Tag: marathon

Race Recap: The San Francisco Marathon

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One week post-marathon and it already feels like a lifetime ago.

Many of you already know my proposal story at last year’s The San Francisco Marathon. I couldn’t quite top that this year but I still had a blast. I had the pleasure of being a part of the TSFM Ambassador family and it has become one of my favorite running experiences ever. Being a part of the ambassador team allowed me the opportunity to promote an event that I love, while doing something that I love (running, duh) and meeting a group of inspiring individuals who I love.

Events

  • Full Marathon
  • Half Marathon – First Half
  • Half Marathon – Second Half
  • 5k
  • Ultra

Expo

This expo is fun – I highly recommend going on Friday so that you can take your time, walk around and enjoy yourself. Off the Grid – an event with numerous local food trucks – took place on Friday night as well so you could try out some unique local food. Pro tip: If you think that you’ll run the race the following year, make sure to register at the expo for THE LOWEST price + an additional discount.

Starting Line

Make sure to get to the start line with some time to spare. We had to rush a little but it was easy getting through corrals and getting situated where we needed to be. Some of us ambassadors hung out in the VIP area before the race and it was definitely worth it to be indoors and have a place to sit down.

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Course

The full marathon course is awesome – runners start at the Ferry Building, run through Fisherman’s Wharf, across the Golden Gate Bridge, down through Golden Gate Park and through the city passing AT&T Park on the way to the finish line. On top of the course, I couldn’t ask for better weather to run in. Last year got a bit warm towards the end but the weather stayed in the mid to high-50s this year for most of the race. The big news this year was that the course was changed last minute. The marathon route was moved from the road to the sidewalk on the Golden Gate Bridge and the first half marathon route was moved off of the bridge entirely. While I can’t speak for the half marathoners, the course change ended up being fine for the marathon (I still PR’d!). I was initially worried about the sidewalk being too crowded but it was not an issue at all. In my opinion, the course is fun, engaging and overall really pretty. It may seem like a hilly course but all of the hills are completely manageable. In fact, I remember a lot more of the downhill sections than any of the uphills.

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Takeaways

This race went well for me – even though I came away with a four minute PR, my big win was in pacing and nutrition. I focused on my nutrition the week leading up to the race and my fueling during the race, both really paid off. For pacing, I used a pacing wristband that I picked up from the expo. I initially tried to keep up with the pace groups but I quickly backed off when I found that they were going much faster than the pace. Overall, everything went according to plan and it was definitely the first marathon that I finished with a smile on my face and some energy to spare. I can’t wait for CIM in December and then maybe The San Francisco Marathon again in 2019?!

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Race Recap: 2018 Flying Pig Marathon

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You might not think of Cincinnati when it comes to a destination race but this race needs to be on your bucket list.

Events

Wow, so there are a lot of choices but there is truly something for everyone. I only ran the marathon but see the full list of events below.

  • Full Marathon
  • Half Marathon
  • Relay – Corporate and Open
  • 10k
  • 5k
  • PigAbilities – An option for people of all ages with disabilities, their families and friends who may not wish to participate in a competitive event.
  • Kid’s Marathon – The 26th mile for school-aged children who have completed 25 miles in increments during the months leading up to race weekend.
  • Flying Fur – A dog race?! How awesome is that.
  • Piglet/Diaper Dash – A great event for the young kids!

Expo

This expo was no joke – hands down, one of the best expos that I have been to. While the number of vendors may have seemed overwhelming at times, the convention center had plenty of places to sit and rest your legs when you needed a break. Our group found a couple of couches right in the middle of the expo to hangout and people watch.

Starting Line

FLAMES. There were actually flames at the start line. But in all seriousness, the start line was great in terms of convenience and organization. It was a convenient walk if you were staying in a hotel downtown, which I would highly recommend.

Course

Runners start the race by running across a bridge into Kentucky – pretty cool, two states in one race! Then runners cross two more bridges before they are officially back in Ohio. The crowd support really picks up and stays for the remainder of the race, which was an amazing aspect of this race. There were water stops at every mile along with huge cheer stations for spectators. Some of the cheer stations had bacon and others had hoops where you could stop and shoot a miniature basketball. Aside from the endless entertainment, the actual course was really nice. Most reviews of this race mention the hills but I didn’t find them to be that hard. It definitely is not a flat race but the hills are very do-able.

Things that I would do better

This race was a tough one for me – I finished about 30 minutes slower than my A goal time, 22 minutes slower than my B goal time and 7 minutes slower than my C goal time. I felt confident going into the race but in hindsight, there are some things that I would have done differently. I would probably opt to fly in earlier and avoid taking a red-eye when traveling for a race. And I will definitely practice adjusting to a different time zone next time.

3 Reasons To Run The San Francisco Marathon

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You might recall my review of TSFM 2017 here or on the Represent Running blog. The San Francisco Marathon is one of my favorite races and here are the top three reasons why you will love it too!

Landmarks

The landmarks are breathtaking and worth the early race start. After starting at the Ferry Building, runners race through Fisherman’s Wharf, through the Marina, across the Golden Gate Bridge, back down through Golden Gate Park and finish near AT&T Park. Runners get to experience the whole city in one race regardless of the distance that they choose to run.

Weather

Of course, I have to mention the California weather. Last year was perfect running weather with clear skies and mid-50’s at the start. Be sure to watch for Karl the Fog as you cross the Golden Gate Bridge!Discount Code

Discounts

Need another reason to sign up for this race? Use code AMBASSADORKELLI10 to save $10 when registering for the 5k, half marathon or full marathon distances.

2017 Recap // 2018 Goals

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This past year was crazy to say the least. We moved back across the country to California. Cade proposed at the San Francisco Marathon where I also reached my sub 4 hour marathon goal – did I mention it was the best weekend ever? And then we bought our first home in October!

The past year will definitely be a tough one to beat. I was disappointed to be closing out the year with a small injury but I am excited to starting working on reaching my new goals.

Goals

  • A year without injuries (fingers crossed).
  • Run a 3:50 marathon.
  • Run a 1:50 half marathon.

2018 Races

  • San Jose 408k – March 4th
  • Silicon Valley Half Marathon – April 16th
  • Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon – May 6th
  • Across the Bay 415k – June 10th
  • The SF Marathon (or half) – July 29th
  • East Bay 510k – September TBD
  • Rock n Roll San Jose – October 7th
  • California International Marathon – maybe?

*use discount code REPRESENTKH to save on the San Jose 408k, Across the Bay 415k and East Bay 510k, remote options available.

The Runner’s Holiday Gift Guide

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The holidays are coming and it’s time to start thinking about what to get that special runner in your life. Here are 10 unique gifts for runners that will hopefully make holiday shopping a little less stressful this year!

img_15811. RaceHerBox

Can’t decide on a present to buy? RaceHer Box is a subscription box catered to women runners and their newest holiday box is the perfect gift for a runner this season. The price is $34.99 plus $6 shipping – use code RUNHAPPY10 for 10% off!

milesandpace_tank2. Miles & Pace Tank

This ‘Miles & Pace // Run Because I Can Muscle Tank’ is one of my favorite tanks. The design is awesome and the fabric is super comfortable. Tank top prices range from $19.99 to $24.99. Plus, use code KELLI20 for 20% off!

img_67573. Momentum Jewelry

Everyone needs some extra motivation when it comes to working out. Momentum Jewelry is workout-friendly motivational athletic jewelry and I am a huge fan! Prices can range from $9.99 to $26.99.

4. Run Ink

How awesome is that design that Run Ink sent me after finishing The SF Marathon?! These make awesome gifts and you can even make custom maps. I can’t wait to order more! Prices start at $13.

SIDE_0016_Flamingo-Side-View5. Goodr Sunglasses

Now these sunglasses are the real deal for any runner – I have 3 pairs in different colors! The colors are fun and they definitely stay on your face. Priced at $25.

IMG_00886. Race Registration – Run The Bay Series

My fiancé loves to use this gift and I’m not complaining! I recommend the Represent Running Run The Bay Series – you can run in person or remote. The first race of the series, San Jose 408k is coming up on March 4, 2018 and you can use discount code RepresentKH for 15% off!

 

mparadiseblue_1024x10247. Pro Compression Socks

Every runner could use a new pair of compression socks, especially a special edition holiday sock. Pro tip: keep an eye out for the release as they sell out quickly. Plus you can use discount code PRO17 for 40% off!

milesandpace_hat8. Miles & Pace Trucker Hat

These hats come in a variety of colors and designs so there is a hat perfect for every runner. Prices range from $19.99 to $24.99. Plus, use code KELLI20 for 20% off!

addaday9. +addady Massage Roller

Give a toy this year! This massage roller was a lifesaver when it came to rest and recovery days. Prices range from $42 to $47 depending on the model.

oofos10. OOFOS Sandal

These sandals may look a little chunky but runners rejoice as these are known to reduce stress on sore feet, knees and lower back. In addition, $10 from every Project Pink Collection shoe purchased will go to breast cancer research! Priced at $59.95.

Pre-Race Countdown

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With a little over 72 hours to go until the Berkeley Half Marathon this weekend, it is almost countdown time! These are some of my favorite tips to follow but more importantly, always follow the golden rule: do not try anything new on race day.

Thursday – 72 hours to go!

  • Go for a run but don’t push it too hard by trying to cram in last minute runs.
  • Check the forecast for Sunday, read through the race guide and start to finalize your race day plans.

Friday – 48 hours to go!

  • Choose to take the extra rest if you need it or try for a short, easy effort run.
  • Start adding in small amounts of extra carbs to your meals. For me personally, I also start adding more salt to my meals.
  • Might want to check the forecast for Sunday again, especially if there is a chance for rain. I’m crossing my fingers that Sunday will be dry!
  • Rest up for a good night’s sleep – the nights leading up to the race are crucial!

Saturday – 24 hours to go!

  • Sometimes I prefer the extra rest day and sometimes I prefer a shakeout run the day before a race – up to you!
  • Go for a higher-carb diet today but be careful not to overdo it. The last thing you want is to show up to the start line feeling sluggish and full.
    • Pro tip: Choose foods that have worked in the past, remember nothing new!
  • Avoid spending unnecessary time on your feet, meaning try to avoid spending too much time at the expo.
  • Pack your bag and lay out your outfit, plus any additional items that you need on race day. This will help to cut down the stress and nerves that you might be feeling the next morning.

Sunday – RACE DAY!

  • Eat something small unless you normally run without eating anything – it is not the time to try something new.
  • Arrive early to find parking, chill out and even make a trip to the bathroom before the lines form.
  • Warm up with some jogging and dynamic stretches.
  • Have fun!!!

Also, make sure you check in next week for our Runner Holiday Guide!! (Discounts will be included!)

Running in the Dark – Crazy or Stupid?

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Every morning my alarm goes off at 4:45 am and I know that it is time to go for a run – after all, it wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t get my morning run in! I never used to worry about my early morning runs because I would rarely see anyone else or any cars on the road. Then I joined a running group and heard horror stories about running in the dark without a reflective vest so naturally, I bought one to fit in with all of the other runners. Now flash forward a year to yesterday morning when that running vest saved me from getting hit by a speeding Uber driver. Ok.. maybe that was a bit dramatic considering I also heard and saw the car coming so I easily moved out of the way. However, it did make me feel better to be wearing a reflective vest because I know for a fact that he saw me.

I don’t love running in the dark but here are some my favorite things to remember when I do:

  1. Be aware – I admit, I’m almost too aware. I always get startled by my shadow or sounds from nearby bushes. Better safe than sorry!
  2. Ditch the tunes – To my point above, I wouldn’t be able to be aware if I was distracted. I love listening to music and podcasts during my runs but I save it for when the sun is out.
  3. Lights, lights, lights! – In addition to being seen, I would also advise to run where there is at least SOME light for you to see, even if you have a flashlight. For me, it’s not worth falling and getting injured because I couldn’t see something on the ground.

I love hearing tips and stories from fellow runners, feel free to share!

Re: San Francisco Marry-thon

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Wow! After moving across the country, starting a new job, getting engaged and running another marathon, I’m back!!!!

Let’s  start with the most interesting part – running another marathon. Ha, just kidding but I got engaged at the San Francisco Marathon so it’s kind of the same thing. First, I beat my PR by 15 minutes AND ran a sub-4 hour marathon so I was ecstatic. (I really wasn’t even expecting to PR but the course was amazing). Then… Cade proposed when I finished!

Find out more fun details about my weekend in my blog post for Represent Running and stay tuned for more to come!

Race Review: Not So Normal 3/4 Marathon

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1/4 Marathon? 1/2 Marathon? 3/4 Marathon?!

Yes, you read that right. I ran a 3/4 marathon distance (19.65 miles) as a training run for my marathon – placed 6th Overall, 2nd Gender.


 

What: Not So Normal
When: April 2, 2017
Where: Carrboro, NC
Distance: 3/4 Marathon

The best part about running this race is that it is truly local. That being said, you do get the feeling of being part of a community but you don’t get all of the swag and support that you would get from a large for-profit race. The race also supports amazing local non-profits – Orange County Rape Crisis Center, First Pages and TABLE.

I have had the pleasure of volunteering and running this race for the past two years. While it is small, I definitely recommend checking it out if you’re available and in the area!

BSIM Training Week 8

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Last week was definitely a building week for my training. The miles became longer but my effort was easier.

Monday – Fartlek (4 min, 3 min, 2 min, 1 min) – 8.1 miles!

  • A system of training for distance runners in which the terrain and pace are continually varied to eliminate boredom and enhance psychological aspects of conditioning.

  • Find out more about fartleks here.

Tuesday – Hopped on the treadmill and got in an easy 4 miles.

Wednesday – 5.5 miles outside.

Thursday – 6 miles TEMPO!

  • 2 miles warm up
  • 3 miles tempo pace
  • 1 mile cool down

Friday – rest day.

Saturday – 12 miles long run, 8:53 /mile felt good!