Sidelined with a Fever. December 23, 2012

Lately, healthwise, things hasn't been going very well.

Last month, I caught a cold.  I eventually recovered.

This month, I caught a cold.  I eventually recovered.

Now, I caught a fever.  When I tried to fall asleep, I knew something was terribly wrong.  My hands and feet felt icy cold even though I had a comfortable layer of goose down over me.

A fever of 100.6 F.

Now, I am sick with a fever.

Too Much Pizza. December 21, 2012

I know I am blessed that my workplace provided so much food when so many are going empty elsewhere, but I really fell off the eating wisely bandwagon.

Over 2 meals, I woofed down either 6 or 7 slices of pizza over the course of a day.

Carbo loaded and then some.

I better find time to get my runs in.

Wogged 16.06 Miles. December 19, 2012

Very happy to be out and about after having not one but two colds over a several week period.  It was no fun sitting on the bench.

Wogged 16.06 miles.

For the first several miles, my legs felt out of sync.  Things didn't feel like they clicked in until Mile 8.

The change of seasons was evident.  By the time, I got to Mile 15, my hands were extremely cold.

Note to thyself:  Bring gloves.


16.06 miles @ 3:37:26

Net calories burned:  1,007

4.05 Miles with a Cold

I still have a cold.  At times I am congested, and a box of tissue is still my best friend.

Today, I pushed myself out the door for an easy run, but it wasn't easy.

By the time, I was finished.  My nose was stuffed and needed ablowing.  Note to thyself:  Take tissues next time out.

4.05 miles @ 0:52:12

Calories burned:  397

Sick with a Cold Again

Ugh...  I just recovered from a cold recently and here we go again.

The nose is running.  I am coughing, and a box of tissue is my best friend again.

I had to nix a run today.

What Happens When You Don't Train for a Marathon: My Double Dog Dare Marathon Report, September 25, 2012

Sometimes, you have to make do with what you have.  But, in doing so, be careful and don’t get injured.

I signed up for the no frills, low key Double Dog Dare Marathon just to see what would happen.

Going in, my training had been lacking.  My mileage base has been fading more on the half marathon distance than the marathon, but I decided to give it a whirl.  As they say, you won’t know until you try.  If things feel bad, just slow down and if necessary, just stop and live to run another day.

I am use to completing half marathons, so the first 13.1 miles went by without much of a hiccup.

Mile 14 – It always feels weird, thinking that the finish was back at 13.1 miles instead.

Mile 15 – I am still running and walking along.  My legs are definitely feeling some wear over the distances covered.

Mile 16 – My legs are starting to feel tighter and tighter.

Mile 17 – The wheels starting to fall off.  One of my IT bands started to bother me.

Mile 18 – My walk breaks became more frequent and longer to give one of my IT bands a longer break.

Mile 19 – I took it easy, thinking that I will pick up things during Mile 20 and onwards.

Mile 20 – I tried to pick up the pace, but by the time I reached Mile 21, my pace just wouldn’t hold.

Miles 21 and 22 – The marathon shuffle kept going.  I kept shuffling along and giving frequent walk breaks, but my legs felt tired, often tight.  One of my IT bands got increasingly unhappy.

Mile 23 – One of my IT bands says, “We’re done.”  I literally can feel my knee area being pulled each time as I tried to run.  The pulls felt bigger and bigger each time when I tried to run.

Mile 24 to the Finish – I’m now on “Please just be able to walk or crawl across the finish line.”

Mile 26.2 - Oh, no...  The course went long.

Finish – I was so glad I was able to walk across the finish and that it was over.

It was ugly, but I did it.

My Double Dog Dare Marathon "bling" is the most cutest bling I had ever received.

Hours later after I got home, I sat down in a chair.  To my shock, when I tried to get up, I was not able to.  It seemed my leg with the IT band issues must have cramped up.


In hindsight:  Although things were ugly, I don't regret going out and trying to complete this marathon.  I really learned a lot from this one.

Chipotle: Spend $30 or more on a gift card, Get a Burrito or Something Else Back

I have to admit I have a weakness for Chipotle burritos and bowls.  I finally made it into a Chipotle and plunked down $30 for a gift card.  I not only get a gift card for my $30 but a free burrito or bowl on my next visit with my receipt.

Spend $30 or more on a gift card, get a burrito or something else.

What are you waiting for?  Run to your nearest Chipotle.

For a Chipotle near you, click here.

Free food item must be redeemed by 1/31/13.

I am Honored to Be a Guinea Pig: Thorlo Experia Socks; 8 Miles

Look what arrived in my mailbox the other day...

Thorlo Experia Socks

I am very honored to be selected to product test and review a pair of Thorlo Experia Socks for RW Pacesetters.

I went on an unplanned 8 miler in them.

8 miles @ 1:41:25

No fluids.  No gels.  And, unfortunately, no headlamp.  It was pretty dark for a few miles that I had to slow down because I couldn't see that far ahead of me.

Calories burned:  802

Recovering from a Cold; Product Review: New Balance 890v2. November 10, 2012

I spent the last week recovering from a cold and a couple of nosebleeds.  Unfortunately, I had blown my nose too many times over the past week I ended up with a couple of nosebleeds along the way.

I am glad my sniffles have stopped, and I was able to make my way over to a local running event, where New Balance shoes can be road tested.

I had been hoping they have a version of the 1080, a neutral, cushiony shoe but alas they didn't.  They had the 890v2, so 890v2 it is for the road test.

Lightweight and neutral New Balance 890.

I went out on an easy 5k in them along the concrete jungle of some even and not so uneven asphalt areas.  They were not too bad on the hard concrete areas; I had feared worse on those surfaces.  They were considerably lighter than the Asics Gel Nimbus 14 I usually run in.  The turnovers seem quick and easy.

All in all, a nice, lightweight shoe if I like 5ks or even 10ks, but for half marathons or longer, I'd stuck with my Asics Gel Nimbus.


For more info. on New Balance shoes, click here.

Rats! I Caught a Cold

Sniff, sniff, literally.  I caught a cold and had to take a day off from work.  I am itching to go outside for a short run, but it doesn't feel good when my nose is on a run on its own.

Will try to get in some yoga indoors later.

Rebuilding: 8.04 Miles in the Fog, Cold and Mist

My work schedule seemed to have calmed down (knock on wood), so I will try to rebuild my running base and try to blog more regularly.

The last 4 weeks have been crazy.  I didn't get to train much but completed the following 3 events:

09/25/12 - Double Dog Dare Marathon
10/07/12 - Rock 'n Roll San Jose Half Marathon
10/14/12 - Nike Women's Half Marathon


I am very happy to have just been out there and completed the aforementioned events.  More tidbits soon regarding how each of those went.

-----

For today, 8.04 miles in the fog, cold and mist.

Downed an Accel Gel from a box of Accel Gels I had won in a raffle a few months back.

Net calories burned:  682

8.16 Miles and Yoga

Finally, my work schedule has eased up a bit.

Got in 8.16 miles.  Was underfueled.  Legs still felt out of sync.  But, I know that if I keep going, things will fall back into place.

8.16 miles @ 1:40:08


Also, got in 30 minutes of yoga while watching TV.


Guestimate net calories burned:  762

Yoga, Yoga and More Yoga. September 6, 11 and 12, 2012.

Busy, busy and busy with work and then some.

So, it's yoga, yoga and yoga.


30 minutes on each of the following dates:

• 9/6/12
• 9/11/12
• 9/12/12

Guestimate calories burned each time:  90

Celliant Tech T-Shirt Test and Kept on Going: 8.01 Miles

I was planning on 6 miles.  But, I felt great, so I kept on going.

I also finally tested out my long sleeve tech T shirt from the 2012 SF Marathon - 2nd Half.

It felt a bit warm but not overly hot.

The tech T is made by Celliant.  The fibers on the shirt are suppose to direct energy back into the body to improve oxygen going thru your bloodstream to improve your performance.  Even with the long sleeves rolled up, I really felt if I had a thinner or lighter shirt, I would have ran better.  Perhaps, this shirt is meant for running in colder weather than around 55 F.


8.01 miles @ 1:36:20


Guestimate calories burned:  887


For more on info. on Celliant, click here.

Half of an Hour of Yoga

Downward dog is definitely better for the core than planks.

Guestimate calories burned:  90

Hoka One One Bondi B: Too Narrow

I keep hearing many marathoners and ultra-marathoners commenting how wonderful the running shoes from Hoka One One are.  They are lightweight without sacrificing the much needed cushioning one needs from a very long run.

For those have never heard of Hoka One One.  It is a brand of shoes.  They are known for being very lightweight as well as great cushioning.

I really do want my shoes lightweight without sacrificing cushioning.  But, the price tag is $170.

Yes, folks, it's no typo, a road running pair of shoes from Hoka One One, the Bondi B, costs $170.

I thought about it on and off for about a week before caving in.

I caved in and purchase a pair of Hoka One One Bondi B.

I had to order them online from Zappos as none of the local stores had them.

When I finally received the box, I was very excited.  I felt like a child on Christmas morning.

I gently opened the box of shoes, untied the shoelaces and pulled the papers that had been stuffed into the shoes.

I then put them on.  But, immediately after putting them on, I was disappointed.

The Hoka One One Bondi B's are too narrow for my feet.  The toe box is fine. The heel area is fine.  But, the shoes are just too narrow for my feet.

I was very sad to send the shoes back.  It was not meant to be.

But, my wallet is happy it is getting $170 back.

Half an Hour of Yoga. August 31, 2012

Pressed for time, so made most of it today.

Half an hour of yoga.

Guestimate calories burned:  90

An Easy 13.11 Miles

I finally found a small gap in between my crazy work schedules for a long run.  I really wanted to take things easy and enjoy the scenery along the way.

It was windy at times, and I definitely had some headwinds along the way.


Mile 6 - 1 of my knees didn't like me.

Mile 11 and 12 - A tree had fallen, spilling debris across my path.  Because it was an out and back portion, I had to cross the debris area twice.  The first time, I went thru too quickly, almost twisting an ankle on some large sized acorns.  So, the second time, I went thru it, I literally walked thru it.  I am not taking any chances of getting injured here.


13.11 miles @ 2:40:28

Guestimate net calories burned:  958

I Forgot My Sports Bra. August 22, 2012

I had a busy day the next day, so I had to pack next day's gym clothes in a hurry.

Next day, when my work day ended, I was really looking forward to short run followed by a gym workout.  But, when I went to change clothes, something was missing.

I can't believe I forgot my sports bra.

Rats!  No run today.

It wasn't meant to happen.

Squeezing in a Half

I am incredibly pressed for time this week.  I am juggling a lot of hours at my two jobs.  I also have to take my mom to see her Dr.

I really wanted to go for a run but was only able to squeeze in half an hour of yoga.


Guestimate calories burned:  120

Tired on the Treadmill. August 19, 2012

I was very tired from work recently, but I made myself go the gym.

I got on the treadmill and went about my business.  Unfortunately, I was a lot tired than I thought I was.  No, I didn't fall off the treadmill.  But, after struggling to get in a solid 2 miles, I knew today wasn't my day.  I ecked out about a 5k before calling it quits on the treadmill.

Afterwards, I did about 0:40:00 of weights and abs.

There will be another day...


Guestimate calories burned:  420

Product Test: Nike LunarGlide 4

I have to admit I love playing with running shoes.  If someone said free product trials, I would be game.

Nike LunarGlide 4

I went for a spin in the Nike LunarGlide 4 today.  They felt lightweight but not minimal light.  I did noticed that there seems to be more mid foot cushioning compared to the previous version.

Got in 4 miles on them @ 0:45:31.


Personally, I ran my first marathon in a pair of Nike LunarGlide and am cautious against them for anything longer than 15 miles.  For myself, I would not hesitate to pick a Nike LunarGlide for anything less than that distance.  Anything more, I'd go with something else.


Afterwards, went to the gym.

Weights and abs:  0:40:00


Guestimate calories burned:  590

Pushed Hard for 8 Miles Before Giving It Up and Then Some

As they say, "No pain, no gain."

There was once a time I could go practically all out for an entire half marathon.

But, that was then, and this is now.  After being sidetracked by work, work and more work, I am not sure what fitness level I am currently at.

I used today's long run of 13.1 miles to gauge myself.

I pushed very hard for 8 miles, but the last few miles was miserable and hard.

I also had the following issues along the way:

1. Mile 6 - 1 of my knees didn't like me
2. At Miles 9, 11 and after I stopped - My stomach was upset with me.

Well, now, I know what fitness level I am at.


13.1 miles @ 2:38:21


Guestimate calories burned:  1,041

 

TRX Class Fail. August 9, 2012

I am curious about TRX.  A local sporting goods store offered a free class, so one of my friends and I showed up.

But, the instructor didn't show up.

What a bummer!  TRX class fail.

I'll Take Yoga for a Half

...half an hour that is.

Sometimes, my schedule doesn't permit me to stop by the gym to play with all those weight machines, but it doesn't mean I'll go sit on a bench somewhere and do nothing.

Yoga @ 0:30:00


Guestimate calories burned:  90

4 Miles Trying to Push the Pace Here and There

As they say, if you want to get a faster, you got to push the pace.

I pushed a bit here and there today.

4 miles @ 0:47:27


Guestimate calorie burned:  478

Stopped for Traffic During the 2012 SF Marathon - 2nd Half Marathon. Event date: July 29, 2012

I had a very bad customer experience at the 2011 San Francisco Marathon (SF Marathon) which made me want to swear off their events until their event reviews are much better.  I'll save that race review for another day.  I never put that one up on my blog because I left the door somewhat opened for them to try to do the right thing.

The only reason why I signed up for the 2012 SF Marathon - 2nd Half was because it had partnered up with my favorite marathon, the Los Angeles Marathon (LA Marathon) for the LA/SF Challenge.

Those who complete the LA Marathon and either the Full, the 1st Half, or 2nd Half of the SF Marathon during a specified time period would complete the LA/SF Challenge and would receive a special medal.  And, who doesn't want a special medal especially if it involves your favorite marathon.


Expo
They gave me the wrong bib.

I was supposed to receive either the LA/SF Challenge bib or Half It All Challenge bib; I got neither.  I had to stop by the LA/SF Challenge and Half It All Challenge table for them to affix the correct sticker/stamp for me to get my bonus medals after my event. 

It really is no fun that when they mess up, you get stuck in a line for them to fix the problem.


Timing Chip Check Fail
Last year, when I checked to see my timing chip, it didn't know who I was.  This year, I went to check my timing chip only to find out their timing chip check machines were not working.

Timing chip checker not working.  I'd be worried.

Great Shirt Offer But...

Their registration machines were not working.

I went to try to get the pricing for 2013 events at the computer area they set up for the promo T offer.  Others were trying to register.  But, clicking on 'Enter" and clicking on the "Register" button went nowhere.  I am not sure if the connections were bad or if the links were dead because 2013 is next year; perhaps the 2013 links were not yet functional.

Several folks also tried to register using their smartphones.  Unfortunately,  no luck there as the SF Marathon page only brought up registration info for 2012.  When you click "Register," it only brought up the info that the 1st Half for this year was sold out and that there may be limited lots available for the other events at the expo.

I inquired at the Solutions area for the URL for registering for 2013.  They told me, "We don't know."

Pretty sad they have a nice T shirt off to promote 2013, and they can't even take people's money.


Race Day
The start area of the 2nd Half was a mixed bag.  The heating lamps were great, if you were able to get near one.  The number of porta potties were awesome.  But, they really need more garbage cans.  They also need more water and electrolyte beverage.

Ready or Not, We're Off...

Because the SF Marathon offers 2 half marathons, you really have to pay attention to the signage when running in Golden Gate Park.  If you do not, you can literally "finish" your 2nd Half by running thru the 1st Half's finish line.  And, since you paid so much money to run a half, you really don't want to run about 5 miles.  Or, do you?

The finish line for the 1st Half.  This is not the finish line for the 2nd Half.

Golden Gate Park at times is very pretty with all the trees, grass, and fresh air  Sometimes, it's hard to believe you are in a major city.  Eventually, you exit Golden Gate Park.

Exiting Golden Gate Park.

Because San Francisco is known for its hills, you really want to make up for the uphills by taking advantage of as many downhills as possible.  As I was picking up speed running downhill on Haight St., I was shocked when I got to Divisadero St.

Our race was stopped for traffic.  Note vehicle driving thru the cross walk.

I really couldn't believe it.  Us, runners, were stopped, so traffic could go thru.  I was NOT happy is an understatement, but I kept my head together to just keep moving ahead.

At one point, the course turned off near the new San Francisco Mint.

The new SF Mint.

The last hill of the SF Marathon and 2nd Half is around Mile 22.  Very glad some folks were cheering in this more deserted area of town. 

After being stopped for traffic during this race, a hi-five from the doggy made me much happier.

I believe doggy and kitty were part of the Sports Basement cheer squad.  Not too far away were the folks from lululemon.

The lululemon cheer squad was also on the course.  Thanks, lululemon!

If you are a baseball fan, running by AT&T Park, home of the SF Giants baseball team is definitely a highlight.

Upon approaching AT&T Park, do not be deceive.  The ballpark is farther away than it looks.

The race went by the Lefty O'Doul Gate.

After AT&T Park, the race heads to the finish and here's the finish ahead:

The 2nd Half (right) and Marathon finish line.

Chip:  2:36:41


I am very happy with my finish time.  This is a new personal record for me for this event as I was able to shave over 5 minutes off my time from the 2009 SF Marathon - 2nd Half.  Due to my work hours, I also wasn't able to train as much, so shaving off that much time made me incredibly happy.

On the other hand, I am not happy with being stopped for traffic in the middle of a race.

I also didn't see any gels on course during my race.

Half an Hour of Yoga

Got in 30 minutes of yoga while watching the Olympics.

I have to admit that watching all these Olympic swimming events does want to make me jump into a pool and just swim.

Guestimate calories burned:  90

Watching the Olympics and Yoga

I really enjoy watching the Olympics.  I managed to get in 30 minutes of yoga today while watching the Olympics.

Guestimate calories burned:  90

1st-Post San Francisco 2nd Half Marathon Run. August 1, 2012

Got in my 1st-post San Francisco 2nd Half Marathon Run this day.  Work schedules permitting, I am hoping to have a recap of my race up during this coming weekend (crossing my fingers).

Today, mentally and physically, I was tired from work and even had second thoughts on running this day.  At one point, I told myself, "Don't be silly.  I never felt bad after a run," and pushed myself outside.

4.33 hilly miles and some headwinds @ 0:53:30


After the run, sometime told me that I did too much for my recovery run.  But, my legs felt great.

Afterwards went to the gym for a 0:35:00 weights and abs workout.


Guestimate calories burned:  575

4.3 Miles with Some Hills

Got in 4.3 miles today.  It was hilly for the 1st 1.5 miles.  It wasn't fun going up them hills, but I know it has to be done.


4.3 @ 0:51:19


Afterwards went to the gym for some weights and abs workout.


Guestimate calories burned:  570

Howling Winds Lead to an Indoor Kinda of Day: 1 Hour Yoga

There's a storm system going thru.  The winds are howling, and I can hear the tree branches waving most of the day.

1 hour of yoga indoors

Guestimate calories burned:  180

A New Weight Low and 2.8 Hilly and Hot Miles. July 21, 2012

Occasionally, I show up for a run with a local sporting goods store.  Sometimes, it is out of my way, but at least this way, I get to run a route that I probably would not run on my own.

It was a hot one today.  Many folks, including myself, opted to run across along the shadier side of the street on the return portion of the route.

2.8 miles @ 0:33:52


Afterwards went to the gym for 30 minutes of weights and abs.

When I got on the scale, I was happy, thrilled and everything else.  My weight has hit a new low.  I haven't weighed that less in over a decade.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  400

Half an Hour of Yoga

A little bit of this.  A little bit of that...

0:30:00
Guestimate calories burned:  90

4.2 Miles with Some Familar Faces

I use to have a running home where I would show up regularly after work for my runs.  But, due to some job changes, I was left running homeless for some time.

Work-wise, things have changed again, and it looks like I will be calling an older running home my running home once more.

Today, I felt sad, happy and thrilled to be able to see so many familiar faces.


4.2 miles @ 0:42:13 with some cable car hills and down hills

Afterwards, went to the gym for a 0:30:00 weights and abs workout.

It feels good to be home.

Guestimate calories burned:  540

My 1st Yoga Class: So That's What Those Poses Are

For some time, I have been watching many folks ferrying their yoga mats here and there, and I wanted to try a yoga class to see what's it about.  But, somehow, things in the universe never seem to align themselves.

My original plans for the day had changed at the last minute, and I had heard there was a free yoga class hosted by a local sporting goods store.  So, I thought, this could be the alignment in the stars I needed to try one out.


Here's what I learned from my 1st yoga class:
1) So that's what those poses are...  They included:  a) cat, b) cow, c) child, d) plank, e) cobra, f) downward dog, g) warrior, h) tree and i) side angle poses.
2) My attention span and yoga don't seem to be a match.
3) I realized my balance wasn't great at times, but I got a very good core workout.
and 4) I was so tired from working late last night, the yoga mat looked very inviting to take a nap on.

The yoga mat looked inviting for nap time.

Post-1st yoga class, I have to admit, I don't believe it's a match for me.  But, I am game to try things out a few times just to try learn something new.


Later this day, I got in 4 miles.

4 miles @ 0:45:23
Guestimate calories burned from yoga and running:  659

Original Yo-plait Calcium Levels Drop

I'm one of those folks who read the labels on food containers.

For a short while, I was consuming Original Yo-plait yogurt fairly often because the label says the yogurt meets 50% of one's daily calcium requirement, provided one consumed 2,000 calories per day.

Old Original Yo-plait meets 50% daily calcium level.

Recently, Original Yo-plait redid their packaging.  And, when I looked closer at their label, there was a noticeable drop in calcium.

New Original Yo-plait meets 20% daily calcium level.

As I get older I get more concerned with bones and bone issues.  Looks I will just go drink more milk instead.

4.01 Miles in My New Asics Gel Nimbus 14. July 11, 2012

I took a new spin in my new Asics Gel Nimbus 14 the other day.

Asics Gel Nimbus 14 in Neon/Royal

The 14's do feel lighter and more responsive compared to previous Gel Nimbus models.  I believe I have owned previous versions from 9 thru 13.  Longer runs of 13 to 26.2 miles down the road will tell me if it's a good shoe or not.  If it's anything like its previous versions, it's a good shoe.


 I pushed the pace today, and boy, do I need work.
 

4.01 miles @ 0:48:03
Calories burned:  480

$10 off the Big Gay 10k. Event date: September 15, 2012

10k events are rare in my area, so there isn't that many to choose from.

Here's one with a $10 coupon:

Big Gay 10k
Event date:  September 15, 2012
$10 off
Code:  aidswalk
No expiration date was listed for the code.


The event is produced and benefits the San Francisco AIDS Foundation.  Fundraising is optional. 


For more info. on the Big Gay 10k, click here.

Happy savings!

10% off at Road ID. Expires: 7/31/12

I had a change of medication recently and needed to update my Road ID.

With luck, there's a 10% off discount floating around.

Just thought I'd share.


To get in on the discount, click on the Road ID logo on the right side of my blog and enter in the code below during the ordering process:

10% off
Code:  pcTanline12
Expires:  7/31/12


Have fun and stay safe out there!

13.1 Miles on July 6, 2012

An easy 13.1 miles.

Felt out of shape at times, but I got it done.

Equipment failure:
Hole ripped in running shorts; keys felled out along the run.  Fortunately, I heard them dropped and did a U-turn to retrieve them.

13.1 miles @2:45:45

Net calories burned: 1037

Happy 4th of July

Hope everyone is enjoying some time with loved ones, over barbeque, some beer and some fireworks.

Happy 4th of July

Have a great time and stay safe!

New Burger King Veggie Burger and Sweet Potato Fries

Dr. Oz had the new Burger King Veggie Burger on his show the other day.  If the Dr. approves, sure, why not?  Here's a pic of my first Burger King Veggie Burger and an order of Sweet Potato Fries. Yummy!!!

New Burger King Veggie Burger and Sweet Potato Fries

The new Veggie Burger and Sweet Potato Fries are available at limited Burger King locations.

If you hold the mayo on the Veggie Burger, it's only about 320 calories.  A medium order of Sweet Potato Fries is about 390 calories, compared to the 410 calories of an order of Medium Fries.

Happy dining!

$100 off Ragnar Relay Napa Valley (CA). Expires: July 10, 2012

A few of my running friends have participated in teams during some of the Ragnar Relays.  A couple of them have done more than 1.  If you run multiple events during a time period, the bonus bling is absolutely gorgeous.

The relays often take place over the course of 2 days, including overnight, usually covering about 200 miles.  I was told it's like a moving party from beginning to the end.  Perhaps, someday, time permitting I would partcipate in one.

The Ragnar Relay Napa Valley is currently offering a $100 discount.  I believe the course goes thru wine country, over the famous Golden Gate Bridge and eventually finishing in Calistoga.

Ragnar Relay Napa Valley

September 14-15, 2012

$100 off

Code:  NV12ACT

Expires:  July 10, 2012

Valid only when code is entered during registration process and not valid on existing teams.

 

For more info. on Ragnar Relay, click here.

Happy savings!

5.09 Out of Shape Miles on Tired Legs

Legs felt tired from my 8+ miler 2 days ago, so I tried to go easy on them. Felt a bit out of shape, but I will eventually get there.

5.09 miles @ 1:04:18

Calories burned:  569

$10 off SF Marathon - 2nd Half Marathon. Expires: 6/29/12

The SF Marathon has a new sponsor for the 2nd Half Marathon, Hill & Co, and are offering $10 off the 2nd Half Marathon.

Those are are familiar with the SF Marathon knows that they offer a choice of 2 half marathons every year.  The 1st Half covers mostly the 1st half of the full SF Marathon course, while the 2nd Half Marathon mostly covers the 2nd half of the full SF Marathon course.

Highlights of each half marathon:

• 1st Half - The highlight:  Running in the foot bed of the famous Golden Gate Bridge.  The 1st Half is definitely the more scenic of the 2 half marathons here, but the downside is that it has more hills.
• 2nd Half - The 2nd Half Marathon is flatter than the 1st Half.  If you're a baseball fan, it runs by AT&T Park, home of the SF Giants, baseball team.  It also runs thru the Haight Ashbury and the Mission districts.  A big downside to the 2nd Half is that you'll get to run 5 miles of the half marathon in Golden Gate Park, so you'll only run and see 8 miles thru the rest of the City.

$10 off 2nd Half Marathon
Use Code: DSC10HILLCONF2012
Expires: Friday, June 29th*

*Code expires at 11:59 PST on June 29, 2012.  Cannot be used with any other offer or discount.  Discount only applies to the 2012 2nd Half Marathon.

On the Come Back Trail: 8.11 Miles

Originally, going for 4 to 6 miles but felt great just to be out there and went farther.  Didn't carry any fluids and no gels.

8.11 miles @ 1:41:29

Calories burned:  943

The Lights are On: New Fridge is In and Back to Running

I had been planning a come back to running several weeks ago but was sidelined by a fridge slowly dying on me.  The fridge wasn't cooling the items and wouldn't stay on long enough to keep things cool.  Eventually, it stopped working.

The Big Challenge:  Clearing a path for the old fridge to leave and a new one put in.

The Lights are On!  Back to Running.

 Watch out!  The Wogging Tortoise is on the come back trail.

20 Miles and Am Happy. February 28, 2012

This is it.  This is my last 20 miler before race day.

In a perfect world, an 18 week training program would have been in place; I wouldn't have to put in that many hours at work along the way; and, I also would have had 3 - 20 milers as my long runs going in.

But this is reality, and as it stands, I had to work lots of hours and was only able to get in 2 - 20 milers.

Several weeks ago, I got in a 20 miler, and things were very rough, mentally and physically.  For more details of how rough it was, click here.

Today was much happier.  I didn't have to bargain with myself as much compared to the last time out.

I also ate a lot more along the way, so my tummy wasn't as upset with me.


20 miles @ 4:28:24
Guesstimate net calories burned:  1,046

Nike+ FuelBand: I'm Afraid to Open the Package

To those who run, some of you may have noticed Nike has been dropping limited numbers of the new Nike+ FuelBand a few times on and off of their website for sale.

Although I haven't understood completely what the new Nike+ FuelBand does, my experience with the Nike+ Sport Band was a positive experience to have nudged me into grabbing one of the Nike+ FuelBands.

I received my Nike+ FuelBand the other day and have already heard there are issues with syncing to the Nike+ system.  Coupled that with Nike+ is about to undergo a makeover later this year, makes me excited but also nervous.

My New Nike+ Fuel Band.  I'm Afraid to Open the Package.

The Nike+ FuelBand is suppose to track your movements via an accelerometer.  It's really a non-running device as it doesn't track mileage, distance or pace.

After you record your moments using the Nike+ FuelBand, you can sync them to Nike+.  It's suppose to be  tool to measure your physical activity and helps you reach your goals.


Retails:  Around $150 US.

To learn more about the Nike+ Fuel Band, click here.

20.01 Miles Including Some Very "Dark" Miles. February 12, 2012

The pressure is on to get back on track.

I really need to get this long run done.

The first few miles were just awful mentally.

I was depressed, thinking I might fall short.  A part of me was thinking that come event day, instead of me heading to the start line of a marathon, it might be wise just to stay home.

I was also mad at myself for working too much.

Eventually, those negative thoughts disappeared as the first few miles disappeared behind me.

Things felt pretty normal up to 13.1 miles.  To date, I have completed over 30 half marathons, so I am very confident up to 13.1 miles.  It's what's past 13.1 miles that concerns me.

When I passed the 13.1 mile, I became concerned.

At Mile 16, the wheels started to fall apart.

At Mile 17, I had reach into my "bag of tricks:"

• Just to the next tree.
• Just to the next bench.
• Or, how about to the next parked car?

At Mile 18, a part of me wanted to stop.  But, I had to keep telling myself, "We got all the way to Mile 18.  Come on.  Just a bit more."

At Mile 19, I felt really awful.  My stomach felt funny.  I suspect it was to my being a bit under fueled this time out.  Next time, I need to eat more.

But, I did it!  I reached Mile 20.

20 miles @ 4:27:58

Net calories burned:  1,529

-----

What a doozy of a 20 miler.  So glad it's done.  Schedule wise, I believe I can only fit 1 more 20 miler before race day.

My goal is just to complete the marathon on race day.  After today, I am a bit more confident I am going to complete it.

Not Yet 11.75 Miles and Already Tired

I pushed myself out the door for an ez - ez, go as long as you can.  And, I can't believe I was tired before I made it to 11.75 miles.

I was disappointed, but today's experience is sending me a clear message loud and clear:  Get more sleep!!!


11.66 miles @ 2:33:22


In addition, walked 3 miles.

Guestimate net calories burned:  947

Amica Race Series offers 25% Off over the 2012 Super Bowl Weekend: Newport, RI, Boston, MA and Henderson, NV Events Only.

Everyone's probably busy stocking up on chips, dips, hot dogs, hamburgers, chickens and what not in preparation of this weekend's Super Bowl.

If you have a moment or so, those interested in saving 25% off some of the Amica Race Series in the following cities are in luck:

1. Newport, RI
2. Boston, MA
3. Henderson, NV

I checked, and there doesn't seem to be a code.  You just click on the appropriate event (Newport, RI, Boston, MA or Henderson, NV), and the discount is automatically entered.

For more info. on the Amica Race Series, click here.

Happy savings and enjoy the Super Bowl!!!

2012 Oakland Marathon and Half Marathon: $5 off until March 21, 2012 or...

Although the Oakland Marathon or Half Marathon, Oakland, CA isn't for everyone, I'll just put this out there.

Registration event fees have crept up over the years, and a little bit of savings can only help those who run multiple events every year.

Events:  Oakland Marathon or Half Marathon (not sure if code will work on the 5k or Team Relay events)
Events Weekend:  March 24 and 25, 2012


Click here for more info. and/or to get your $5 off code.

I believe the code is valid until March 21, 2012, or whenever the event sells out, if the events do sell out.

Happy savings!!!

2012 Kentucky Derby Marathon and miniMarathon Discount Registration Extended Through February 6, 2012 and 10% Off Code.

Recently, there was a discount code floating around for the Kentucky Derby Marathon and the miniMarathon.  The code was suppose to work, but it didn't.

On top of that, there was also a price increase approaching as well.

Folks have inquired, and the folks behind the Kentucky Marathon and miniMarathon have extended the registration pricing through February 6, 2012.  Half:  $65.  Full:  $80.


Not sure if the following code got extended also, but as of this moment, it is now working:

10% off
Code:  JAN2012KDF
The expiration of the 10% off code is suppose to be on Feb. 16, 2012.  I'd use it on February 15, 2012 or even before that.


For more info. on the 2012 Kentucky Derby Marathon and miniMarathon, click here.

Happy savings!!!

2012 Safari Park Half Marathon: $15 off. Event date: May 6, 2012

From what I gathered on the 2011 Inaugural Safari Park Half Marathon events, some things didn't go off smoothly.  Hopefully, they've worked hard the working out the bugs for 2012.

Here's a nice discount to those of you wanting to go on the 2012 Safari Park Half Marathon:

$15 off the 2012 Safari Park Half Marathon.

No expiration date was listed.

For more info. on the 2012 Safari Park Half Marathon, click here.

Happy savings!!!

Less than 10k to Go to Reach Nike+ Black Level

I am so close to Nike+ Black Level.  I can feel it.

Just 6 miles away.

It's just around the corner...

Pixie Dust vs. Rock 'n' Roll: Who Will Win?

I never saw this coming.  This is going to be an interesting match up for 2013.  It seems the Mouse is going head to head with the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon folks.

Here's the "Save the Date" info from RunDisney:

The 2013 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend is during Martin Luther King Weekend.

 
Meanwhile, in the Valley of the Sun, the 2013 P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon and Half Marathon Weekend is also during Martin Luther King Weekend.

This is going to be an interesting match.


Who Will Win?
My gut feeling is that the participants will come out winning as both events will dilute the finite number of participants, creating less congestion on the course on race day.



Although the website hasn't been updated for the 2013 Tinker Bell Half Marathon weekend just yet, more info. on the 2012 Tinker Bell Half Marathon info. can be found by click here.

For more info. on the 2013 Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon and Half Marathon, click here.

Walked 2.9 Miles. January 31, 2012

Recovery walk of 2.9 miles doing a bunch of errands.

Today is 2 days after the 2012 Inaugural Tinker Bell Half Marathon.  Quads and IT bands are still stiff, but things are going in the right direction.


Guestimate calories burned:  174

Walked 10.43 Miles and Wogged a Half Marathon. January 29, 2012

I had a busy day today.

Walked 10.43 miles and wogged the 2012 Inaugural Tinker Bell Hallf Marathon.

Currently, I am waiting on a few pics.  Hoping to put up a recap of the Tinker Bell Half Marathon within 1 week, after getting those pics.  I am sure many folks are curious about Run Disney's newest half marathon event in Anaheim, CA.

It was a fun-filled weekend.


Guestimate calories burned:  1,653

Walked 8.85 Miles. January 28, 2012

Distances between objects are so misleading and even then, there are not modes of transportation I can take to minimize my walking mileage today.

Walked 8.85 miles

Guesstimate calories burned:  531

Getting Around: Walked 3 Miles. January 25, 2012

It's the day after my 20 mile wog.

This time around, because I used some ice leg wraps on my knees, quads and hamstrings, my legs seemed to have recovered faster than if I hadn't.

For today, walked 3 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:  150

Cramming for a Marathon: 20 Miles. January 24, 2012

I am so behind on my marathon training program.  Given the crazy work load I had over the holidays, I lost my half marathon mileage base to build on top of.

Nevertheless, I am not ready to toss in the towel just yet.

For myself, an ideal marathon training program includes at least 3 or more 20 milers or longer distances.

Today, I finally manage to get in the 1st - 20 miler.  From the looks of things, I might only be able to get in 2 - 20 milers or longer before race day, oppose to my usual 3.  :(


20 miles @ 4:38:47
Net guestimate calories burned:  970  (Yes, 970.  I eat quite a bit along the way.)


I definitely need to bring my gloves.  It was very cold.  My fingers were so cold I had problems opening food packaging along the way, slowing me down quite a bit.

Although there were several ugly miles along the way, I am not ready to give up crossing that finish line on race day.

Lesson Learned: Don't Just Watch the Weather Forecast, Just Head on Out; 5.01 Miles. January 22, 2012

Rain storms going thru my area.

I was monitoring the precipitation off of Weather.com, trying to find a gap between the rainy periods, before heading out for a run.

The hourly forecast kept changing.  First, it would list a low precipiation percentage at a certain hour.  But, when it got to that hour, I can still hear the rain falling outside.  And, refreshing my web browser then would list a higher percentage of precipitation rate.

Eventually, I finally find a gap and headed out.

Before I got a mile in, it started to rain.  Oh, well, so much for watching the weather hoping for a drier run.

Along the way, there was a downed tree blocking the road.

5.01 miles @ 1:02:57
Calories burned:  573


Lesson learned:  Raining or not, save the hours of watching the weather forecast and just head on out.

Kicking off the 2012 New Year: New Year's Day Run 5k. Event date: January 1, 2012

Due to some crazy work hours over the holidays, I knew I had lost my mileage base and considerable amount of fitness going into the New Year's Day Run 5k, so this one will just be a fun run.


Pre-Race, I went volunteering at the T-shirt pick up area.  This delayed my heading to the start of my own race.

After I made use of a nearby restroom, I finally made it the Start.


A First:  Gun Time for a Chip Timed Event
Not sure what happened today, the timing folks weren't thrilled to see me, which is a first.

Although it was a chip timing event, they told me I was too late; I couldn't start when I want to; I would only get gun time; and they had already cleared things for those finishing the event.

Not only that, I was told in to start in front of the barriers they had set up, some distance in front of the timing mat, so I couldn't even time my own event with my own timing device.

Of course, I wasn't thrilled because it's a chip timing event and that I've seen folks start events way later into this organizer's running events and heard none of the issues I had heard today.

I spoke to the event organizer who told me to start normally, and they'll adjust my time afterwards.


After the pre-race hiccups, I made it onto the course.

There were several forks during the first few turns of the event.

Very grateful that one of their volunteers, Marie, who saw me, then briefly ran with me, directing me to the correct race course away from those first few forks in the road, preventing me from getting lost.  Very, very grateful!  Thanks, Marie!!!


The 5k course was pretty much a paved road.  I pulled over a few times to snap a couple of pics.

Very pretty, Lake Chabot.

Folks fishing.

My event T, bib and 2012 New Year's Day bling.

New Year's Day Running Events and Bonus Bling
The New Year's Day events and New Year's Eve events were part of the New Year's running event series.

The New Year's Eve events were held on the morning of December 31, 2011, while the New Year's Day events were held on the morning of January 1, 2012.

Both events featured distances of a half marathon, a 10k and a 5k.

Those completing an event from both days received a middle piece bonus bling. 

I was stuck working and couldn't make it to the New Year's Eve events, so I wasn't able to complete the New Year's running event series.

Here's what the medals of a complete New Year's Eve and Day finisher look like together:

Very nice!

With the hiccups I had before my 5k, I am hoping the rest of 2012 is going to go smoothly.  Here's hoping for a smooth 2012!


BTW, parts of this wasn't intended to be a rant or a complaint over how the chip timing was done for this day, but more as a caution to those volunteering before a chip timed running event.