2013 Chicago Marathon; A First Time Marathoner's Perspective

Known to the world as simply the BF, I have been invited to write a guest blog.  I had to run a marathon to earn that privilege.  And they said running a marathon changes your life...clearly.

Why run a marathon? Why Chicago?

I have run several half marathons interspersed with rest periods that typically lasted four years.  The challenge of the marathon was something I thought about for a long time but never got around to doing one.  I got back off the couch in fall of 2011 and ran two half Mary’s in fall of 2012. Running Skirts n Swag wanted to run the Half Mary of our local race this fall. Since I have run it three times, it made sense to support her.  Look at how great of a BF I was: (http://runningskirtsandswag.blogspot.com/2013/09/2013-fox-cities-half-marathon.html) 
Hence, I looked for another race to run.

We both love to visit Chicago, from the different neighborhoods, to the food, to the museums, to the shopping, it’s a fun place to visit.  We visit annually as it is about a three and a half hour drive for us. Reading other bloggers who said millions of spectators come out, this seemed like the right place to run a marathon.  That way, it would be more of an event than simply running a race.

Ambivalent if I could really run that far, I made the decision to register a few days  before registration opened.  With Active.com completely failing at the task they were hired to do, it became a competition of us vs. the website.  Both of us were using a laptop and all the idevices we owned to get through.  We got through before the website closed for the day.  YES! VICTORY! I WILL NOT BE DENIED!.... Um, what did I just win?

What did I win for trying to register with multiple devices? Three payments to the Chicago Marathon? How about this three times: Active.com you suck, Active.com you suck, Active.com you suck

My fall Half Mary times got me into the back corral of the first wave.  I booked the hotel.  I was ready. Now I just had to train.

Why Hanson?

I chose the Hanson Marathon Method, which I downloaded from the Kindle Store. They had three main points that drew my attention:

1.  Run high weekly miles six days a week and your long run is only a small percent of weekly miles, which tops out at 16 miles.

2.  If you want to be a better runner, then run and not focus on cross training
3.  Although there is some cutting back at the end, this taper does not cut back as aggressively as others.  They will have a speed run 10 days before the race.

Okay, this doesn’t quite do them justice.  You can get the book here: http://www.amazon.com/Hansons-Marathon-Method-Renegade-Fastest/dp/1934030856

For me, 1) I liked the idea of running regularly and not destroying myself in long runs.  A 20 miler in August sounds miserable. 2) Frankly, I have always hated cross training.  I have a recumbent bike in my basement.  It feels like sitting in a lawn chair as I can easily pedal and read.  I just enjoy running more 3) the more I can run in the taper, the less crazy I’d be.

I don’t do well with taking things on faith so I googled reviews on this method. Surprisingly, anyone I read from reviewer to blogger who ran using Hanson all described feeling adequately trained. Even my friendly neighborhood shoe store guy endorsed this method, but none were first time marathoners.

When I told others who have trained in the 20 mile long run camp, I got a lot of smiles, nods, and “well, good luck.”

I elected not to tell my mother that I was doing Hanson vs. a 20 mile long run plan

Of course the book has all sorts of physiological explanations of why this works, which I don’t understand care to understand.  I just skipped it and read the training schedule.

Did I really follow the training schedule?

In the past, I typically have a very scripted training schedule that starts to fall apart after the third day because I want to sleep in.  Given my fear and awe of a marathon, I followed this one as close as I could.  With my fall Halfs at a 9:09 pace, Hanson told me to train for a full in 9:30 min/miles. I had the base mileage in Spring and was able to jump to the full plan with speed runs in July.

I only took three days off due to a bronchial cold which was three weeks before the marathon and I ended up cutting some of the strength interval training short due to time constraints.  Through it, I felt myself getting stronger.  The easy runs were really feeling pedestrian and I did not destroy myself in the tempo and long runs.  My last 16 miler was after the cold and I struggled through that one.  I will have to say near the end, I was reaching my saturation point of running six days a week and looking forward to getting this over.

The taper

Now I can see why people run a 20 miler.  In the midst of the taper, I realized, I STILL HAVE TO RUN ANOTHER 10 MILES MORE THAN I EVER HAVE?  I read a Runner’s World article advising me to not go crazy in the taper by picking up a new hobby, so I resorted to watching weather reports for race day several times a day.  Wondering if there would be a lightning storm on race morning didn’t seem to help.  Fortunately, the weather cleared.

I really needed a better taper hobby

Terrified I was not ready, I was scaling back my ambitions, now I decided to try running a 9:40 with a negative split would be more realistic.  A 9:30 would only happen if all the stars aligned. My biggest fear was a bonk.  I’ve bonked a couple half Marys and the idea of training for nine months to end up staggering down the street all stiff like Frankenstein for the final six miles was unappealing.

The Expo

Briefly, my experience was like most expos I attend: I pick up my bib, spend a lot of money, and sample food I would never consume in any other circumstance.  This expo was a little more special since you could take your picture next to a Nike poster with your name on it and we could legally graffiti too.

Getting ready to write 100 times, “At my next expo, I will not eat 18 free protein bars.”

Running Skirts and Swag will argue the expo is important.  She can tell you about it here http://runningskirtsandswag.blogspot.com/2013/10/2013-chicago-marathon-spectators.html.

The Race

I had the alarm set for 5:15 and it went off to Darth Vader’s “Imperial March.”  It was time to run.  In the elevator down, only two other runners joined us, we left the hotel and started the walk from Michigan Avenue to Grant Park.  We slowly joined other small crowds of people which swelled into a mass of hundreds by the time we crossed the river.  Kind of a neat feeling to be walking.

Unknowing what security would be like, I entered the security check point more than an hour early. Without a gear bag, it was easy to get through.

Perfect race conditions, start in the upper 40s. I drank my one cup of coffee and one water, as I always do.  Unfortunately, I had to pee a couple minutes after getting in the corral. Maybe I was cold.  Maybe I was nervous, but my bladder was sore when I started.

The walk to Grant Park. I’m feeling relaxed, feeling confident.  Thanks for ruining it, bladder.

Once the horn sounded, it was a 10 minute walk to the start line in my corral.  It was neat to see the many volunteers along side right before the start line.  Nice to be sent off  like that and be able to wave them a “thank you” before running.

We were off.  No spectators at the beginning.  We went under an overpass, where I saw a line of people men relieving themselves against a wall.  Not to incriminate myself on violating city ordinances, but being under the overpass with a slight delay, the GPS on my Garmin crapped out on me.  I hoped it would recover once out, but unless I was really running 7:00 min/miles, it was struggling to figure out where I was.  Great, I’m gonna have to run this on how I feel and I have 41 km to go.  I’m gonna bonk.  I’m screwed.

Once outside of the overpass, the crowds started and never really ended.  I’d say the second half doesn’t have as many spectators, particularly between miles 23 and 25, but for the most part the streets were lined with people.  In downtown, four rows deep.  The crowd was loud, they gave high fives, they played music.  There is no way to explain it.  This city really supports this race.

To have so many people involved, I was surprised how smooth this event was.  The course was full, but it never felt crowded. I anticipated bottlenecks at the water stations, but this did not happen until closer to mile 22 when there was more walking through the water stops. The initial water stops were several blocks long.  All were very well run and it was nice they followed a consistent pattern: toilets, medical, vaseline, gatorade, water.  Most of the volunteers would offer me encouraging words as they handed me a cup.  Most of the time, the fluids were filled at the right level so I didn’t have to run, drink, and spill a full cup of warm lime gatorade all over me like in most races.

As a runner it is so stimulating.  There is no way one can read all the signs along the course.  The miles flew by fast.  I hate trying to calculating splits in my head, but I did at six miles and estimated I was running 9:40.  If I slowed down a little and stayed consistent, I could reach my goal.

Back through downtown, I crossed the first half in 2:04:44.  This was much faster than planned: 9:31.  I was worried of the bonk now and slowed to try to postpone it. I couldn’t do the math in my head anymore and the miles still felt easy.

Crossing 16, I was now in new territory, but I was feeling good and in a groove.  Running Skirts n Swag was able to see me at five points along the race including at 16.5 where I saw her taking a picture of me on her phone.  I stopped to ask how my pace was.  Unaware I wasn’t using my Garmin, she said all in one word, “You’re-doing-awesome,- you’re-running-a-negative-split-and-you’re-beating-Samwise-Gamgee!” in reference to the actor Sean Astin running the race.  So not only could I bonk, but now I could have a hobbit pass me as well.  Hopefully that happens when Marathon Foto takes my picture so I can have a picture of me next to a celebrity.

The look of panic at 16.5 knowing I could bonk and be passed by nasty hobbitses

She gave me a kiss and I was back to the race. I was still feeling good and the time seemed to be going by fast.

After about 21 miles, I could start to feel some fatigue and started counting down the miles now.  Onto the long straight way on 23, I took it up a gear, and eventually caught up to the 4:10 pace group.  I was really going to run a 9:30 pace marathon.  I think that excitement pushed me through the last mile.

Look at how strong I look at the finish. Thumb up and all. Oh Marathon Foto, don’t worry, I’ll purchase this photo from one of your weekly emails you’ll send me in the next five years.

My second half was 2:03:11 including a smooch break with a pretty lady.  A negative split!  I finished  with a 9:28 pace in 4:07:55, but next time I talk about this, I will just round my time down and tell others in a real casual tone “I think I ran it in 4:07 something.”

The finisher’s chute was also well organized.  Walking now showed me just how trashed my quads were.  I liked how they gave a box of recovery food.  Nice not to have to pick through a buffet.  It took 30 to 45 minutes to get food, medal, photos taken, and out. I shuffled into the post race party to find Running Skirts and Swag, but we did not stay.

Of course, visiting Chicago would not be complete without pictures in front of the cloud gate.

I took this selfy.  I didn’t realize an iphone could feel so heavy

Drinking the Hanson kool aid Gatorade

Everyone has a plan that works for them.  Clearly this plan worked for me.  They promised not only to get me to the finish line but to get me to the finish line feeling strong.  I really felt strong throughout the race and at the end.  Taking into account this course is known to be fast and flat and I ran under ideal weather, I exceeded their prediction of a 9:30 pace. During training, I generally felt good.  As a first time marathoner, I confess I started to lose my mind during the taper wondering if I could make the last 10 miles.

Would I ever run another the Chicago Marathon again?

Absolutely.  I was impressed with how organized it was and this city really supports it.  There were many volunteers to help run it smoothly and the ongoing crowd support was incredible.  It’s hard to plan another race now after a race like this.  Guessing that registration will be tougher in 2014, I am very grateful I had a chance to experience the Chicago Marathon as my first marathon.

The next day at the Art Institute.  You think your quads are sore? Quit mocking me and find me an elevator that goes down.

2013 Chicago Marathon: A Spectator's Perspective

The Final Countdown

Not long after he registered for the race, The BF started a countdown clock on his laptop.  Periodically, throughout the past six months or so, he would show me (or text a photo) of the countdown clock.  He's cute.

The weekend finally arrived.  We each got out of work a little early, and loaded up the car for our 3-ish hour trip.  Our first night, we stayed outside of Chicago, near the Botanical Gardens.  It was a nice place, but really who cares about that?  The next morning, we checked out and hauled butt to the downtown hotel to drop bags.

Expo Day!

If you've read any of my blogs, you know what I say about expos... "Expos are important!"  In fact, for my first half marathon, I wrote a whole separate post about the expo.  Read it here: http://runningskirtsandswag.blogspot.com/2013/03/2013-rock-n-roll-usa-marathon-12-expo.html

Well, needless to say, I was pretty pumped about an expo for a major marathon!  What kind of girlfriend would I be if I didn't support my man through the ENTIRE weekend?  Of course I need to be by his side as he ventures through his expo!  :)

I won't go all crazy about the intense details about this expo, other than to do my usual lists.

  Pros:

1. The shuttles to the expo rocked.  There were several places to catch one, and it was a quick ride.  They took us through this little system of roads and tunnels that were apparently just for buses.  What a smooth deal.  I would highly recommend this option, verses driving or something. 
2. Super organized check-in system.  There was a two-step process, by which the first booth let the second booth know we were coming.  By the time we walked the short distance to the second booth, they had all the BF's stuff out and ready for him.
3. There were security steps in place to make you feel safe, but not overwhelmed or scared.
4. Free stuff!  There was a decent amount of free stuff being passed out- including wine!  Yay!


5. There were fun little places to graffiti or sign.  Sure, it would probably be torn down and destroyed before the race even started, but it was fun to feel a part of it. 
6. The Nike stuff was fun.  Not a huge variety in their expensive gear, but fun interactive stuff (see photos below).

Selfie from the Shuttle



We got there early, so it wasn't very crowded yet- but still very electric with excitement.

Nike's "#ownchicago" graffiti wall.  We signed just left of the hashtag.

The BF signed first.  Awww.

My addition was a no-brainer.  :)

This was maybe the coolest part of the expo.  You scan your bib, and Nike puts your name into one of their phrases.  Sure, it's a plug for their social media, but it's still way cool.  He did totally own Chicago, too.  :)

 

Cons:

1. It got crowded.  We got there early (9:30am or so), and when we left a couple hours later, the lines were significantly longer.  I don't imagine there's a way to avoid that with this number of people.  Do what you can to get there early if you go.
2. McCormick Center got warm.  Maybe it was just me, but I don't think so.  Again, I'm gad we were there before it got really crowded.
3. After you check in and get your bib, you then go later to the back of the hall for your goody bag and shirt. When you got to the back, there was a big sign labeling it.  Unfortunately, you couldn't see it until you were back there.  We had to ask someone with a bag where to go.  We were also asked the same question later when The BF had his bag.  Asking for directions is perfectly fine, but signs work nicer.  Obviously, there aren't many cons for the expo, if these are the things I'm listing.  :)



Race Eve

With the expo officially explored, we had an afternoon to do a few things in the city.  We got some Munchkin souvenirs from the Lego and American Girl stores, and got lunch at Geno's. 

Before we knew it, time had flown and were ready to get The BF some carbs and settle in for the evening.  We had Mexican food, as is now both of our traditions.  It's our tradition, but it is also smart not to try getting Italian food in a city full of 45k marathoners.  duh.

Spectator Stress

Here's where I started wigging.  We were settled in to the hotel, and I sat down with my maps.  I had my "Spectator Guide" along with this cool map deal Bank of America gave me at the expo.  I told the gal my guy's starting corral and estimated pace, and she wrote in the times I could expect to see him at their recommended "cheering zones."  This was very sweet!  They figured in the fact that he would not be starting exactly at 7:30am, and calculated very close to correctly (the BF ended up faster than he'd planned).

While that was nice, much like the suggested directions for taking the L, these instructions were incomplete.  For example, they said take the blue train to one place.  Then they tell you to take the red train to the next.  (I may have the colors reversed, but you get my point).  That's lovely, but they neglect to tell you that sometimes those trains require you transferring to get to them.  They also neglect to tell you which direction train to take.

Now, let it be known I have a great sense of direction.  I knew when I needed to go North, South, etc.  However, I had to study to know that when I was going to head North, I needed to take the train to Kimball.  South, I should take toward the Loop.  These are incredibly important details, that had me a bit stressed out as I made my little notes for my spectating adventure.  The BF was ironically trying to calm me about the big day, and not vice versa.  In the end, I got it figured out and went hesitantly confidently into race day with sheets of notes in hand.

Like having 2-3 maps of the train routes wasn't enough, I had to take a photo with my phone as well- just in case!

Listen Up, Race Directors

In all this work  stress fun of being a spectator, I came up with what I think is a genius idea (if I do say so myself).

How about they establish "Cheer Leaders" [clever title, right?  I just came up with that.  (patting on my own back) ] to help spectators along?  I get it can be difficult for all the different paces of all the different runners, but what about the ones on pace teams?

So it could look something like this: If your runner is going with the 4:30 pacing team, you could sign up to follow a 4:30 Cheer Leader around town.  He/she could help you hop all the right trains in all the right directions to catch your stud BF runner at various places along the route.

Added bonus: you have a big group of people helping you get your runner's attention.  That can be a huge help, as I learned around mile 25 3/4.  I started hollering the BF's name, waving my sign, and the little group of spectators around me all started yelling for him as well.  The BF said if not for the numerous voices, he'd never have heard me and seen me bouncing up and down with my sign.

Anyway, I'm sure this would make for a decent amount of work and coordination for race directors and such, but I'm making sense, right?  This would be a very cool way to experience the race of a loved one. 

 

Work Race Day Morning

We woke on race morning to any number of alarms we set.  The BF's was the most noteworthy.  See his guest post (coming very soon) for details.  I had set my phone, as well as my fitbit's silent alarm.  There was no chance of over sleeping.

After I kicked the butt politely confronted the punk young man getting what had to be 20 gallons of ice from the maker just outside our door, The BF and I both got a good night's sleep.  We were off in no time, walking to the start line.  Again, I'll direct you to The BF's post for more details.  I'm sticking to the spectator's experience.

With all of the security measures in place, I had to say goodbye to my man very early.  I totally get that they have to do it this way, but of course it's sad.  You want to see the start.  You want to see the finish.  But what can you do?  I have so much respect for the men and women who kept this city safe on race weekend.  I put my trust in them to keep me safe, so I can certainly give them the respect they deserve and follow their directions.  But I got choked up when I had to say goodbye to The BF.



Selfie before I got a little weepy

off he disappeared into the crowd :(

And We're Off!

My official start began right after I watched my man wander off to his corral.  Long before The BF had started, I was on my way to see him at the first planned location.  He had suggested I go to the overpass on Randolph.  I believe he said I could try and watch with the "mass of humanity" there.  So, off I went.  There were already a number of people there, at least 45 minutes before gun time, but I found a spot behind a couple and beside a TV reporter.

I snagged one quick photo, before police officers came and cleared us all out.  "This is not a viewing area this year.  Please leave.  NOW!  Thank you for coming.  No press!  You need to leave this area immediately.  NOW!"

It was odd.  With as clear as everything was in telling people about the security measures that would be in place, they forgot to mention this overpass was off limits?  Really?  Not even to the media?  Hmm...

Again, I have total respect for the security, so I left as they requested.  I heard people complaining, "I get they need to be safe, but geez.  The overpass?"

Um, yeah, the overpass.  Makes sense to me.  And if you get they need to be safe, then get the heck out when they ask.

Anyway, there was something about the tone in the officer's voice that startled me.  He was urgent, but kept thanking us for coming and things... to keep us calm?  I don't know.  Makes me wonder if there was some unforeseen threat or concern.

Miles 1 and 3 and Jim and Janet

After being sent away from my Randolph overpass, I wasn't sure what to do with myself.  I had a TON of time before I needed to be at my first planned stop around mile 3.  I decided to make the best of the time and scope out all the trains.  I knew I was going to have to figure out the transfer deal between the red line subway and the other elevated lines.

I walked West.  On my way to La Salle Street, I saw where the runners would be coming down State Street.  Not ever having a problem walking up to strangers and starting a conversation, I started talking with a nice gentleman holding a sign.  It turned out Jim and his lovely wife Janet were waiting to see their daughter Becky run her second Chicago Marathon with World Vision.

They were super helpful by sharing their strategy with me.  They explained that they were not taking the advice of CTA and hauling off on a train to mile 3.5.  By staying on the West side of State Street, I could see my guy around mile 1 (by channel 7 and the Chicago Theatre) and then head just a few blocks West to see him again around mile 3 on LaSalle.  Sweet!  

We chatted a while before getting a little bit separated by other spectators.  What a fun spot to see all the people starting the race.  The wheelchair racers, blind people with guides, and then the elites.  Very cool!

I didn't catch a photo of The BF at this spot, because I was busy hollering and waving my sign.  I knew he didn't expect to see me here, so I was thrilled when I got his attention.  Yay!

I hurried off to catch him at the next spot, and I regret I didn't pop over to say goodbye to Jim and Janet.  I hope they had a great day.  They sure made mine more special.  :)

Not sure he saw my clever sign about running faster than a Hobbit (Sean Astin was also running, and started in the same corral as the BF), I held it up again at my position on LaSalle.  After that, it was off for my first adventure on the train!

Mile Ten, With a Side of Breakfast Guilt

I rocked the trains.  I'm so dang proud of myself.  Off I went as planned, and before I knew it I was in Old Town.

Old Town is sweet, but there is not a ton of room for spectators.  The sidewalks are more narrow than in other places, and I assume that's why they had more fencing along the streets.

I ended up arriving with plenty of time.  I went quite a ways away from my planned spectator spot in order to find an open area to cheer.  I ended up immediately before the water stop.  

I had planned to try and find a Starbucks near here for a potty break and coffee and scone.  I desperately needed a bathroom.  I had some animal crackers packed, so food wasn't the main priority.  Unfortunately, all I found for "fast" was a Dunkin' Donuts with a line about 40-people long out the door.  Um, no thanks.  

So, I went back to my location by the water stop and looked around.  I found this little cafe (Greek, I think- I forget the name) and stumbled through the entryway.  I was hoping to pee, grab something to eat, and leave.  Unfortunately, this was not that type of place.  I was greeted by a nice man preparing to hand me a menu and seat me. 

I politely asked for something very quick to eat.  He directed me back to the bar, where he said Joe could help me out.  I asked what was quick and yummy.  Joe said everything would be quick at the time (they weren't very busy), and he preferred the Spinach Pie.  Sold.  I also ordered a coffee, and snuck off to the ladies' room.

Not long after I sat back down and cream and splenda'd my coffee, a yummy spinach treat was before me.

Joe was smart, and knew to put my coffee right into a travel cup. :)

I had plenty of time to actually enjoy this little breakfast, but I felt weird about it.  Here I sat with a yummy coffee and slightly greasy meal, and my BF was all healthy, running the first ten of twenty-six miles.  I felt a little like a lazy bum.  The least I could do was hurry it up and get back out there to cheer him on. 

Quite a while later, I managed to snap a photo of my man running.  Unfortunately, in my excitement, I hit the wrong button on the phone.  I had to try again and only caught the back of him.  I was sad to find out later that what I thought was him acknowledging me was apparently him pointing to the water people.  Still, I was there.  Here's my proof:

I saw him, even if he didn't see me.

While waiting for him in this location, I saw a number of spectators trying to cross the race path.  For reals?!?  They were very clear in saying you could not cross the pass, nor pop in to run alongside runners, or anything else that could be seen as as security threat.  And yet, several people in this place felt it was ok to make themselves a character in a real-life game of frogger.  Dumb.

Glad for Running Gear at Mile 16.5

Back to the train, and on my way to my next spot.  The train was full of athletic supporters.  Everyone was chatting with strangers.  

What is your runner's pace?  Where are you going next?  Have you been to this marathon before?  Can you imagine being able to run 26.2 miles?

Race spectators are a special group of people.  Everyone was cheery and talkative.  So my kind of people.  :)

As I checked my watch leaving the train at Halsted, I realized this was why I wore my running gear.  I was cutting it close, and I didn't want to risk missing him.  I ran through a park, and snagged a spot to watch for him.  I wasn't there 5-10 minutes before I saw him.  At this point, I'd finally got some updates from the race app (the app is awesome, highly recommend), so I was prepared to cheer him on with his stats.

He tells this part best in his guest blog, so I won't bother giving details.

Off I went to hurry to mile 20!

A Spectator's Sadness

I really wanted to see him at mile 20.  Having trained with the Hanson method, he'd never run more miles in one day than 16.  He looked incredible at mile 16, but I wanted to be there for him at mile 20- just in case.

Unfortunately, that's quite a trip via train.  As the Orange line pulled into the station, passing over the runners, I saw The BF rounding the corner.  As my son would say, "sad face!"

my view of the race from the train.  BF long gone :(

I missed him.  That was him.  His red shirt, white hat, and knee brace.  No chance of getting off the train through the dense crowd, down to the race, and still see him.  He was already gone.  I confirmed my suspicions by asking some spectators on the platform what their runner's pace was.  She was on track for a 4:00 marathon, and they'd already seen her and walked back to the train.  Yep, my man was gone.

All I could do now was get right back on the Orange line and head back into town.  

Finish!

Having plenty of time before he got to mile 25.75, I walked and walked in search of a spot to squeeze through and watch for him.  I found a place where I was third or fourth deep into the crowd.  Fortunately, I am tall.

Again, I spoke with strangers around me.  We compared experiences, and shared times and progress of our runners.  As I had hoped, those that had slower runners were cool about letting me step in front of them to watch for my guy.  As I mentioned before, when I saw him and started shouting for him, the people around me all joined in.  Hooray for The BF!  He saw me.  I was so glad.

After he passed by, I made good use of my running shoes again.  I ran through crowds and Grant Park, and asked numerous security people along the way to direct me to the runner reuniting area.  I wanted to get to him as fast as I could, as I had the bag of things he might need.  Also, I could very clearly remember standing all alone at my designated letter at the Rock and Roll Marathon, waiting.

I beat him to the meeting spot, and started to worry quite a bit.  Finally, he arrived.  He greeted me with a huge hug and kiss.  I could go crazy sappy here about my joy in that greeting, but I will spare you... except to say I really love this man.

I can't stand the pride I have for him and this major accomplishment.  His guest post will tell you about it from his perspective, but here are some fun photos from mine:

I love this guy.

Down the road, I think I'll post the specifics of my spectator route (trains, stops, etc.).  For now, I'll stop here.  This turned out longer than I expected, and I have so much more I'd love to share.  Thank you for reading this far.  :)

See The Bf's guest blog- from the runner's perspective here:http://runningskirtsandswag.blogspot.com/2013/10/2013-chicago-marathon-first-time.html

Have you done some serious spectating, too?

Thank you for reading.

2013 Fox Cities Half Marathon

First Things First

The Expo!

As always, I was very excited for the expo.  Silly as it may be, they're a lot of fun for me.  I love the excitement.  I love being part of the energy. 

The BF and I hit the expo late Saturday morning.  We followed it with driving the route to the finish line.  It was a nice expo.  My highlight was running into (or more like poking her and introducing myself) Jess of Run With Jess!  www.runwithjess.com  She's just as smiley and sweet in person as you would assume from reading her blog and Facebook posts. 

"Expos Are Important!"
 

I was so excited to have my name on my bib.  :)

 

 

Here's the swag.  I was particularly happy that they let me choose the color of my backpack.

So here's the list:

 

Expo/Swag Pros:

1) Meeting Jess of RunWithJess

2) The expo was held at UW-Fox Valley this year.  Much better venue.

3) Ample parking.

4) No long lines to check the chip or get goodies.

5) Much better bag than I got last year for the 5k.

6) Great Event Guide.

7) Lots of awesome volunteers.

8) Everyone was really excited about the Extreme Makeover guy being there.  That's cool and all, if you watch TV.  I don't, so it was a little lost on me.

 

Expo/Swag Cons:

1) I thought it felt on the small size.  Maybe I'm snooty since the Rock N Roll Half.

2) There didn't seem to be many bargains.

3) No print-outs were given of the photo booth photos.  Instead, (if I understood correctly), they are going to post ALL of them on their website for all the world to see.  They suggest you tag yourself in them.  Ok, but while the photographer lady was very nice, it would take a pro to get photos nice enough for everyone  me to be very comfortable having them posted for all to see.  Nonetheless, I posed.  I'm that kind of girl, I guess.  :)

4) No free stuff to speak of, other than what came in the goodie bag.

5) The bag, as with any race, had a lot of paper flyers I'll be recycling.

 

 

As I said before, the BF and I then drove the race route.  That is one of those good thing/bad things.  It's nice to know what you're getting into, but it also lets you know what you've gotten yourself into.  SCARY! 

The BF took this photo after we finished driving the 13.1 route from the expo.  If only I could look this relaxed at all finish lines.  :)

Side Note

 

Right next to the finish line is the Bergstrom Mahler Museum.  www.bergstrom-mahlermuseum.com  It's this unique little museum of mostly paper weights.  That sounds a little odd, I know, but I've been there several times and have always enjoyed it.  It's worth a stop, if you get the chance.

 

Anyway, I got an email from the race about a week or two in advance, letting me know that Bergstrom Mahler was having a class that let you make a medal from glass.  It was the Saturday before the race, and you could go the next week to pick it up.  The Munchkins and I went to the class and LOVED IT!  It turns out they do a lot of these little classes on Saturdays, and they just chose to theme this one for the race.  SO FUN!

 

 

 

So, after driving the route, the BF and I popped in to pick up the medals.  The Munchkins and I were all thrilled with the results.  Here is the one I made:

 

Before Firing

After

I really hope they do this event/class again next year.  If they do, be sure and go!  You'll be glad you did.  :)

Race Day Finally Arrived!



The BF and I picked up my friend SD on the way to the race.  We work together, and have become great friends over the past several months.  This was her first half marathon, and we have been comparing notes for months.  It was so fun to head to the big race together. 

 

SD and I posed for a pre-race photo.  For the record, we did not intentionally coordinate our colors.  :)

 

 

 

The day after the race, a very good friend of mine underwent a pretty intense surgery to remove some tumors.  I thought about her throughout the race, drawing strength to go on when thinking about how simple a half marathon is compared to her ongoing fight.  The race encourages runners to make these little "back bibs" and I've not done it before.  This time, it seemed very appropriate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before we knew it, it was race time.  SD and I split up (we had different goal times), and I got one last smooch from the BF.  I headed off toward the 2:30 pacer sign.  My plan was to stay near them at the beginning, in order to prevent going out too fast.

 

Unfortunately, I was running blind on race day.  Ok, maybe not blind, but definitely without my glasses.  I'm not completely lost without my glasses/contacts, but I'm definitely at a disadvantage.  This was particularly apparent when the pacers put their signs down on the ground before I got a chance to get close enough to see them.  I knew they had the pace time bibs on their backs, but I couldn't see them anywhere.  Wah wah wah. :(

 

At that point, I told myself, "Self, you're on your own.  You can do this."  Don't worry, I didn't say it out loud.  :)

 

 

 

Run!

Heading East at the beginning of the race was wicked bright.  Even with my shades, I couldn't see much at all.  It was blinding, but there was something cool about starting a day running into the sunrise.  I started off nice and slow, even without the help of the pacers.  In fact, I started almost a little too slowly.

 

In time, I noticed a gal dressed all in red.  As I got closer, I saw the 2:30 pacer bib on her back.  When I realized this spunky, energetic gal not only had my goal time pinned to her back, but she was WEARING A SKIRT (respect), I knew it was destiny.  I kicked up my pace to catch up to her and her little group, and settled in behind them.  I eventually noticed that she had a partner (also in a skirt- more respect), and about a dozen runners sticking with them.

 

At first, I wasn't sure if I would stay with the group, but it didn't take long before I realized this was right where I belonged.  It was a nice little crowd of cheery women and one quiet guy.  After a few miles, Lori and Katie (pacer gals in skirts) realized I was the newest member of their group, and cheered me right along with the team.

 

 

My Take on Pacing Groups

 

I was very hesitant to commit to a pacer group.  I don't know exactly why.  It made sense to me.  I knew it would probably help me meet my goal.  I just was afraid of the commitment, I guess.

 

I see it completely different now.  Not long after I globbed onto the group, I saw the BF cheering me on (as he did numerous times throughout the route).  I said, "Check it out!  The pacer gal has a skirt!"  (grin)   One of the next times I saw him, I pointed to my leaders and told him, "that's my PR, right there."  I knew I had it.  I knew they'd get me there.  I knew I would stick with them until the end, even if they never said another word to encourage me.  Staying close enough to those red-shirted 2:30 pacer gals meant I would achieve my goal. 

 

There's no doubt in my mind that I will actually commit and sign up for a pacing group in a future race.  I'm sure it's not for everyone, but it is clearly right for me.  I grabbed both those gals after the finish, and forced them in a photo with me.  I was so grateful for their help and support.  Thank you, Katie and Lori!

 

 

 

Miles Ticked By

 

We kept a pretty steady pace, as you would assume a pacing group would.  I felt a little sluggish around the 9-mile gu stop, but I'm still not sure why.  It almost felt like everyone else kicked it up a bit, and it was a little above my pace.  As a result, I was a little bit behind the crowd and inside myself as we ran through Jefferson Park and past the water.  That worked out, now that I think of it.  It was a nice check-in for me. 

 

Not half a mile later, I was right tight with the group again, and before you know it we saw a sign that read "2.7 miles to go!"  No problem!  That's not even a 5k!  Whoop dee doo!  I got this!

 

Up and over two bridges, and finally the left turn on Wisconsin Avenue (Neenah) for the swell of the crowd.  The BF was right.  That's kind of a tough part.  That's when you see all the runners who have already finished.  They're walking past you, heading to their cars, wearing their finisher shirts and medals, silently taunting you.  "We're all done, and you're not.  You're almost done, but doesn't it feel like forever yet?"

 

Ok, no one said that.  In fact, there was a pretty steady stream of fans for the last couple miles.  But, man, aren't those the hardest?  This route's last mile is probably its most beautiful.  You run along a road that runs between some of the city's most beautiful homes and the shore of Lake Winnebago.

 

Beautiful as it was, I dragged.  It was clear I was running out of gas (understandably), as were the rest of the (remaining) 2:30 group runners.  We all spread out quite a bit, and the leaders really poured on the encouragement.  I hit my "power song" on the Nike+ app, and dug in.  I was slow, but steady.

 

Around the curve, you can hear the crowd again.  Those with good vision could also see the finish line.  I turned down the volume on my ear buds, and listened to the crowd.  I heard an announcer say he saw a pacer car.  "The first marathoner is coming in to the finish line!"  (crowd cheers).

 

Aw, dang.  Fine.  I'll get over.  I veered right, in order to make room.  I could hear the car, but I didn't want to turn around to see it and risk falling.  Apparently I totally wigged out the race volunteers.  They were gesticulating WILDLY, trying to get me to veer left.  Gee Whiz, already.  Let me just finish off to the side.  Sheesh.

 

Then I got it.  I got close enough to see they were holding their fancy little ribbon up for the marathon dude on the right side of the chute.  They had this narrow little spot to the left of it where they were hollering for the lowly half marathoners to pass through.  My bad.  I followed direction, and headed left.  I really should have tried to see if I had a pair of contacts stashed somewhere and worn them for this race.

 

At this point, the crowd was really worked up.  I had thought I had nothing left for a sprint, but the chaos of this marathoner coming in, combined with the crowd hollering, gave me just what I needed.  I found energy out of nowhere and kicked it up for a strong finish.  Running Diva Mom always says to smile at the finish, so I took her advice.  I smiled AND threw my hands up for victory!  Goal achieved!  PR!!!

Check out the video of my strong finish!  The local paper was so thoughtful to capture it and post it on their web site.  The crowd went wild for me!!

wait... were they cheering for the marathon winner?  Nah, it was totally for me.  ;)

 

http://www.postcrescent.com/videonetwork/2685035575001/Fox-Cities-Marathon-winner-Mike-Heling

 

Success... or not?

 

The BF was at the finish with his camera and a smooch.  I got my photo with the pacer gals, and the Cherry Coke Zero I asked the BF to bring.  (I totally crave soda after a long run.  I'm sure it's horrible, but whatever.)  Add in a really cool medal (love, love, love the ribbon) and my finisher shirt... pure joy!  I wandered through the chute, got some snacks, and met the BF at our spot.

 

We walked around a bit, saw SD finish strong (she rocks), and went to the results tent.  I strolled on up, pointed to my bib number, and asked the young lady for my results.  She looked me up, confirmed my first name, and handed me a paper with results.  I looked at it, paused, and asked, "um, can you look that up again, please?  That's not right."

 

She had written my bib number wrong, and the time was about four minutes slower that my watch AND Nike+ had told me I should have.  She looked again, assured me it was right (and that she just accidentally wrote the bib number wrong), and explained to me the difference between gun and chip times.  Um, thank you, young lady, but I know the difference between gun and chip time.  I also know that my chip time should be significantly different from the gun time, as I started IN CORRAL C!!!  For crying out loud.  To be fair, I believe she did say it wasn't the official time, and it wasn't her fault, of course.

 

Anyway, I was short but polite with the girl, and crumpled the little paper into my pocket.  I sulked back to the car with the BF.  Obviously, I was not in the mood to have my medal engraved with my time.  I knew it wasn't the end of the world.  I knew it was only about a four minute difference.  I knew it was still a PR, but I was still a little bummed.
 

 

 

My goal was 2:30!  I stayed with the 2:30 pacer gals, with whom I had complete trust.  I sprinted ahead of them at the end.  I actually remembered to stop my watch and Nike+ immediately after I crossed the finish line (I usually forget), and both devices said I was 2:28 and change.  I just wanted to make my goal.  I worked hard for my goal.

 

Fortunately, a few hours later, when the official results were posted on the web, I got my time! 

2:28:36

 

Vindication.  Success.  Accomplishment!  Yeah!

 

 

World's Greatest BF

 

Now's the time where I mush.  You are warned. 

 

I'm really very fortunate.  My man not only insisted all the meals and plans and everything were whatever I wanted for what he insisted was "my weekend", but he was the best fan a girl could ask for.

 

He was there.  He was at the start.  He was at miles 3ish, 4ish, 6ish, 9ish, 12, and 13.1.  He held up signs at some places, and took photos at others.  He always had words of encouragement and a big smile.  I can't begin to describe how awesome that was.

 

The first poster I saw him holding was a large version of my RSNS avatar.  How cool is that?  Much like my man, that poster's a major keeper!

 

Another poster said, "Running is a pain in the butt, but you sure have a cute butt!"  (He's a funny one.)

Another one read, "Tomorrow you can be sore or sorry.  Choose now."

Needless to say, I flashed that guy some grins, some "I love you's" and he even got a mid-run smooch.  (awww)

I couldn't have done it without him.  I was still a little sad not to have my munchkins there.  It was a "dad" weekend, and he doesn't take them to any of my events (my choir concerts, races, etc.).  The BF nonetheless made me feel very loved and special.  It's easier to believe in myself when I know how he believes in me.  (I told you it was mushy.)

He's my boyfriend, my best friend, and clearly my biggest fan.

 

Thank you, BF!

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Poor SD was forced (by me) to pose for this photo while she was munching an apple.  I just had to get a post-race photo of us together.  Patience has never been something I have much of.  :)

 

 

 

(my apologies for the format of this crazy blog post.  Something is up with blogger tonight, and the formatting keeps making errors.  Thank you for hanging in there with me.  I've almost thrown the laptop numerous times.)

 

 

Almost done... The Final List

 

Community First Fox Cities (Theda Care Orthapedic Half Marathon)

 Pros:

1) Plenty of volunteers, fans, music, etc.

2) Plenty of water, Gatorade, gu, etc.

3) Overall, just extremely well organized.  You're getting the idea, right?

4) Great medal.  Well, the medal was ok, but I loved the ribbon it hung from.  Great inspirational words and phrases.  Just great.

 

 

5) Nice simple finisher t-shirt design.  Not tons of advertisements.

6) Perfect weather (though I thank Mother Nature for that)

7) Some kick butt pacer leader ladies (thank you to Pace Setters)

 

 

Cons:

1) Bummer about the results tent thing.  I'm so thankful they fixed it for the official posting, though.

2) The finisher shirts were sized small.  I know I'm no twig, but I am not so big that a 2xl women's fit should make me feel so self conscious.  Sadly, I'm not sure I'll ever wear it again.  :(

3) Simmer down in the chute.  Of course I know better than to run through the marathon winner's fancy ribbon.  :)

 

 

 

 

Alright, that's enough for tonight.  I can't handle anymore blogger/BlogSpot glitches, and anyway this is way too long as it is, right?

 

Thank you for reading!