign for me and wanted to pose on the little podium. This was a great race.  If you want to get into triathalons and are a little nervous.  This one is a great way to do that.  There is absolutely no pressure and everyone is cheering everyone else on.  I would definitely do this one again. 

Oh, and the "medal" was a necklace. 

Running Waterton Lakes National Park: Bertha Falls

My second day of training on vacation consisted of a hike up to Bertha Falls.  I had never done a solo hike before.  I was a bit nervous hiking alone in bear country, but it turned out to be one of my favorite things I did this past trip.

Distance: 6 kilometers round trip (roughly 4 miles)

Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

Who: Anyone able to handle significant inclines and rough terrain.  If your kids are used to hiking then they will be fine.  My kids would have wanted to be carried long before the half way point.

Here is the trailhead to Bertha. This trailhead is located just off of Evergreen Avenue.  There is a decent sized parking lot here, but you could walk here from anywhere in town.

I had seen a few maps and they all said that Bertha Falls was 1K.  So, I was thinking that I could do this while my family was napping.  Nope.  This is a lie.  Or they just don't tell you where the kilometer starts.  It surely doesn't start here.  From here you have 3Ks to get to the falls.  Trust me.  It's 3 kilometers one way.

The beautiful view as you climb.

This was a lookout at 1.5K mark.  (there was a sign.  I just forgot to take a picture of it.  It also said that I had 1.5K to go.)  The view into Glacier National Park, USA.  This is a perfect place to eat a snack and drink some water.  There is a bench to sit on too.  I could have sat here all day long.  So peaceful.

Somewhere between half way and the falls, I climbed down to the river.  There was a pool that you could wade in or little kids could swim in. There was a couple of ladies there that were testing out their water filter.  The one that works like a straw.  It was pretty cool.  So, if you have one of those filters, then you could get yourself a drink.
 

This is Bertha Falls.  It's a good turn around spot if you're not going up to Bertha Lake, which I was not.  You will know you are here when you hit a wooden bridge and another wooden bench to sit on.  I'm pretty sure there was a sign too.

Next time I'm thinking I will train run this one.  It's a good distance of 6K round trip, not too steep, and oh so beautiful. But I'll wait another year or two to take the kids.

Running Waterton Lakes National Park: Prince of Whales Hotel

One of my favorite places to run while on vacation is in Waterton National Park, Canada.  The first day is always rough because my lungs need to adjust to the altitude and temperature.



So, the first day, I always to a short easy run.  Usually from where I am staying up to the Prince of Whales Hotel.  It's about 2-3 miles from where we normally stay.  So, distance will depend on where you start.

Running to the Hotel is up a small hill.  There is a beautiful view at the top.   

It's completely worth it and you will still have plenty of energy for the rest of your day's activities.

Running in Raymond, Alberta, Canada

There are plenty of people who like to sleep in while on vacation, but I have to rise with the sun.  I love running while on vacation. I get up early, smell the fresh air (something we lack here in Utah), enjoy the crisp breeze, and head off to explore a new area.  I don't take my music when running on vacation because I want to enjoy nature and be completely aware of my unfamiliar surroundings.

This summer, I was able to run in Alberta, Canada.  I was there for the July 1st celebrations.  I was staying in Raymond because they have the best parade.  Each morning I was there, I went running.  On the first morning I found a running trail on the south side of town and followed it past the edge of town. Here was the scene of my run:

The next day I didn't get a picture.  This was because my heart was racing and in panic mode for most of my run.  I got chased down the street by a huge dog.  I survived.  It's okay.

The next morning was Canada Day.  It was cloudy and looked like rain was coming, but I got to enjoy the parade route and it's decorations without the crowds of people.

I noticed that many people in town seemed to be heading out on their runs when I was finishing up.  So,  if you have a chance to visit Raymond and you want to run with people, then I would recommend going later in the morning.  Anytime after 6:30am.

Race #7: July - FroYo 10k

My goal this year has been, as you know, to run a race every month.  But July came and I had not registered for any race.  Signing up for a race this late in the game is pretty expensive.  And just not what I am able to do right now.  So, I had to accept that there would be no race for me this month.  But then, on Friday, my Hubby called home from work.  He had a co-worker who had an extra entry to the FroYo 10k race in Salt Lake City, and he wanted to know if I wanted to run it.  For Free!!  I jumped at the chance.

The FroYo Run was held at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City.  This is a beautiful park.  The run is 4 loops around the park.  I parked in the regular parking area.  I got there later than I had planned and usually like because I forgot to set my alarm, but it looked as though this race also had Zumba as their pre-race warm-up.

I met up with my Hubby's co-worker and her friends.  We all lined up in our respective areas.  I have never seen a timed race go out in waves, but I liked it.  This gave all the faster/want-to-win people the opportunity to run their race without having to dodge all the slower runners.  Especially at the beginning.  I am not one of those faster runners, so I was comfortably back near the 10 min/mile people.

The Start:

We headed out and I was feeling pretty good.  The first 5k was awesome, but I haven't actually run a 10k distance in 4 months.  This means, I started out way too fast and spent the second 5k dying.  We walked a couple of times.  I didn't think that running a loop would be so hard, but looking at the same thing over and over again didn't help with my dying lungs.

I finished this race in 1 hr, 6 min, and 35 sec.  This placed me 81st overall.  I'm feeling good about that.  Especially since I didn't train for this one.

After the race we were given water and our very own FroYo from Yogurtland.  The tartness from this dessert was PERFECT after a race. 

Our packet was also filled with great goodies:

AND we got a medal:

I'm thinking this race is one I will have to run again.  It was a low key race, no pressure, organized, and lots of swag.  Totally worth it. 

Race #6: June - Dirty Dash & Piglet Plunge

The Dirty Dash.  My first obstacle race. This race is a team challenge.  We registered early.   We were the Mud Pies.  This really became a family affair with a couple of adoptive additions.  I'm so glad I registered for this race.  We had a later start time because a handful of us were running the Piglet Plunge with our kids afterwards.  This meant we didn't have to get us at the crack of dawn to be up at Soldier Hollow.  Thank God.

We gathered in the parking lot where we took pictures and then headed out to the start.

The Start:

Our team had tentatively decided on doing the 5k.  However, when we finished the 5k, we decided we had enough time to do the whole 10k and be back for the piglet plunge.  This was a good idea, because all the best obstacles were on the second half of the course.

There was so much mud.  Mud to wade through, climb over, and slip across.  I was running this race with a tiny sprain.  Probably not the smartest idea, but I made it without breaking my ankle.  I did have to go a bit slower, but saving my body is always worth sacrificing time.

In the course, close to the end, there is a HUGE slide.  It looked awesome.  Some people were sliding down fine, others were having a bit more trouble.  I didn't want to slide completely out of control, so I decided against the running start.   I stood and jumped down the slide.  I wouldn't have needed the running start.  I shot down that slide.  So fast.  I thought there was going to be a whole ton of mud at the end.  You know, to help me slow down.  NOPE.  There was a tarp at the end, which meant that my extreme speed sent me flying off the end of the massive slide onto a watery mud covered tarp that would continue to hurl me down the mountain.  At the end of the tarp was a 1-2 foot drop.  I catapulted off it and landed on my bum so hard it rocked my back a good one.  My hubby even ran out to me to see if I was okay.  We couldn't take any recovery time though because there was a very large man coming at me at very high speeds.  We jumped out of the way just in time.  He would have broken us.  This slide was fun, but hurt.  So, it was the best and worst part of the race.

I really enjoyed the finish.  It was a huge pit of mud with cross sections of mud we had to climb over.  Very fun.  And great for picture opportunities.

We hurried to finish, skipped the pictures, and went right into the piglet plunge.

The Piglet Plunge was more than I expected.  I thought there was going to be a mud section that our kids could run through maybe 1/4 mile long.  I was so wrong.  The Piglet Plunge was at least a mile long with a crazy uphill mud climb, at least 3 obstacles (the HUGE slide was one of them; we skipped that), and the awesome mud pit at the end.  Completely worth the $20 for the kids.  My Sweet Pea LOVED it.  She wanted to keep going down the slide.  My little Green Bean wanted nothing to do with the mud.  Oh well, he'll get in on the fun next year.

There was not medal for this race.  Always sad when there's not, but it's okay.  We posed for pictures at the end, received food and water, and took a FREEZING shower.  We threw away our kids shoes, but my Hubby and I kept ours.  Stripping down is a must at the showers.  There is just too much mud.  EVERYWHERE.  You will discover crevasses that you never knew you had.

There were hot showers that you could pay for, but we did not pay the extra.  We headed back to a relatives home to clean up.  It was great to have them close and they were wonderful to let us destroy their bathroom with dirt.

This race is worth every penny.  I loved it and would definitely do it again.