Half Marathon Archives - Glitter and Dust

Eugene Half Marathon Race Report

May 5, 2016 by Kristen 28 Comments

This past weekend I had a true “how on earth did I do that” moment when I crossed the finish line at the Eugene Half Marathon. I was able to do the two things I had set out to accomplish when racing in my first half marathon postpartum: maintain a consistent pace throughout the race, and PR.

Justin, Axel, and I packed up and headed to Eugene late Saturday morning, making sure to time our departure so it would coincide with Axel’s nap. Little man was a trooper and slept the entire 2 ½ hour drive before waking up as we entered Eugene. It was our first out of town overnighter with him since he has been born and he traveled like a champ. I guess wanderlust must be in his blood.

Upon arrival to Eugene, we grabbed a quick bite to eat at the Steelhead Brewery, then headed to the expo for packet pickup. I love how the atmosphere around pickup really gets me fired up and shifts my mind into race mode. Maybe it’s all the nervous tension in the air. I did the obligatory find your name among the list of runners and then picked up my bib number and race shirt.

Unlike many packet pickups that are in exhibition halls, hotels, or even a local running store, this one took place in a big tent adjacent to Hayward Field. It was a pretty casual packet pickup with a jazz band playing on a stage they had set up for the weekend, and people out and about taking pictures and relaxing in the sunshine. Justin and I decided to check out the finish area on the Hayward Field track and figure out a strategy for meeting up after the race. I still can’t believe Steve Prefontaine ran on this very track. I was standing on and soon to be running on a little piece of history.

We checked into our hotel, the Holiday Inn Express, after leaving the expo area. It was the perfect place to stay for the race because it was located half a mile away from the start/finish area and the course passed directly in front of the hotel at mile 10. The mile 10 aid station was literally in the hotel parking lot. This was nice for Justin and Axel because they would have a place to hang out while I was running the first half of the race.

After unloading a massive amount of stuff – seriously, traveling with an 8-month old requires more gear than traveling with six adults – I went on a quick 1.5-mile shakeout run while Justin walked with Axel to Market of Choice to grab a few essentials (i.e., bananas, Gatorade, water). Later that evening we ordered takeout from Placido’s Italian restaurant, and had a nice family dinner of spaghetti and meatballs in the hotel room. We didn’t want to deal with all the crowds at all the restaurants on race-eve, especially with Axel being so unpredictable. I felt rested and relaxed all evening and we went to bed early.

Axel woke us up nice and early at 5am, just before the alarm went off. He’s been an early bird lately, but I guess that’s better than waking us up throughout the night. He actually didn’t make a peep all night despite the unfamiliar surroundings, and he slept soundly for almost 10 hours straight in the Pack-n-Play. We got up and went through the typical race morning routine → coffee (there was a Dutch Bros. in the hotel parking lot), figure out what to wear, banana + peanut butter, bathroom, relax, look at course, gather gear, leave. Justin also gave me a really sweet card that read, “Today is your day.” It came with a temporary tattoo that I felt needed to be worn. Maybe this needs to become permanent after the day I had. ☺

I studied an email I had received from my coach with his thoughts and strategy for my race. It contained information about some of my previous races, along with a predicted time for this race based on my recent 10k pace. He anticipated that I would run the race in a time of 1:36 (7:20 min/mile). He provided me a visual profile of the course, along with advice on how to pace properly at every mile. The goal was to not go out too hard, which I am notorious for doing, and to pace smart.

At 6:30am we left the hotel and walked to the start area, giving me enough time to use the porta potty and kiss my two guys goodbye before the race. It was 48 degrees and there was not a cloud in the sky. Perfect running conditions, in my opinion. I ventured up to Corral A and gathered with all of the runners as the National Anthem started. And then, just like that, we were off!

I must have repeated “not too fast, not too fast” in my mind a hundred times during the first two miles. Nice and easy. I settled into a comfortable pace, found a good rhythm in my breathing, and hit cruise control. Honestly, I had no idea if I was running too hard or not, but I was relaxed and felt good in the moment.

In addition to the fact that they take place in Track Town USA and finish on Hayward Field, the Eugene Marathon and Half Marathon are popular because the courses are extremely fast and flat, with the exception of a few minor “hills” (I use “hills“ because these are nothing like the hills I have to tolerate in Bend). Spectators pretty much lined the entire course and it was an eclectic gathering of people. I came across bands, toga parties, cheerleaders, kids wanting high fives, grannies wearing tutus and a woman offering me a joint. Don’t worry; no marijuana was directly inhaled during this run (indirect contact is another story). I swear spectators alone make me a 10% faster runner.

After 6 miles I glanced at my Garmin and saw my pace. Wow. I had been holding a consistent 7:07 average pace and still felt like I was on cruise control, not slowing at all. When I came up on a hill at mile 9 I slowed a little, but found my groove again once I was up and over. This is also where I ate my GU Roctane. I guess it was time to rock!

I knew Justin and Axel would be waiting for me at mile 10, where the course routes in front of the hotel, so I kept envisioning seeing them and used that as my motivation to push a little harder. I was so happy to finally see them as I zipped on by. This is my waving while running look.

It wasn’t until mile 11 that I started to grasp the reality of how I was running. Still on cruise control, my pace hadn’t slowed at all and I came to the realization that I was going to finish this run strong. I wish I could have pushed a little harder at mile 12, but my shin started cramping and toes started to curl every time I wanted to speed up. It’s amazing how our bodies can sense that we are almost finished. The mind-body connection is fascinating. I tried to ignore the pain and pushed as hard as my body would let me, until I passed through the entrance to Hayward Field and onto the track, just as I had envisioned. As I came to the straightaway and saw the finish, a 1:34 was brightly staring my way. I teared up and charged forward those last 400m before stopping in complete awe and accepting my medal from a volunteer.

My official race time was 1:34:11, almost a 4 minute PR from my best time of 1:38:04 back in 2014. All I could think was, how did that just happen? No. Really. How did I just do that? I couldn’t wait to find Justin and Axel and tell them the good news. I finally tracked them down (they had some issues getting through the road closures) and, gave them a quick and elated race report. It was barely 8:30am when I finished so we made our way back to the hotel, packed everything up and loaded it into the car, and began to make our way back to Bend…just in time for Axel’s late morning nap. ☺

My running has come so far over the years. When I started this journey in Houston during grad school my half marathon pace was somewhere around 9:30 min/mile, which I was proud of at the time and rightfully so. Over the years that time has steadily decreased, and I never could have imagined then that I would be able to maintain a 7:10 min/mile pace for 5k, let alone for an entire half marathon or longer.

Heck, even when Axel was born eight months ago a performance like this seemed so distant and unattainable. The female body is an amazing thing, and is capable of so much. I’m excited to see what I can accomplish going forward – especially when it comes to running off the bike during the last leg of my half- and full Ironman races this summer.

Have a vision. Set goals. Do the work. The rest will fall into place.

Thank you, Eugene <3

My First…And Last Half Marathon of 2015

April 28, 2015 by Kristen 32 Comments

I had zero expectations when I signed up for the inaugural Bend Half Marathon a few months ago. I knew I would be 5 months pregnant and had no idea what my body would look like or how it would respond to running 13.1 miles with a preggo belly. What I did know was that I did not want to miss Bend’s first marathon and half marathon race, as part of the Gorgeous Race Series.

While I have competed in races and events across the country, each of which had its own special appeal to me, running in my hometown is something that I love to do. Waking up in your own bed, going through your familiar routine, seeing friends at the start line, and celebrating with them afterwards in my opinion all combines to create a more comforting atmosphere no matter where you live, but I think it’s particularly so in Bend.

And while this was not my fastest half marathon (about 15 minutes slower than my PR) I was able to meet all of my goals and even surprised myself a little along the way. Let me break it down.

* The race started at 7:30am in downtown Bend. Parking was easy and there was plenty of space to warm up and hang out with family and friends.

* The temperature at the start was perfect (~35 degrees) and there was not a cloud in the sky. A typical Bend day.

* After kissing my husband goodbye we were off, cruising along the first three miles of flat pavement through neighborhoods and alongside the Deschutes River. Who doesn’t want to stampede in the early hours through a bunch of residential areas, shaking the ground, and sparking the curiosity of those still in bed?

* Miles 4-8 were along a wide dirt path paralleling the river once again. One could easily argue that this was the most beautiful section of the course. At least, that’s what I kept hearing from runners around me.

* These miles were also the most technical, with a few steep climbs – enough to get the lungs and legs equally burning. Are we warmed up yet?

* There were aid stations every 2-3 miles, with some of the most amped up and encouraging volunteers I have ever seen. I made it a point to drink lots of water and thank those who were so graciously taking time out of their day.

* I saw my husband at mile 7 and threw him my long sleeve top. It was a very spectator friendly course and Justin was able to ride his bike around to catch me at numerous locations. I saw him at least 6 times and at one point he even rode his bike alongside me from a distance, cheering me on.

* Miles 8 and 9 were two of my favorite, as the course led runners back into downtown Bend, through a half-mile long tunnel of wild, yelling spectators. For me, it was like filling up the tank with gas and feeling completely recharged for the next round of mileage. Spectators truly are a runner’s best friend.

* I got a high five from Lauren Fleshman and Jesse Thomas at mile 9. When the elites take time out of their day to come out and cheer runners on, that is pretty awesome.

* The last 4 miles were the most familiar, as I have run the Old Mill District to Drake Park route countless times while training. This is where I was able to pick up the pace and pass other runners. I have been in both positions before so I know that when you are the runner who is thriving and whisking by other runners who are surviving off fumes, it’s a good feeling.

* The finish area downtown was lined with people. The support from the crowd was beautiful and I saw a lot of familiar faces. Thank you Bend!!! Baby boy and I crossed the finish line with a chip time of 1:53:36.

* When I crossed the finish line one of my friends, Rainie, and her daughter were volunteering and passing out medals. I was elated to see her and excited to receive THE coolest medal I have earned by crossing the finish line. This one is dedicated to the growing life inside me.

* The course was not easy and had roughly 730ft of elevation gain. Thankfully, I had run it enough to know what to expect and how to pace myself. My heart rate stayed fairly consistent throughout.

* The race swag was pretty impressive. We received a fancy long sleeved shirt, Picky Bar, gift card to Jamba Juice, gum, discounts to other local races, a beer token (free beer = poor pregnant Kristen), and a wall mountable beer bottle opener finisher medal.

* My only disappointment was with the food at the finish. They offered bananas and bagels, but nothing else. The bananas were fine but the bagels were sitting out and somewhat dry. It would have been nice to be able to throw some peanut butter on them, or something. I will let it slide this time because it is an inaugural event but hopefully they will add a little more variety next year. And after all, most people in Bend run for the post-race beer anyway. If I had been able to imbibe in that, it might have been a slightly different story.

My three goals for the race were to negative split (most importantly), finish under two hours, and have fun/listen to my body. I am happy to report that I achieved all of these goals and was able to finish feeling fresh and strong. I definitely could have kept going if I wasn’t pregnant.

By the way, negative splits are awesome. I don’t know why I have struggled to run one in my pre-pregnant body, but I can guarantee you that I will be making this a habit more often when I start racing again. There is something mentally invigorating about going faster in those last few miles, picking off people left and right.

What was it like running a half marathon 5 months pregnant?

I don’t know what it is about the race environment, but my body felt great. I became more energized as the race when on and enjoyed myself a majority of the time. Yes, there were moments of fatigue and round ligament pain, but they were short lived and would come and go. Oddly enough, the downhill sections were hardest on my body because of the force and impact.

The baby seems to cooperate when I run races because I didn’t have to stop to use the restroom ONCE. This was incredibly surprising to me. That being said, I went about 10 times before the race, so “things” were empty.

Running a half marathon 5 months pregnant is not easy. The extra weight definitely takes a toll on the body, and the way my body has changed in subtle ways has altered my running mechanics ever so slightly. I can feel and see a difference in my running form.

It was also a little bittersweet as this was my first and likely only half marathon (or longer) distance race in 2015. I am very grateful that I put in the time and effort to complete this event, but it still feels really weird knowing that it will be a year before I start racing these distances again. Perhaps I will throw a 5K or 10K into the mix in the next few months for enjoyment.

Once the race was over I was completely done and needed to get off my feet. It would have been nice to hang around to cheer others on, but my body was noticeably going downhill fast. I was couch bound and horizontal the rest of the day, with a lot of ligament pain around my lower abdomen and groin. I guess that is the sacrifice I make for running that kind of distance. Because of the impact that it had on my body, it is unlikely that I will continue running miles in the double digits – unless they are very slow and I feel up to it.

Final Thoughts on the Inaugural Event

The race organizers really did a great job of laying out a great course and getting the residents of Bend to come out and show support for runners. There is a good chance that I will add this as an annual event to my race calendar to show support for our local running community. Hopefully we will see it grow each year and bring people from all over.

Have you ever run a negative split? How would you compare it to a positive split?

Most memorable finishing medal or race bling you have ever received…

Anyone want to come to Bend next year and run this with me? 🙂

Training* For A Half Marathon {* = While Pregnant}

March 30, 2015 by Kristen 15 Comments

In less than four weeks I will be running my first organized race of the season – the inaugural Bend Half Marathon. Because I will be 20 weeks pregnant when the start gun goes off, I will not be “racing” or trying to PR. Quite the opposite, actually, unless there’s a new category for a Pregnancy PR. For me, this race is all about making the most of my experience being pregnant and continuing to do the things that make me happy. While this race is likely to be slow and steady, I want to do my best, support the local running community and perhaps inspire others who are considering running while pregnant.

I feel like I have learned a lot during these past few months of training with a baby on board, and want to share some of my own personal feelings about running while pregnant and how it changes you as a runner. Though I have struggled from time to time, I have also surprised myself in new and inspiring ways.

Why I am planning to run as late into my pregnancy as possible…

Health and Labor: I want my body to remain as healthy as possible and I want to be able to bounce back quickly once this little guy enters the world. Blood flow and movement are my thing!

There is a lot of research suggesting that exercise and running reduce complications during pregnancy. Dr. James Clapp III, expert and author of “Exercising Through Your Pregnancy,” was one of the first to study the effects of frequent, sustained exercise in competitive runners and athletes during pregnancy. He found that the bodies of pregnant athletes are not only conditioned to handle the physical changes that occur during pregnancy (i.e., increased heart rates, stress on ligaments and muscles, higher body temperatures, reduced levels of oxygen), but that these individuals also had healthier and easier pregnancies when they continued these activities.

For example, a majority of these athletes reported fewer physical aches and discomforts, gained roughly 8 pounds less than those who stopped exercising, and did not endure any increase in injuries or complications. They also had easier, shorter and less complicated labors than those who did not exercise, and recovered faster after giving birth. The other good news? The babies were not adversely affected. If there is any chance of these results rubbing off on me, I’ll take it!

Mood boost and me time: I run to maintain a positive frame of mind. If I need an instant mood booster, I just throw on my shoes and go. Running never fails me. Plus, sometimes you just need a little “me time” and this is my favorite way of enjoying time to myself and with my thoughts.

Body image: As someone who has struggled with body image in the past, I think it’s important for me to continue doing things that make me feel good about myself and my appearance. While I’m definitely not obsessing over weight gain or stretch marks (yet) there is always some worry in the back of my mind of how things will change in the months to come. Running helps remind me that I am strong and healthy, which is ultimately what is important.

Sanity: Truth be told, I would go crazy and probably become very unhappy if I didn’t run and exercise throughout my pregnancy. I rely on endorphins and happy neurotransmitters. Best natural drug out there, right? I like to tell myself that a happy mommy equals a happy baby.

What has changed…

Focus: This has been a great opportunity for me to work on technique. Now that I am running slower and am not worried about logistics and numbers, I am focusing more on form and what my body is doing. From arm movement, to foot strike, I am much more in tune with my body and hope to change some bad habits.

Accessories: My Nathan Hydration Vest has become my very best friend. I used to stuff a GU or two in a pocket and rely on minimal water (the resources that were available along my route) but this just doesn’t cut it when pregnant. Every time I go out for a one hour+ run I wear my hydration vest and fill it with water, food, my phone, and any necessities I might need (i.e., toilet paper → always).

Nutrition: While I still carry Gu or Bloks (sans caffeine), I will also carry and eat more solid foods along my longer runs. The baby needs additional nutrition when I am burning that many calories, and I am always mindful of whether I am eating enough. My favorite mid-run snack during a longer run is a peanut butter and jelly sandwich cut into squares, especially when my husband writes cute love notes on the bag.

Strategies: I have become much more strategic with my running routes, and will either plan a route close to home or drive and park in an area that is central to where I am running. I never know how I am going to feel, so having those amenities close by is a cushion. Early on in my pregnancy I learned the hard way (I had to call my husband for a ride) that getting stuck somewhere far away is frustrating.

Bathrooms: Oh, beautiful, glorious bathrooms. How I need you so. I have found that as I grow larger, the weight of the baby/uterus leads to the urge to go at any given moment. It’s crazy that I used to be able to run an entire marathon without having to pee. Now I can barely get through a few miles without jumping behind a bush. If I’m running around town, I am extra aware of all my bathroom sources. If I am trail running, I carry TP.

Attire: Comfort matters more now than ever. Let’s just say that the girls are growing and the bump is starting to awkwardly show (in a beer gut kind of way). I can’t stress the importance of a good sports bra and comfortable attire. My go to clothing pieces have been my SOAS sports bras, lululemon capris (with light support around my belly), and racerback tanks.

What running means to me now…

Remembering where I come from. As runners, we all start somewhere. I am currently averaging close to the same speed I did when I started running and was training for my first marathon. I was a 9-10 min/miler during my first year of running. To be back where I started is a good reminder of how far I have come in my years of running, and how far I have yet to go in the years ahead.

Baby bonding time. Sometimes when I’m running I find myself talking to the baby, either in my mind or even out loud. I talk to him about Bend, about running, and about the healthy and active lifestyle I hope he will someday lead. My parents were great role models to me when it came to fitness and outdoor recreation, and Justin and I hope that setting a good example both pre and post-birth will rub off on him.

Enjoyment and doing what feels good. No more pushing through hard workouts, pain (the good kind), and maxed out heart rate. From time to time I feel a lot of round ligament pain and cramping sensations, which instantly signals me to slow down or walk. I don’t fight it. There is no reason to start a battle you can’t win.

My doctor also let me know that the increased weight of my uterus can put pressure on a vein that delivers blood from my lower body to my heart, causing dizziness or faintness. This has happened a couple times (particularly on the bike – probably due to position) and I always slow, stop, and take a moment to regain normalcy.

Another symptom I have found myself dealing with at times is shortness of breath. At first I thought I was just losing some fitness, but I soon learned that certain changes in the body are more likely the culprit. First, for some women the growing uterus and baby can actually push against the lungs, decreasing their ability to expand as usual. Another cause of shortness of breath is the elevated levels of the hormone progesterone, which encourages breathing and improves the transfer of gasses/nutrients between mom and baby. While women may feel short of breath, researchers suggest that exercise is actually helping to build a larger and more vascularized placenta, which allows more nutrients to reach the baby and helps protect the baby from oxygen deficiency. This is a great article on all of the changes to expect.

Running has taught me a little humility. While it requires a lot of determination to work hard and get stronger/faster, it also takes courage and discipline to allow yourself to slow down and venture into an unfamiliar place where effort and speed no longer matter. Focusing on the things you can do, as opposed to the things you cannot, has been an important lesson for me.

What has running taught you lately?

Have you ever participated in a race knowing that you were not going to PR or give 100%? How was the experience?

Sunriver Half Marathon – Female Champion

September 1, 2014 by Kristen 63 Comments

Yesterday was a major milestone for me, as it was the first time I have ever earned the title of female champion of a running race – and a half marathon at that! Achieving a PR was a goal I had set for myself going into the race, but the overall win was completely unexpected. So was my second consecutive lucky palindrome race number. And to know that I probably could have pushed a little harder and extended my PR by another minute or so was also reassuring, but I was not feeling 100% and did not want to do anything stupid (aka completely bonk or blow up).

I participated in the Sunriver Half Marathon for a Cause last year, so I knew what to expect on race day. The course is very flat with a couple of gentle hills around miles 7 and 11. One of my favorite things about the race is that it starts at 7:30am. Early and cool. The temperature was a brisk 43 degrees when we started, but warmed quickly once we got out in the sunlight. I felt comfortable the entire race and was reminded of how much I love running in cooler temperatures – even if they mean summer is coming to an end and fall is just around the corner.

The marathoners got a head start and took off at 7:15am, while the half marathoners listened to some upbeat music vibrating through the air, stretched, and took care of last minute “business.” I saw my friend Karly at the starting line and the last thing she said to me before the horn blew was “you are going to win this.” I laughed because I honestly had no expectation of winning. There is ALWAYS someone faster than me.

I immediately positioned myself in the lead with a group of speedy men in front of me. I tried holding back like my coach instructed me to do, but the first mile came and went faster than I had intended. I kept repeating to myself, “slow down, don’t bonk” for the next five miles, which is typically where I have a tendency to go out too fast.

For some reason I was completely out of my race element that morning and forgot my gum, GU, and glide (three critical Gs). My husband was a lifesaver because when I saw him at mile one, I was in a panic and let him know that I did not have my nutrition. Sure enough, when I saw him again at mile six, he handed me my long lost GU Roctane. I would not have made it mentally without any nutrition.

After the first six miles of weaving through Sunriver Resort’s Meadows and Crosswater Golf Courses, and enjoying spectacular views all around, I began catching up to some of the marathoners, which was encouraging. Everyone was so incredibly friendly and cheered my on as I passed by, yelling “first female” and “you’re in the lead.” It kept me smiling and optimistic.

After seeing my husband again at mile six, the path took me through Caldera Springs where I encountered my first little taste of hill territory and enjoyed some shade. I took my GU at mile eight and at about the same time started feeling a little dizzy and cramped in my stomach. This slowed me down a bit, but as soon as my GU kicked in I was feeling much better. At about mile 9.5 the course crosses a beautiful bridge that spans a large man made lake in Caldera Springs, which is where photographer Matt Lasala from Lasala Images snapped this photo of me – freshly energized from my GU. Matt photographs a lot of sporting events in Bend (because just being a Doctor isn’t enough for him, apparently), and I have to say this is one of the best in-race photos I have ever had taken of me. Usually the background is boring, my eyes are closed, there are other racers in the picture, I look like I’m not having fun, etc., etc.

The hardest miles for me mentally during a half marathon are 8, 9 and 10. I usually struggle a lot at this point and then recharge and kick it into gear during the final few miles to the finish. I got to see Justin a lot between miles 8-11, so that really helped keep my mind off of any mental shutdowns I was facing. I honestly don’t know who puts in more work during these races, Justin or myself. He is always running around all over the course making sure I am good and have everything I need, including GU, gum, lip balm, water, and the occasional in-race pep talk. And taking lots of photos for my blog in between.

It was so beautiful running through different areas around Sunriver and the volunteers were absolutely amazing. Because there are so many turns and paths going in multiple directions, more than the usual number of volunteers were placed throughout the course to help direct the runners. I swear it takes an army to put on these races – cheers to them!

I parted ways with Justin one last time around mile 10.5 so he could bike back to the car and get to the finish line. Once I reached mile 11 I had one last “hill” to conquer before it was downhill and flat to the finish. At this point I was still in the lead and decided to pick it up to remain that way. Mile 12 was a blur and as I approached the starting area near the main lodge, I knew I was almost to the finish. I definitely took it all in as I rounded the corner and heard on the loud speaker, “Our first female half marathoner is making her way to the finish line.” I smiled, engaged the crowd, and was across the finish line in a time of 1:38:04. A two-minute PR.

I. COULD. NOT. STOP. SMILING.

So this is what it feels like to win something. Everyone was congratulating me. My husband (I swear his eyes were a little watery) was there to give me a big celebratory hug. It was one of those moments I had never experienced and will never forget.

Another thing I love about this race is that they treat all of the runners to something special at the finish. All runners receive a nice finishing medal, pint glass, long-sleeve Nike Dri-Fit shirt, and can treat themselves to a serious buffet of food and beverage options. I received my free beer (yes, at 9am) and sat in a pair of compression hip shorts, compliments of Renee and Austin at Recharge, which felt amazing.

After walking around and mingling for a bit, it was time for the award ceremony and my podium debut. It felt really good to stand on the top and center for my two seconds of fame (HA!) and I received a certificate for stay at Sunriver Resort for my first place prize. The awards and prizes they offer to athletes at this event always impress me.

Another race in the books and yet another reminder that training and hard work do in fact pay off. This was just the boost I needed as I prepare for the Portland Marathon (four weeks away) and hopefully a finishing time that will qualify me for Boston. Let the final stretch of training begin!

BEHIND EVERY GREAT RUNNER…

March 6, 2014 by Kristen 8 Comments

A few days ago, I asked (maybe urged) my husband to do a guest post for my blog. Justin is the best writer I know, and I sometimes wonder why it is me who has the blog. I told him he could write about anything and he surprised me with something very near and dear to my heart. Sit back and enjoy…

It’s not often that Kristen hands me the keys to Glitter & Dust with the instructions to “take it for a spin.” In fact, this is the first and hopefully not the last time I have been invited to pen my thoughts about whatever subject interests me. Fly-fishing immediately comes to mind. So does marketing. Two topics that are of great interest to me personally, but probably not shared by many others.

So rather than write about something that is of interest only to me, I figured I’d write about something broader. Specifically, my place in Kristen’s training and racing life, and the role I willingly and happily play when it comes encouraging, motivating, and supporting her athletic endeavors and achievements.

I’m certainly not alone in my efforts. Behind every great runner (or just every runner, for that matter) there is a support team that helps make it all happen. Spouses, significant others, loved ones, friends, family, other racers, volunteers, and on, and on, and on, all play a role. But since this is a firsthand account I’ll focus on my role in the process, as just one cog in the wheel, and what I do to help make Kristen’s pre-race, race day, and post-race experiences the best they can be.

Pre-Race
Pre-race support begins weeks if not months ahead of the actual race, and culminates with the pre-race meal the night before the big day. It mainly focuses on the training side of the equation, but has other valuable elements as well, particularly as we get closer to the race. On shorter training runs, I’m happy to tag along if only for the entertainment value I provide. My “running” pace is more of a brisk walk for Kristen, but slow runs are good for her once in a while—even if they aren’t slow by my standards! But for longer runs (15-20 miles), I hop on my mountain bike and ride alongside her for support. I carry extra water, food, and clothing, offer conversation to break up the monotony, and croon an occasional “Eye of the Tiger” on hills to keep her motivated and amused.

Throughout the entire training process, my job is simply to keep Kristen motivated, upbeat, and focused on the positive if any doubts creep into her head. Whether it’s to remind her of the dividends that all the training will pay, keep her focused on the end goal, or to simply compliment her on how well her outfit matches. Whatever it takes, right?

Some friends jokingly nicknamed us Krustin, a la Tomkat or Brangelina.

As we get closer to race day, and the training turns to tapering, my role also changes and begins to focus on the race itself. Depending on the length, location, course conditions, etc., I begin to plan out my own race day strategy. Where will I cheer her on from the course? Will I need to bike from location to location or will I drive? How long will it take her to get from point A to point B to point C to point D, etc.

If it’s a local race, and a course I am familiar with, I might even bust out the sidewalk chalk and poster board to line the course with inspiring messages for Kristen, as well as the other racers. The afternoon or evening before the race, I’ll sneak out to the office to make some signs, then drive to a few spots on the course to put them up and write some encouraging words. I remember after one race hearing a woman who had seen all of the signs and chalk along the course say something like, “Who the heck is racer #343 anyway?” I gave myself a pat on the back after hearing that one. ☺

No race is complete without one of Kristen’s favorite pastimes, Packet Pickup. Whether it’s the surprises that await in the goodie bag, the vendors at the pre-race expo, or the nervous anticipation building inside all the racers, there’s something about packet pickup that flips a switch in Kristen and hones her focus for the race. It’s fun to watch her go from being excited and energetic, to being quiet and reserved. The calm before the storm.

If she’s racing on an unfamiliar course, such as the Seattle Marathon, we’ll do a preview of the entire course following packet pickup. In Seattle, we drove the vast majority of the course, then ran a six-mile stretch that included their version of “heartbreak hill.” Hopefully it helped come race day, knowing where the opportunities were to step on the gas, where it was wise to let off the gas, and where there was risk of running out of gas!

The last, and perhaps the most important of my pre-race responsibilities is the pre-race meal. Making sure Kristen’s body has the fuel it is going to need for the day is a challenge that we have found the perfect solution to: Dungeness Crab. How great is it when your pre-race meal just so happens to consist of your favorite. Food. Ever. The stats don’t lie on Dungeness Crab: high in protein (19g per serving), very high in electrolytes (particularly sodium, potassium and magnesium), and extremely high in vitamin B12 (energy booster). It’s also low in calories and fat. I oven roast the crab with a seasoning of salt, pepper, shallots, thyme, and parsley, and coat it with a reduction of those ingredients plus blood orange juice and peel. The result, I think, is one of the tastiest meals I have ever had, and one that gives Kristen a definite “leg up” (Crabs have 10 of them, after all) on race day.

Race Day
For most runners, race day starts early and the same is true in the Yax household. A pre-dawn wake-up call is followed almost immediately by a cup of coffee to literally and figuratively gets things going. While Kristen is putting in her race braids, I’ll make myself busy with a number of tasks including once again playing “Eye of the Tiger,” the Rocky theme song, or Katy Perry’s “Roar” through the iPad, gathering food, nutrition, clothing, and gear, and adding one more bit of motivation.

I usually try to have a good luck card and some sort of trinket for Kristen when she comes downstairs, in part to lighten the mood and in part to remind her that I’m proud of her accomplishments. The race, after all, is the destination of a much longer journey. It’s the celebration of months and months of incremental daily accomplishments, and when the race ends the journey still continues. Besides, what could be luckier than a banana card on race day morning?

While Kristen is eating her pre-race peanut butter and banana, I make sure I have everything I’m going to need for the day’s support efforts. Mountain bike, helmet, shoes, and gloves? Check. Backpack? Check. Camera? Check. Lots of extra clothes, gum, food, water, gloves, hats, flip flops, lip balm, etc., etc., etc.? Double check!!!

I’ll need all of that gear, and sometimes more, as I make my way around the course throughout the race. Whether as a place to stash layers that are peeled off right before the gun goes off, or to hold additional clothing in the event of rain/snow/hail/wind/sun or all of the above, it’s good to be prepared and I have learned that you never know when you’re going to have to fulfill the occasional “if only I brought a…” request. When in doubt, I try to pack with the motto, “it’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it!”

Once the gun goes off, I’m left at the starting line, backpack in tow, ready to pedal like crazy to get to the first viewpoint in time to set the bike down, get the camera ready, and to try to anticipate any needs/requests that might come when I see her. Usually, the first time I see Kristen on the course is captured on film with some article of clothing being tossed at me as she attempts to cool down.

Then it’s back on the bike, hustle to the next location, cheer and photograph some more, give her fresh gum and a pat on the butt, and tell her how great she’s doing. That process gets repeated several times over the next 90 minutes to four hours, depending on the race and Kristen’s frame of mind. Generally speaking, I try to be in at least two and as many as five locations along the way to cheer. If she’s not feeling well or is having an off day, I’ll run with her for a bit and give her a little “pep talk” along the way. Or, if she’s in a really bad mood I’ll say or do something to intentionally make her mad. It’s my way of giving her a taste of her own medicine—a little reverse psychology on the psychology instructor—and the one time I used it, it really seemed to work. You should see how fast she is capable of running when she’s pissed off! ☺

The tricky part about cheering and spectating throughout the race is to make sure you leave yourself enough time after the last stop to get to the finish area, find parking, and get to the finish line in time to see your athlete finish. So far, I haven’t missed one of Kristen’s finishes yet (knock on wood) but I have come dangerously close. Particularly at the Sunriver 1/2 Marathon and the Seattle Marathon, where parking proved to be more difficult than I had anticipated and left me with a finish line sprint of my own in order to get there in time.

Post Race
Watching Kristen sprint through the finishing chute is always fun, as there is a huge sense of elation—and sometimes relief—on her part for completing the event. That sense of elation is usually followed closely by the typical “That was the hardest thing I’ve done in my life!” and “Why do I do this?” comments, which are in turn followed by the “I can’t wait to do this race again next year!” comment.

After Kristen cools down and changes clothes, one of my last jobs is to keep an eye on the results being posted and to keep her company while waiting for the awards ceremony. I try to keep tabs of her position within the race as it unfolds on the course, but usually don’t get it right so it’s a wait-and-see affair after the race. Kristen has been fortunate to have some great finishes over the years, and I’ve been proud to be there to see and to photograph her receiving various medals, mugs, plaques, and ribbons.

And from this point, the journey begins anew with planning and preparation for the next big race. It’s a great big cycle that doesn’t really have a beginning or an end, it just kind of chugs along in perpetuity. But along the way, it has its triumphs and tragedies, highs and lows, good days and bad days, and its successes and failures. We learn a lot about ourselves from how we handle both (fortunately the successes tend to far outweigh the failures), but often it is the failures that motivate us the most. From my perspective, as Kristen’s #1 cheerleader, fan, and supporter, there is no such thing failure—there are only varying degrees of success.

Happy Dirty Girls Half Marathon

November 3, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Yesterday I completed my 7th race of 2013 at the Happy Dirty Girls Half Marathon in Sisters, Oregon. A fairly new trail run organized by Lay it Out Events, this event is primarily catered to women, featuring girlie goodies at packet pickup, male pacers dressed in sparkling skirts, and girl power music blasting at the finish line. Although there were a couple of kinks to work out, I found this to be an enjoyable run and well organized experience.

I picked up my race packet at Footzone on Thursday, which was a nice alternative to driving out to Sisters on Friday. There were all kinds of goodies in the packet bag including a shirt I will actually wear (super comfy), socks, coupons to local shops, a rope of licorice, snacks, and my race number. Packet pickup always gets me fired up!

On Saturday morning I went through my typical race day routine. Because the weather looked a little uncertain, I had a harder time figuring out how to dress and layer. I settled on tights and two long sleeve shirts, which I would later regret. Given that the weather was supposed to hover around 40 degrees, potentially spit rain, and bring strong winds, I didn’t want to risk being a frozen icicle. Once again, Justin proved to be a huge support giving me a good luck card, driving me out to the starting line, and waiting in the rain for me at the finish.

As this was a point-to-point course, the start of the course was a few miles up the scenic Three Creeks Lake Road. Runners could take one of several shuttles from the finish area to the start line, or get a ride from family/friends. Justin dropped me off in time to use the porta potty, get in a good stretch, and line up near the front of the first wave. At 9am, under a blue sky and warm sun, we were off!

After a speedy first two miles, I quickly became uncomfortably warm in my double layers, and shed my outer shirt upon arrival at the first aid station. I was glad that the race organizers were able to collect gear and bring it to the finish area after – a lot of runners took advantage of this!

There was quite a bit of uphill between miles 2.5 and 7, with the occasional quick downhill to rest the lungs. The views were some of the best I have seen on a course and at one point a large rainbow fell from the sky in the far distance toward the Cascade Mountains. About an hour into the run the wind started to pick up, bringing with it the clouds and rain. It would be a wet finish!

The event organizers did a really nice job marking the course with neon flags and directional arrows, however may not have taken into account how the weather would affect them. Justin walked the last 1.5 miles of the course backwards from the start early on, and repositioned a few directional markers that had been blown over from the wind. There were a few places along the course where this had happened, including near the finish were the first runner to finish ran past the turn because the sign had fallen over, leaving it pointed in the wrong direction.

Nonetheless, I would have been lost for days if it weren’t for the countless flags marking the course.

The mile markers were also another “hit” in my book. Each marker was well positioned and displayed an inspirational quote to keep runners motivated along the way. I really enjoyed reading them along the way.

If I could have changed one thing about my own personal run, I would have elected to use my iPod and listen to music. I found myself alone for a majority of the run and was only in close proximity to other runners at the beginning and a few times throughout. Because this was not a spectator friendly course, there were no cheers or people along the way to give me that extra push. However, at mile 12, I was greeted with a message written in the dirt from my husband “I heart 178,” which made me smile and kept me going.

The last few miles were cold and wet. The rain really started coming down and the wind added to the sting. By the time I reached the home stretch to the finish line, the pavement was covered in water and my grey shirt had turned black and heavy, soaked with water.

I crossed the finish line with a time of 1:40:41, my second best half marathon to date. I was happy to be welcomed with a finisher belt buckle and a few compliments from a couple women who had finished before me.

Justin and I immediately went to the car so I could change into warm, dry clothes. We then proceeded back to the finishing area where we talked with friends, supported other runners coming in, and awaited the posting of results. I enjoyed the Knotty Blonde from Three Creeks Brewery and we both shared a little pumpkin and squash soup.

Once the results were posted we ventured over to see that I had finished first in my age group and seventh overall. We waited around for the awards ceremony, but it was a little unorganized and they informed us that they had misplaced the awards and would send them via mail. Um, okay…

All in all it was a pretty great event and one that I would likely consider doing again in the future. And now, onward toward the Seattle Marathon on December 1!

A Tough, TOUGH, Half Marathon

October 21, 2013 by Kristen 2 Comments

On Saturday I made a last minute decision to register for Super Dave’s Down & Dirty Half Marathon – a trail run that I was told climbs “gradually” for the first seven miles before descending through rolling single-track to the finish. I needed to get in the 13 miles (including some hills) for training, so I thought “why not?”

*The weather is perfect.
*I need to get in speed training.
*I have never done this particular race.
*The hill climbing will be a great challenge.
*I’ve done every other half marathon in Bend this year.
*I have to do 13 miles anyway.
*And, I love the race environment

Heck, I managed to convince myself is less than 5 seconds. Plus, Justin was completely supportive and even gave me a little nudge.

The race started at 9am – roughly 42 degrees and not a cloud in the sky! I started near the front with my step-brother-in-law, Stephen, to get out first and avoid bumping heels and toes with other runners.

My pace the first two miles was fairly fast due to the combination of adrenaline and trying to get the blood flowing to warm my body. After three miles of gradual incline I made my way to the first aid station where I refueled and settled into a more steady, comfortable pace to manage the four miles of hills ahead. Miles 3-7 felt endless as I would look ahead and see runners much higher and more distant cruising along the switchbacks and road. The first seven miles were primarily uphill, approximately 900ft of climbing, along a forest service road, which was nice for passing and feet placement options.

Once I reached the aid station at mile 7 my legs were on fire, my head a little light, and my mouth dry. I grabbed a drink and searched for Justin who was planning to meet me there but was nowhere to be found. Onward! Now it was time to jump on the Storm King trail and head for the finish – only 6.2 miles to go!

At mile 8 a voice undulated through the trees and I heard “Go Kristen!” My husband appeared from a distance through the pine trees. Ahhh, thank goodness! I quickly stripped my long sleeve shirt and gloves and threw them his way. I was hot and the weather had warmed to my shorts/tank comfort level. After a quick “I love you” I was off, up the hill, and in search of the finish.

The terrain between miles 8 and 12 was mostly downhill and zigzagged along a single-track trail. At this point my legs were feeling a little defeated from the previous miles, thus I did not get to take advantage of the downhill like I had wanted to. At mile 12.5 I approached a disgusting hill that made me about quit right there (not really), but once I reached the top I quickly resumed my race pace and followed the sound of the crowd at the finish line. In the eyes of a runner one of the most beautiful sights in the world is that finish line area. I sprinted across the grass to the finish line, was handed an awesome mug (big enough to hold my morning coffee), and found my husband and family. I was thrilled to be done.

I finished in a time of 1:48 → 9th woman to cross, 34th overall

Stephen, on the other hand, wasn’t as fortunate. He was misdirected off course by a volunteer early in the race and along with a few other poor souls ran down the wrong trail for three miles before realizing the error of their ways. That six-mile round-trip error ended up turning Stephen’s half marathon into a long, 18-mile training run. Poor guy, but being an ultra runner this wasn’t the first time (or even the farthest) he has veered off course during a race.

This was the most difficult half marathon I have ever participated in, and I had not mentally prepared myself all of the hills and climbs. At the end of the day I am certainly glad I did it. The challenge was good for me, and the training will only make me stronger for what lies ahead—the Seattle Marathon on December 1.

I love that my family was there and that my husband once again proved to be an amazing support. He definitely keeps me going, gives me the encouragement I need, and helps me to stay positive when I have doubts. I couldn’t do this alone!

A PR in Sunriver

September 2, 2013 by Kristen 4 Comments

Yesterday I completed my 5th half marathon of the summer, setting a PR for the 13.1-mile distance in the process. I waited until the last minute to sign up for the Sunriver Half Marathon For a Cause, as a way to test myself after the training I had done throughout the summer. My goal going into the run was to finish under 1:40:00 – which I successfully did.

Saturday was packet pickup at the Sunriver Resort Lodge. As always I was delighted to receive a goody bag and race t-shirt. As part of the event weekend there were a couple of other runs going on while Justin and I were there, so it got me pumped and excited for my run the next day.

That night, Justin made my favorite pre-race meal—oven roasted Dungeness crab. There’s something about crab that I swear makes me run faster. It’s high in potassium, magnesium, and sodium, three essential electrolytes that are important for performance. After dinner we relaxed and watched some episodes of 24 on Netflix, before heading to bed with a few nerves and anticipation of the day ahead.

Sunday morning I woke up early and went through my usual morning routine. Coffee. Braids. G2. Gear up. Jump around. Nerves. Peanut butter and banana. Hug the hubby. Jump around more. I also have a list of essentials that I gather and take with me to each race.

My mom and step-dad followed Justin and I to the race area and we arrived with just enough time to get their bikes ready so they could cheer me on from different places along the course, make a stop at the porta potty, and get me to the starting line.

I love that anticipation and energy that everyone has as the countdown begins. Ready… Set… “BOOM!”

The course itself was very beautiful and fairly flat. A majority of the run is along a paved trail through Crosswater golf course, Caldera Springs, and Sunriver. The weather that morning → perfect!

The first few miles were a breeze. I instantly fell into a position where I was behind one woman and a handful of men. I knew there were a couple of other women close behind and kept that in mind throughout the race.

When I reached mile six I was greeted by my family (aka best cheer squad ever) who rode along the road that was close to the running trail. They were very positive and encouraging, even when I was starting to ache and have doubts. Their uplifting words kept me going strong.

I honestly cannot describe what I think about during my time out on the course. Although I typically train with my iPod and good music, my races are kept quiet and I prefer the natural sounds of my feet on the pavement, cheers from the spectators, and encouragement from other runners around me. It is a time for me to think, listen, and learn about my body’s capabilities and strengths. Those moments free of distractions are some of my favorites, as they can be challenging in and of themselves.

At mile 8 ½ I consumed my GU and knew I still had quite a way before reaching the finish line. After a few motivating words from my husband to fire me up (“Eye of the Tiger” and “Beast Mode” to name a few), I quickly made it through a couple of good hill climbs and started to push myself hard, keeping a comfortable distance between myself and the woman behind me.

When I reached the sign declaring “Mile 12” I knew I had to pick up the intensity and pace. “Only one more mile – you can go hard for one more mile” played on repeat over and over in my head. And go hard I did – pushing forward until mile 13 when I kicked my legs into sprint mode and flew through the finish line. I saw Justin, my mom, and Billy waiting for me as I heard my name over the loud speaker, “Kristen Yax, Bend, Oregon, 2nd overall woman.” YES!! I finished with a time of 1:39:53.

Final Pace Per Mile

It does not matter how exhausted my body may be, once I cross that finish line it gives me a sense of vigor and renewal. I was overwhelmed and energized, ready to run it all over again.

To kill time before the awards, I grabbed a cold beverage, chatted with some friends, and relaxed at a picnic table watching other runners finish. I loved the finishing medals and pint glass we received. The individuals who put on the race really know how to spoil their runners.

The awards ceremony was a little unorganized, but I was able to meet and talk with the other two women who placed, and stand on the podium for a photo. Sunriver Resort awarded us each a generous gift card and finishing mug – super excited for a little staycation with my husband.

Following the race, Justin treated me to one of my favorite post race meals – a juicy burger! Craving protein, Justin and I went to the Deschutes Brewery and each had an elk burger, which really hit the spot.

The rest of the day was spent in high spirits while relaxing. I spent a good amount of time on the ground, sliding my legs over a foam roller – that good kind of pain that lets you know your muscles have worked hard. It will probably be a day and experience I will never forget – hopefully it is only the beginning.

Up, Up, Up… Haulin Aspen

August 12, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

It has been a few weeks since I have participated in any races or events, so I was happy about my decision to register for the Haulin Aspen half marathon. I immediately experienced a rush of adrenaline and excitement at packet pick-up on Saturday. Runner’s high and pre-race butterflies are two of my favorite feelings and remind me of how important this sport is to me.

A six o’clock alarm began my race day morning ritual, consisting of coffee (1^st thing), a banana and peanut butter, G2, and braided hair. Coffee is key when trying to relieve the “digestive tract jitters” as I call them. Once the butterflies and nerves started to intensify, it was off to the race.

Last year I ran this race and found it to be quite challenging. This year the course was changed to a new route to accommodate a larger number of runners, Forest Service regulations, and transportation issues. I was curious to see how the change would affect the route elevation and number of tough hill climbs – boy, was I in for a surprise.

The race started at 8am on Sunday near Ruff Wear and Summit High School. Justin (AKA best cheerleader EVER) brought his mountain bike in order to ride around and cheer me on at various places along the course. Seriously, how lucky am I?

With the sun shining and a cool breeze in the air, the runners gathered and listened for the horn. Ready, set, go – we were off! The first three miles were quite uneventful as everyone settled into their pace and the road quickly turned into a double, then single-track trail. The terrain looked quite familiar as I have mountain biked these trails a number of times.

After three miles of gradual uphill, the trail flattened out and runners began weaving through trees and branches (not the best experience for the 6’4” man running behind me).

At mile five, the trail took a steep drop and we began to descend quickly into a canyon-like area. After a quick stop at the Pac-Man themed aid station (I am the Pac-Man champ!), it was on to the ugly, torturing hill that slowly takes runners up and out of the canyon. Once that dreadfully long climb is over, it’s quite all right to give yourself a pat or two on the back. You might even pat your neighbor’s back while you’re at it.

Trekking on, the next two miles were easy and FAST dropping gradually into Shevlin Park. This was my favorite part of the run because of the thick trees and shrubs surrounding both sides of the trail – it was beautiful and tranquil.

I had a different mentality coming up out of Shevlin Park. Roughly nine miles into the run, the ascent was truly a hike, up steep and rocky terrain. Once out of the park, I was back on gradual climbs, still surrounded by other runners who kept me going strong. After all that work, I did NOT want to be the person to fall behind.

Thank goodness for all of the volunteers who generously take time out of their weekend to hand a bunch of sweaty, panting runners water and Gatorade while offering encouraging words. These races could not happen without them. Water??? Yes, please. Thank you!!!

The last three miles were mentally and physically rough as my body was worn from the earlier hills and climbs. Justin met me along the way and cheered me on – “Beast Mode” – whatever you say hubby. Needless to say, it helped.

The home stretch to the finish line was an unexpected uphill that extended much longer than my legs would have liked. I felt as though I was in a desert chasing after a distant oasis. I pushed on and experienced one last burst of energy as I heard the crowds of people and saw my family near the finish. Five, four, three, two, one, finished!

I love the feeling of accomplishment and the atmosphere after a race. Everyone is smiling, music playing, plenty of food and drinks being served, massages, vendors, and families and friends roaming about.

Once results were posted I was ecstatic to see that I finished 2^nd in my age group and 7^th overall women. All that training sure does pay off.

Justin, my mom, and Billy hung around for the awards. Hooray for the red ribbon.

After chatting with friends and having a bite to eat, we headed home in search of a warm shower and comfy cozies. Another great race under my belt! If you like hills and a challenge, this is the race for you.

Dirty Half Marathon

June 9, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Three years ago I told myself I would never run the Dirty Half Marathon again, but I obviously lost an argument with myself when I signed up. Healthier and stronger, I decided to give it another try. The race was two weeks after completing the Happy Girls, so I felt confident and ready to release the legs.

The race started with a cloudless sky and sunshine. I was in the first wave, taking off at the BOOM of the gun.

The race is called the Dirty Half for a reason as a significant portion of the route is on dusty, rocky, single-track trails. Basically, you follow the person in front of you (remember lining up in Kindergarten?) while breathing in and wearing their dust. Sexy, I know. Not only is the trail a dirt bowl, the first seven miles consists of a gradual climb Up Up Up.

The challenge of the elevation (3,700-4,100ft), endless line of traffic (you have to hurdle the sage brush or round a tree in order to pass), and rocky terrain (you look away from the ground for a moment you are toast) make this race what it is – and that is awesome!

As you make the final ascent (yes, uphill) to the finish line, the screaming fans, bells, horns, and entertainment (music, booths, beer garden, etc.) make it all worthwhile.

I finished in 1:49 – about 15 minutes faster than three years prior. That is why I run.

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