Inaugural Half Moon Bay Marathon Expo and Scott Jurek. Event date: September 24, 2011

What a long day!

I woke up at 4 something am to head off to volunteer at the Brazen Racing's Trail Hog running events and afterwards, made a beeline to the Inaugural Half Moon Bay Marathon Expo to catch ultra runner, Scott Jurek, speak.

Scott's running career highlights include winning the Badwater Ultramarathon twice and the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run 7 times.  His race distances make the marathon distance look like a walk in the park.


I arrived at the Half Moon Bay Marathon Expo and walked thru the small shopping complex.  The expo was held entirely inside a small shopping complex which was nice.  It was cold and breezy outside from the nearby ocean.  It was also wet outside from the heavy fog.

An event flag greeted runners outside at the mall.

There wasn't a whole lot to see at the expo.  On the plus side, your wallet was pretty safe from spending too much money here.

The Fleet Feet area of the expo.

Scott had 2 presentations.  Because I was commuting from volunteering at a trail running event, I missed his first presentation.  His second presentation was called, "Running Tough."

I need all the help I can get!

After his presentation, he signed copies of  Chris McDougal's Born to Run and some Brooks posters.  Scott is one of the athletes covered in the book.  He is currently sponsored by Brooks.

Pic of Scott and me.  I was awestruck.

Scott said he is currently writing a book.  I am hoping he will be back this way during his book signing tour.


For more info. on the Half Moon Bay Marathon, click here.
For more info. on Scott Jurek, click here.

Giant Race Half Marathon Review: Growing Pains and Brian Wilson. Event date: August 27, 2011

This was the 2nd annual Giant Race, benefiting Project Open Hand.

Originally, I wasn't going to run this year because last year's half marathon course wasn't all that great.  I didn't like last year's course.  The intersection blocking wasn't great.  The course also was a tease, where half marathoners ran past AT&T Park on the way back only to run around in the drab areas of Mission Bay, with there was nothing much to look at and no one cheering also.

When they announced it was a new course, I decided to make a run for it.


No Pre-Race Packet Pickup.
I was disappointed with the no pre-race packet up for most runners.  New this year:  You have to purchase a baseball game tix to get into the Pre-Race Pickup.

If I paid a registration fee, I can't see why I should pay more money to get into the race expo.

It also made no sense to pay for a baseball game tix for a game the evening before a half marathon, since I have to get some shut eye and wake up early for the half marathon.



Pre-Race.
FedEx gear check and pickup was smooth.

Porta potty lines were not too long and steadily moved along.


The Race.
Getting into a corral was a challenge.  Lots of folks congregated at the coral entrances when there was plenty of room in the middle.

Wave 1 before the race started.

Getting closer to the Start.

Off we went.

The first 3 miles were congested.  Many folks were running on the sidewalk to avoid the congestion but were eventually waved back into the streets by course marshals.

Making things more congested this year for the Half Marathon distance is because they added a 10k distance this year.  They took 2 out of 3 lanes for the 10k during those first 3 miles; one lane was for turning around the 10k and the other lane was for the returning 10k folks.

Here are a few pics from the course:

The Ferry Building.

Pier 39.

Fisherman's Wharf.

Fort Mason hill.

During Mile 5, I was running along.  I saw up ahead what looked like some fan who looks a lot like the San Francisco Giants closer, Brian Wilson.

Only when I got closer, I realized it was really him.  He was standing in the middle of the street, cheering on the half marathoners.  When I got to him, he was totally surrounded by fans.

Here's a pic of SF Giant, Brian Wilson, as I went by.

The course continued past Crissy Field and back thru the following to AT&T Park:

1. Fort Mason hill
2. Aquatic Park
3. Fisherman's Wharf
4. Pier 39
5. The Ferry Building

Returning towards AT&T Park.

The Finish is just up ahead.

Chip:  2:32:37, which I am happy with.


Post-Race.
After I finished, I quickly realized that things were a mess.  I received my usual bottle of water and bling; this was fine.

What wasn't fine was that I was handed a yogurt but no spoon.  It was followed by being told the advertised granola had already ran out.

I followed the line of other runners up the stairs and onto the concourse.

Things then came to a screeching halt.

The Post Race Goodie Bag and Food Line Jam.

Eventually, the masses slowly moved forward.

I picked up a goodie bag, a Safeway bag, a bagel and a banana.

Next, came the Tim Lincecum bobblehead.

After the bobblehead came the T shirt pick up area.  Some folks were upset they had ran out of their shirt sizes.  Fortunately, I was able to get a Men's L.

The masses then slowly moved towards the Post-Race Expo area.

Finally, I reached the Post-Race Expo.

I made it over to the advertised chocolate recovery booth area, where there was nothing left.  It seemed they had ran out and had already packed up.

At this point, I was very disappointed.  Why advertise something when they can't deliver?

I was also disappointed that due to the start and finish times, those who did the 5k and 10k would nail all the food before some of the half marathoners even finished.


The only highlight in the Post-Race Expo area was the World Series Trophy.

Pic of the World Series Trophy and me.

Ran Out of Medals.
Afterwards, I found my friends and went to lunch.  It was suppose to be a celebratory lunch, but it didn't feel very cheery.  They had ran out of medals, and I was the only person at our table who received a medal after finishing.



Pros:

1. Beautiful baseball stadium
2. Finish on the field of a beautiful baseball stadium
3. Tim Lincecum bobblehead
4. Post race, everyone can pose for a pic with the World Series Trophy
5. If you didn't have a camera with you, they had photographers who can take a pic of you and the World Series Trophy.  A print:  $20.  Digital download:  $30

Cons:

1. No free Race Expo.  If you want to attend, you must purchase a baseball game tix.
2. Scheduling the Half Marathoners to run into the back of the 5k, including those pushing strollers
3. Only 3 corrals.  They really should have more.
4. Ran out of some shirt sizes
5. Ran out of medals
6. Congestion on the course
7. Congestion during the last mile or so
8. Congested post race areas

Would I Run it Again?
Maybe.

I really wanted to like this one because I love baseball and love finishing on the field of a baseball stadium.

On one hand, it is only the 2nd annual running of this event.  It has growing pains that needs to be worked out.

OTOH, however, if you see a race event schedule the start of a 5k event 1 hour and 30 minutes after the start of the Half Marathon event and they both share the same finishing course; common sense would tell you that it's going to be a mess.  This is poor planning, and it's an event to avoid until their bugs are cleaned up and their race reviews are better.

The Bling that Got Away: Trail Hog Event Volunteering. Event date: September 24, 2011

This year, I told myself to run in less races compared to previous years and now look what happened...

I let a gorgeous bling slip away.

Over the weekend, I volunteered at the Brazen Racing's Trail Hog trail running events instead of running in it.  I was so envious of those folks who had finished their events and have blings hanging around their necks.

Gorgeous trail hog blings.

 
If the bling is similar for next year, I am not letting it get away from me.  That hog will me mine.

For more info. on Brazen Racing, click here.

Short Spin on an Elliptical. September 23, 2011

Sometimes, I get pressed for time in between things.

Today was one of those days.

0:20:00 on an elliptical with arms


In addition, I walked 1 mile trying on a bunch of errands.


Calories burned for the day:  276

Went for a Run and then to the Gym. September 22, 2011

Run
4 miles, including 2 crazy hills, some headwind and a trail section with lots of sand.  Each time I run thru a trail section with that much sand, it reminds me why I don't like trail running.


Gym
0:30:00 weights, free weights and abs


In addition, I walked 2.34 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  842

First Workouts Post-Race. September 21, 2011

I'm trying to get back into the saddle after the DSE Lake Merced 1/2 Marathon, which was on September 18, 2011

For today:  0:20:00 on an elliptical with arms and walked 2.29 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  335

-----

NOTE:
I tried to put up some pics for my Giant Race Half Marathon Review the other day, but blogger or Picasa's Web kept freezing up on me.

I am hoping to try again this weekend and will see if it will work.

So Relieved! My New Bladders Had Arrived.

A couple of days ago, the mouthpiece on the bladder of my running pack broke during Mile 10 of the DSE Lake Merced 1/2 Marathon I was in.

Mile 10 equipment failure:  a broken mouthpiece.

After I made it home, I immediately canvassed high and low looking for a replacement mouthpiece.  I found plenty of Camelback parts but no Nathan parts.

So, I clicked a few buttons and ordered new bladders with new mouthpieces.

So Relieved!  My New Bladders Had Arrived.

Shipping was lightning fast and free from Running Warehouse.

So Glad Not to Be Sick Before a Race

Very cold next to the beach!  Brrr...

Today, I am so relieved that I am not sick.  I will be running in a local, no frills half marathon around Lake Merced tomorrow.

I had been very concerned.  The other day, I volunteered to help Nike with a timing test for an Internet project they are working on.  The location was next a beach.  There was a lot of down time for us volunteers.  It was very windy and incredibly cold.  Near the end, my nose kept running; I felt cold; and I was losing feeling in my fingers.

So, glad not to be sick before a race.

Pay $10, Get $20 at Whole Foods Market

Pay $10, Get $20 at Whole Foods Market

Some Fine Print

• Limit 1 per person.
• Promotion Value Expires on:  December 13, 2011 (last day to use at Whole Foods Market)
• Not available in all markets.

To get in on this deal, do the following:

1. Click here
2. To check to see if this offer is available in your area, go to the bottom of the right side of the screen.
3. Click on "Looking for Another City"
4. Click on the city location closest to you to see offers available.

Thanks for reading and good luck!!!

Ran 4.72 Miles. September 12, 2011

Very warm day today.  But made it out the door.

4.72 miles @ 0:54:28

Crazy me even tossed in 1 mile running up hill near the end.  What was I thinking?


Calories burned:  572

Ran, Attended a Nike Women's Marathon Event, Went to the Gym and Walked. September 10, 2011

Went for a Run
I saw Brian "Fear the Beard" Wilson before my run.  I didn't have a camera on me.  Perhaps, next time.

8.09 miles @ 1:38:18


Nike Women's Marathon Event at Lombardi Sports
Then, went to a Nike Women's Marathon event at Lombardi Sports.

Nike Women's Marathon event sign at Lombardi Sports

Fun event.  Free Nike tech T's and free shirt customization with minimum Nike purchase.  Nike shoe test runs.  They also raffled off some entries to the SOLD OUT Nike Women's Marathon, which is on October 16, 2011, to some very lucky folks in attendance.

In addition, there were informative seminars from San Francisco Sport and Spine Physical Therapy and Marathon Matt, covering injury prevention and proper running form.



Played at the Gym
Afterwards, waddled off to the gym.

0:35:35 of weights, free weights and abs.



Getting Around
Also, walked 3 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day: 944

Walked 3.02 Miles

Errand day today.

A stop here.  A stop there and so on.

Walked 3.02 miles

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  151

A Run, the Gym and Getting Around. September 8, 2011

Run
Crazy sized hills today along the way.  I'd consider a few blocks to be mountainous.

3.71 miles @ 0:47:25


Gym
0:35:00 of weights, free weights and abs.


Walking
2.28 miles


Guestimate calories burned:  728

Wrestling with the Tall People's Elliptical with Arms. September 7, 2011

Briefly worked out at the new gym today.


Elliptical Machine with Arms
Tried out one of those elliptical machines with the arms.

Seriously, there should have been a warning sign on this machine saying, "For Tall Folks Only."

It seemed that to use this machine comfortably, your stride must be considerably longer than the length of any of my strides.

In addition, I used the preset cardio workout program on this machine.  The resistance at times was too much.  There were times I literally had to shift all of my weight onto one of the foot levers in an attempt to get the lever down.

After my wrestling with the Tall People's Elliptical with Arms, I moseyed over to the stationary bicycle section.


Stationary Bicycle
The next machine I got on was a stationary bicycle.  Fortunately, it was for a person of my size.  But, on the other hand, the machine thought I was a ghost.  My heart rate was listed at "0" for a good chunk of my time on it.


I really wished I was at my old gym instead where the equipment ain't so odd.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  400

2 Days of Rest but Now Back in the Saddle. September 6, 2011

I gave myself 2 rest days in a row (September 4 and 5, 2011).  It felt strange not being active for those 2 days, but I got back into the saddle today.


Confused at New Gym
I am trying out a new gym and am just confused over the computer to machine link.  I poked around on a stationary bicycle for several minutes and was still baffled.  I tried asking the person to my left and the person to my right before we pieced together something workable.

I have a feeling I'll be confused for a couple of weeks.

0:30:00 on a stationary bicycle


Run
Then, went outside for a run.

4.11 miles @ 0:43:52 (speed work)


Back to Old Gym
I was so relieved to be back at my usual gym near the end of the day.  More importantly, no fuss over the computer links to the machines.  Just do your workout and then that's it.

0:35:00 of weights, free weights and abs


Getting Around
Walked 3.03 miles


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  1,230

Hills and Inclines Kind Of Day

I am not a fan of hills, but on somedays, I got to try to get up them hills.  Today is 1 of those days.

6.06 miles of some hills and inclines @ 1:19:53


Afterwards went by the gym for 0:35:00 of weights, free weights and abs.

And, walked 2.79 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  973

Runned, Walked and Hit the Gym. September 1, 2011

Ran 3.04 miles @ 0:36:33.

There was 1 hill along the way, and I got blasted by strong headwinds.  Pace-wise, it was hard to tell if my legs were tired or if it was due to strong headwinds.


Afterwards, went to the gym.

0:30:00 of weights, free weights and abs.


In addition, walked 2.35 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day: 613

Light Cardio

Sometimes 30 minutes of light cardio will have to do.

Guestimate calories burned:  150

1st Post Event Workouts: Runned, Walked and Dropped by the Gym. August 30, 2011

I ran in the Giant Race 1/2, which was on August 27, 2011.  I was happy with my finish time and hope to have a report up within 2 weeks.

Today was the first day running after the Giant Race 1/2.

4.45 miles @ 0:50:22  (545 calories burned)

There was 1 hill along the way.  I pushed a bit too hard up the hill I kinda of wished I had an oxygen mask.


I also went the gym.

0:30::00 of weights, free weights and abs.


In addition, I walked 2.85 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  817

Rock 'n' Rolled in Chicago: My 2011 Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon Review. Event Date: August 14, 2011

Heading into this event, I had reservations.  I had registered for this event before I got cooked during the 2010 Chicago Marathon.  The temperatures for that race reached 89 F, and it made for a long, hot and miserable event.  I even recalled I was served hot Gatorade at Mile 15 during that event.  So, I kept checking the temperatures heading into the 2011 Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon.  They looked OK, so I showed up.

Here are a few of my sightseeing pics:

The Bean (Cloud Gate) with a reflection of the Chicago skyline at night.

A delicious deep dish Chicago Pizza from Giordano's.  This cheese pizza took 40 minutes.

Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs baseball team.

Expo at McCormick Place.

Big Expo.  Got some samples and schwag.  The # of vendors and different types were very well balanced.

Brooks apparel and footwear was a huge sponsor and vendor at the event.

I have a soft spot for animals, so I helped to direct $20 to the ASPCA.  Thanks, Dodge!

Small Hiccup.

My packet p/u had only 1 hiccup.  The first shirt I got had some thread issues.  I exchanged it for a 2nd shirt.  The process was painless and smooth.

Pre-Race Night.

Had a lovely dinner with my friends, Jenny and Terry, before hitting the hay.

Unfortunately, my pre-race jitters got to me, and I had problems falling asleep.

Race Day.

1.       Attempted to check in my gear before heading off to meet some friends for some pre-race pics.  No go.  The gear check set up fell behind on schedule.

2.       I suspect many things fell behind schedule because of the storm the day before.  After trying to check in my gear the 1^st time unsuccessfully, the covers were still on the finish line banners when I walked by the finish. At their other events, the covers are already off by now.

3.       It rained on and off during the race, so I kept my camera bagged as I was running along, hence no pics along the way.

4.       The last 3 miles had headwinds up to 20 mph.

Some of the sights along the way included the following:

1. Mile 3 - Chicago Theater
2. Mile 5 - United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls, basketball team
3. Miles 8, 9 and 11 - McCormick Place
4. Mile 12 - Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears, football team
5. Chicago Skyline
6. Tunnel thru McCormick Place, I believe

Chip:  Very happy with 2:34:07, which is almost a 10 minute improvement from the year before.

My 2010:  Chip:  2:44:06

My 2009:  Chip:  2:40:32

Pros and Cons.

Pros:

1. No issues finding a set of porta potties w/o any lines before the race started.
2. For this year, the weather was cooler and not as humid.  It rained on and off during the event.
3. Loved the Journey cover band along the way.
4. New course this year.  Saw more of the city streets than in year’s past.

Cons:

1. Congested at certain points
2. Some folks complained the waves were not separated enough, but I thought it was fine.
3. Some of the aid stations were overrunned.  Volunteers couldn't keep up with the number thirsty runners going by.  I wasn't affected as I carried my own fluids.
4.  The post-concert headliner, Bret Michaels, cancelled at the last minute.  I believe it was over health issues.

Overall.

Overall, the Chicago weather in August is all over the place, just like for the Chicago Marathon in October.  When it’s cool, it’s great.  But, when it gets hot, it can be miserable.

I had fun at this event.  Thanks to the hardworking volunteers and staff for the efforts in making this event fun for the participants.

RaceReady Shorts and Other Items: 20% Off New Site Promo. Expires: September 5, 2011

I am a fan of RaceReady shorts.

During my half marathons, I need the pockets on my RaceReady shorts to hold my gels.

And, after a I cross the finish line, I've had too many experiences where there is no bag for me to hold all the finisher food.  But, with my RaceReady shorts, my now emptied pockets on the back of my shorts are ready to hold many of the items I pick up in the finisher food line.


I am planning to buy more RaceReady shorts and other items soon.

If you are in the same boat, we are in luck.


Discount:  20%
Code:  NEWSITE
Expires:  September 5, 2011


For more info. and/or to shop at RaceReady, click here.

Happy savings!!!

Runned, Walked and Played at the Gym. August 25, 2011

It's 2 days before the Giant Race 1/2.  I am excited and a bit nervous.

Went for my last run before race day.

4.34 miles @ 0:52:34, which included 2 hills along the way.


Also went to the gym.

Weights, free weights and abs @ 0:35:00


And, walked 2.75 miles, trying to get to and from a bunch of places.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  795

Went for a Walk. August 25, 2011

Did a bunch of errands.

Walked 2.15 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:   107

Cramped Up During a Run and Played at the Gym. August 23, 2011

There's a heatwave today and probably for the next few days.  It was warm and humid.

Went for a short run.  I ran up a hill and went up some stairs.  Next thing I know I cramped up while going down a set of stairs before I even made it to Mile 2.  It sure surprised me!

After I stopped running, the cramped area still hurt even when I was walking.  I have the Giant Race 1/2 Marathon coming this weekend.  I have several days to mend.

Ran 3.82 miles @ 0:52:13


Afterwards went to the gym.  The AC was so nice at the gym.  Perhaps next time, I should play on the treadmill instead of going outside during a heatwave.

0:33:00 of weights, free weights and abs


Also, walked 1 mile.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  653

Walked 5 Miles. August 20, 2011

I slept like a log and felt much better today.  Definitely had more energy than yesterday.


Today, just went on a bunch of errands from point A to point B to point C to point D and so on.  There are moments when I wished I had a Segway to get me to and from all these points.

Walked 5 miles

Guestimate calories burned:  250

Runned, Walked and Played at the Gym and Needed Recharging. August 19, 2011

Today, I wished I was a electrical device and just plugged myself into a wall outlet for a quick recharge.


I woke up bright and early.  I didn't want to head out but made myself go.

Sometimes, I feel better after a run, but it didn't happen today.   Just felt tired and needed more sleep.

Along the way, I turned it into a fun run and just enjoyed the scenery.

6.23 miles @ 1:21:44



Despite feeling the need to recharge after my run, I went to the gym afterwards for 0:30:00 of weights, free weights and abs.

In addition, walked 3 miles.

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  867

Road Runner Sports Grand Reopening Event, San Carlos, CA: Saucony. August 19, 2011

The Road Runner Sports - San Carlos, CA store completed a remodeling and held several grand reopening events.

Although this event was quite a distance for me, I was passing thru and made it to one of the events.

Road Runner Sports - San Carlos during their grand reopening, August 2011

Shoe Dog

No, these are not the shoe recycle bins.  These are bins containing Saucony try on shoes for those doing the fun run.

Guest speaker:  Iron Lady Champion Meredith Kessler

And, if you are a Road Runner Sports VIP Member who stopped by, you get a goodie bag.

A Road Runner Sports VIP Goodie Bag

I had fun.  Thanks to Road Runner Sports, Saucony, Iron Lady Champion Meredith Kessler, Clif Bar and Massage Envy for the event.

Wished I was closer to this store.  I am envious of those who are.


For more info. on the following:

1. Road Runner Sports, click here.
2. Saucony, click here.
3. Clif Bar, click here.
4. Massage Envy, click here.
5. Iron Lady Champion Meredith Kessler, click here.

Walked 6.29 Miles

Errands everywhere and then some, so it felt.

Walked 6.29 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:  314

1st Post - Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon Workouts. August 18, 2011

Finally went out on my 1st post-Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon run.

Legs felt rusty and tired early on.  It also didn't help there was heavy headwinds.

5.08 miles @ 0:55:50

Also, made it to the gym for a workout on weights, free weights and abs:  0:30:00

In addition, walked 2 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  813

Race to the End of Summer 5k, 10k and Half Marathon, San Jose, CA. Half Off Registration. Event date: September 18, 2011. Discount valid ONLY on: August 18, 2011

Event:  Race to the End of Summer
Event date:  September 18, 2011

Half off:  5k, 10k and Half Marathon distances
Discount valid ONLY on:  August 18, 2011

To get in on this deal, click here.

Good luck!!!

Received Samples: New Stevia Formula Cytomax Sticks and Muscle Milk

Made it to the 2011 Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon over the past extended weekend.  Work schedule permitting, I'll try to put together an event report within 2 weeks.

Was surprised by a sample package I received in the mail when I got back.

New Stevia formula Cytomax sticks and a package of Muscle Milk.

I don't recall where or when I had signed up for the sample from but will hopefully try out the new Stevia formula Cytomax sticks soon.  Over the past weekend, the Cytomax at the RnR Chicago 1/2 expo were still the old formula Cytomax.

For more info. on Cytomax, click here.

Walked 5.6 Miles.

Errands everywhere, or so it feels like.

Walked 5.6 miles.

And, yes, the bottoms of my feet and my legs were aching when I was done for the day.

Guestimate calories burned:  280

Sigg Bottles: 50% Off Durable, Eco-Friendly Bottles. Ends August 16, 2011.

While working out at the gym, I often see these very fashionable and colorful Sigg Bottles.  I've put off purchasing 1 because my wallet has been pretty tiny.

But, here's a great deal for those who have been eying those Sigg Bottles:  50% off.

50% off.  My wallet is happy!!!

Some Fine Print:

• Limit two offer codes per person
• Not valid on previously placed orders
• Valid for purchase at www.mysigg.com only
• Not valid for sale or clearance merchandise
• Must use offer code to redeem
• Valid only in the US
• August 16, 2011, I believe, is the last date to purchase into this deal.  To prevent disappointment, I would make your purchase early.
• Expires Feb. 17, 2012.  This is the last date to redeem the offer.

To get in on this deal, click here.

Stay hydrated!!!

Ran 4.2 Miles, Walked 3.4 Miles and Went to the Gym.

A run, some walks and a visit to the gym.


Ran 4.2 miles @ 0:49:09.  Along the way, encountered 1 hills and many tourists.  Felt like race day simulation, weaving in and out.

Weights, free weights and abs at the gym.  0:30:00

And, 3.4 miles walked.


Guestimate calories burned:  823

Walked 2 Miles.

Sometimes, a walk is all that fits into my busy schedule.  It is better than nothing.

I got in 2 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:  50

My 2nd Post Event Run of 6.96 Miles and 4.07 Miles Walked.

This is my 2nd run after the (2011) San Francisco Marathon - 1st 1/2, and it's 2 days after 4 miles of speedwork.  There were 2 hills along the way.  My legs felt tired during the first 2 miles, but I was determined to chug out a longer distance.

At a shorter distance turnoff point, I saw several other runners turning off, but I was determined not to shortened the distance for myself.   As they say, no pain, no gain.


6.96 Miles @ 1:29:58 (Gross cal burned:  889)

Also, walked 4.07 miles.

Net calories burned:  789

First Post Event Run of 4 Miles, a Walk and the Gym. August 4, 2011

It's 4 days after my (2011) San Francisco Marathon - 1st Half Marathon, and I finally got in my first run.

I was going to run an easy 4 miler to see how my legs felt.

They felt great, so the run because a 4 miles of speedwork.

4 miles @ 0:42:55


In addition, I got in the following:

1. Walked 2.7 miles
2. Weights, free weights and ab machine at the gym

Guestimate calories burned:  711

Post Event Recovery Walk of 4.8 Miles. August 2, 2011

It's 2 days after the 2011 San Francisco Marathon - 1st Half, and my IT bands are still tight.

Walked 4.8 miles

Guestimate calories burned:  240

Hollywood Half Marathon, Hollywood, CA Registration is $39 off of Facebook Deals for Los Angeles, CA. Offer valid for a couple of days.

Originally, I blogged about the inaugural 2012 Hollywood Half Marathon, Hollywood, CA back on May 27, 2011.  Click here to see what I wrote.

Event date:  April 7, 2012


Currently, there's a limited time offer off of Facebook Deals for this half marathon.  It's $39.  Must have a Facebook account to make a purchase.

For more info., on the Hollywood Half Marathon, click here.

Quiznos Deal: Pay $6 for 2 Regular Subs or 2 Salads (A $12.98 Value!) - Nationwide Deal

A nice and delicious Quinos sandwich!

Some Fine Print:

1.  July 28, 2011 is the last date to purchase in to get this deal.
2. Expires Oct 30, 2011 (This is the last date to redeem offer.)
3. Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as a gift. Limit 1 per visit. Not valid for chips and soda. Valid only in continental US. Valid only at Quiznos locations that accept Groupons.

To see which Quiznos locations accept Groupons, click here and then enter your ZIP code.


To get in on this deal, do the following:

1. Click here.
2. Make sure you are located in the Groupon San Francisco, CA area.  (This is actually a nationwide deal, so if you select another location, it will also work.)
3. To see this offer, you  may or may not have to got to the center and top of the screen and click on "All Deals."

Happy dining!!!

Ran 4.13 Miles, including 2 Big Hills, Some Trail and Some Very Sandy Areas. July 26, 2011

I have a love/hate relationship with hills.  On one hand, I know I need to work on them more, but it doesn't make me like them that much.


Ran 4.13 miles @ 0:52:21

The route included 2 big hills and some trails, including some very sandy sections.  I am not found of the sandy sections.  I keep thinking my body would keep moving forward while one foot gets stuck in the sand, possibly propelling me onto the ground.  I took it slow on the sandy parts and managed not fall face forward into the dirt.


In addition, walked 1.65 miles

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  553

Ran 3 Miles, Walked 1 1/2 Miles and 30 Minutes of Weights. July 25, 2011

I managed to mixed things up today.

1.  3 miles @ 0:33:28 (This is what a tortoise's speedwork looks like.)
2.  Walked 1 1/2 miles
3.  30 minutes of weights at the gym

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  562

A Run, A Few Walks and Weights at the Gym.

Had a busy day and managed to get in a mix of things in.

6.32 miles, including some hills and a trail @ 1:20:53
4.32 miles walked
Weights at the gym @ 0:30:00

Guestimate calories burned:  1,100

5.04 Miles of Speedwork and 2.34 Miles Walked

My activities of the day:

5.04 miles @ 0:55:27 (This is what a tortoise's speedwork looks like.)
2.34 miles walked

The day's mileage:  7.34 miles.

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  761

3.15 Miles and Weights.

Got in an easy wog of 3.15 miles with intermissions @ 0:44:32.

Also, went to the gym and went thru a series of weight machines @ 0:30:00.

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  488

1st Easy Wog Post Sick: 4.4 Miles and Walked 2.34 Miles. July 19, 2011

So far, the food and fluids have been staying down.

Wogged:  4.4 miles @ 0:54:37

Walked:  2.34 miles @ 0:54:00


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  642

2012 LA Marathon Friends and Family Promo: $20 Registration Discount, 25% KWISS Coupon and a Free Training Plan. Ends: July 21, 2011 at 11:59 am PST.

Having completed the 2010 and 2011 LA Marathon, I really do love the Stadium to the Sea course, running from Dodgers' Stadium thru Hollywood, WeHo, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Century City before finishing along the beach in Santa Monica.

There's a 48 Friends and Family Promo for the 2012 LA Marathon with the code:  HLAM2012

For registering with the code, you get the following:

1. $20 off registration for the 2012 LA Marathon
2. 25% online coupon for KSWISS
3. free online training plan to try to get you to the finish line of the race

The code begins on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 12:00pm (PST) and ends on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 11:59am (PST).

Registrants do be aware of the following:

1. The owner of the LA Marathon and LA Dodgers had filed for bankruptcy, admist his messy divorce and struggle with MLB regarding ownership and control of the baseball team.  The LA Marathon folks are saying it is business as usual for them; it will be the Stadium to the Sea course; and that they are moving forward with the 2012 event, but come race day, who knows who might be owner or what may happen to the marathon and baseball team, whose facilities host the the start of the race.
2. The 2011 LA Marathon's gear check pickup area was left in total chaos.  The forecast for rain was up for over a week, and on race day, not a single tent was to be found over the gear check area.  No volunteers were manning the gear check.  Spilled contents were left strewn on the ground in the mud, gravel, sand and who knows what else.  It was a total find your own bag situation amidst the mix of bags and spilled contents.
3. The T shirt design and medal logo wasn't that great is an understatement.
4. The LA Marathon organizers said they would create a finisher's shirt to commemorate the crazy cold, windy and rainy weather that runners had to endure thru for the 2011 LA Marathon due to runners' interest, where news articles mentioned thousands were treated for hypothermia.  But, just one month later, they did a 180. 

For more info. about the LA Marathon, click here.

 Good luck!!!

Walked 5.77 Miles and Hit the Weight Machines at the Gym. July 18, 2011

Today was my 1st post sick outing.  I was on an unintended upchuck diet.  Am now several pounds lighter.

Walked:  5.77 miles @ 1:43:38
Weights at the gym:  30 minutes


Originally, I wasn't planning to walk that much and that far today, but there was a delay in the bus system.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  438

4.53 Miles including Hills

And, hill practice continues onward.  Oh, joy!

The famous Lyon Street Stairs.

Thankful for the brief intermission along the Lyon Street Stairs.

The Fort Mason Hill.  It's the 2nd hill on the Nike Women's Marathon course.

4.53 miles @ 1:00:55
Calories burned:  568

Chocolate Agave No. 9 Energy Gel Sample Offer. Mentioned in Competitor, July 2011 issue.

I was skimming thru the Competitor, July 2011 issue and noticed there was a free gel trial pack sample offer.

At first, I was a bit skeptical because the website had a date that the offer was valid thru 9/30/2010.

But, after waiting a short while, the gel sample trial pack of 1 did arrive in my mailbox.

My Chocolate Agave #9 sample.

To request your free sample, click here.

Happy sampling!!!

Western Pacific Marathon (Trail) Mini Race Report, Fremont, CA. Event date: April 16, 2011

Me, frying around Mile 13 or Mile 14.  Pic taken by Endorphin Dude.

A bunch of running crazies very happy we had finished.  From right to left, me, Diane, Endorphin Dude, Ultra Woof, Mattsaurs, David and Chriss Bliss.

 Overall:

1. This was my 1st trail marathon.  I generally prefer road events.
2. Although most of the course was flat, the gravel kicked my behind.  I don't own any trail running shoes, so I couldn't tell if it would have made a difference or not.
3. The weather also changed quickly from cold and windy to very hot past the 12.25 mile turnaround.  There was also no shade.
4. I have the BMO Vancouver Marathon 2 weeks after this one, so I didn't want to messed things up for the event in Vancouver.
5. Happy I finished and saw some familiar faces.  Very happy I finished!

The Course:

1. Quarry Lakes Regional Park, Fremont, CA
2. Initially, I jumped on this one because the course was flat. What I didn't expect until I was on the course was that the gravel made it way more challenging to run on.
3. The only "hills" along the way were the descent and ascent underneath bridges where vehicles passed over from one side to the other side.  There were quite a few of them along the way.
4. The multiuse paths were not too crowded.  I saw a few horses along the way.  A few folks were walking their dogs.  Once, I had to stop running because a dog decided to sniff me out.

 Weather:

1. Windy and cold early on.
2. Then, suddenly, it got very hot.

For this course next time, I'd shoot for a Half Marathon instead.

DSE 6 Hour Distance Classic Mini Race Report, San Francisco, CA. Event date: July 10, 2011

My 1st ever DSE finisher's ribbon for completing the 6 Hour Distance Classic.

Overall:

1. I was very happy with the number of laps completed and my mileage.  Mentally, I was fried completing 22 loops (1.061 mile per loop).  It was the first time I had gone around in circles that many times for a single event, so I really didn't know what to expect going in.
2. Had I had another 3 minutes, I could have completed another lap.
3. My wallet was also incredibly happy my event registration fee was $10, not including the pesky Active.com fees.

Course wise:  23.34 miles completed  (22 x 1.061)
Garmin:  24.25 miles completed


Course:
More than 50% dirt trail.  It was a 1.061 mile loop around part of Crissy Field in the Presidio.  It was relatively flat with 1 very tiny hill.

Along the way, some pebbles fell into my shoes, but I didn't stop to empty them out.  I will definitely wear gaiters next time


Scenery:
The Golden Gate Bridge, the Palace of Fine Arts and Alcatraz were in the backdrop.

.
Course Highlights:

1. A caterpillar crossed my path during 1 of my laps.  Usually, I wouldn't be that excited, but being mentally fried from completing so many laps, it was a highlight along the way.
2. Also, because it was a loop course, I passed and got passed by a few familiar faces, including Endorphin Dude and Ultra Woof.

Conditions:
It was windy on one side, while it was hot and congested on the other side.


Net guestimate calories burned:  1,222

3.82 Hilly Miles Recovery Wog/Hike. July 12, 2011

It's 2 days after my 6 Hour Distance Classic, and I was brave enough to head out the door.

Along the way, I snapped a few pics.

Top of Lombard Street, the most crookedest street in San Francisco.

Cable Car heading up Hyde Street.  I am so glad I was going downhill and not uphill.

The Hyde Street Cable Car turnaround.

Went by Ghirardelli Square.  I always seem to get a craving for chocolate when I go by.

Went up the Fort Mason Hill.  It's the second hill along the Nike Women's Marathon course.

Alcatraz hiding in the fog.

I am generally not fond of hills, but I know I must work on them more.


3.82 miles wogged and hiked @ 0:53:13
447 calories burned

Beard Papa's Deal: 50% off, Sanford, FL (Greater Orlando, FL area)

Anyone likes Beard Papa's cream puff pastries in the greater Orlando, FL area?

There are actually 2 deals going on at the Beard Papa's in Sanford, FL, and they are the following:
• For $10, you get $20 worth of cream puffs and other treats.
• For $20, you get $40 worth of cream puffs and other treats.

Delicious Beard Papa's cream puffs!!!

Some Fine Print:

• June 9, 2011 is the last date to purchase in to get this deal.
• Expires Oct 11, 2011 (This is the last day to redeem offer in-store).
• Limit 1 per person, may buy 2 additional as gifts. Limit 1 per table. Limit 1 per visit. Valid only for option purchased. Not valid for mochi ice cream.
• 25 is the tipping point for this offer to become valid.

Offer is valid ONLY at the following location:

Beard Papa's - Sanford
4922 W SR46
Sanford, Florida 32771
Get Directions

To get in on this deal, do the following:

1. Click here
2. Make sure you are located in the Groupon Orlando, FL area
3. To see this deal, you may or may not have to go to the center and top of your computer screen and click on "All Deals"

Happy dining!!!

Harry Potter Sport Silicone Wristbands and a Free Movie Ticket Offer. Free Movie Ticket Offer Ends: July 14, 2011

Any Harry Potter fans out there?

EFXUSA has created a line of officially licensed Harry Potter Signature sport silicone wristbands.

In addition, for a limited time, if you purchase a Harry Potter sport silicone wristband without any discounts, you will also receive a ticket to see the movie.  (Offer valid from July 7, 2011 thru July 14, 2011.)

The Harry Potter Signature Series Hogwarts School Sport Silicone Wristband

A couple of my running friends have EFXUSA sport silicone wristbands.  They swear their wristbands work and gave them more energy on their runs.

For more info. in the Harry Potter energy wristbands and/or to order, click here.

Anyhow, hope to see you at the movies!!!

$10 off Portland Marathon Registration, Portland, OR. Event date: October 9, 2011

Anyone want to run in the Portland Marathon on October 9, 2011?

Here's a code:

$10 off
Code:  MARATHON10


For more info. on the Portland Marathon, click here.

Good luck!!!

Literally Left Outside, lululemon San Francisco Run Club Kick Off Event. June 30, 2011

I had been looking forward to checking out the revamped lululemon San Francisco Run Club, but I was disappointed at what occurred.  I was literally left outside after finishing my run, which has never happened to me ever before anywhere else.

The Start - lululemon on Grant Avenue.  I had been looking forward to the event.

The run itself was at times very hilly, very windy and sometimes scenic, but I was fine with the run itself.

I even came across a couple of famous spots along the way.  Here are a couple of pics:

Lombard Street, the crookedest street in San Francisco

The Palace of Fine Arts

At the end of most of my runs, I am usually happy, feeling that I had made it to the finish line for that day.

Today, I felt the same way until I got to the Finish, which was the lululemon store on Union Street.

When I approached the Finish, I saw a bunch of runners outside the store.  I thought it was kind of odd that there were that many people outside the store.  Also, normally, I usually would see smiles after a run was over, but everyone seemed sad and too quiet today.

I didn't find out why until I got to the door of the store why.  The lady there was turning everyone away.  She wasn't rude and certainly wasn't mean.  She was turning everyone away because there was a yoga class in session inside the store, and they were not allowing anyone in until the class was over.

I was stunned.  They did mention there would be a yoga class at 7:15 pm, but no where did they mention that everyone would be left outside until it was over.

Another disappointment was that it was a warm day, and I was thirsty along my run, thinking of a nice cup of cold water to drink just after I finished.  I didn't see any drinks outside.

I told the lady I was thirsty.  She went inside a couple of feet away from the front door and got me a cup of water to quench my thirst.
 
I thought the saddest part of it all was when I went down the street to some other store to change my clothes.


Add on:
I did receive an apology from someone at lululemon.

"Dear Mae, so sorry we weren't prepared with water outside the store for our runners. We'll be sure to have water readily availbel next time! Thanks for coming out to the run club event and hope to see you soon:)"