New Year’s Running Goals

03 Jan 2014 2 Comments

by Lori in Competitive Running, Marathons, Running Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

imageWow! It’s already January 3! And I just couldn’t let another day go by without sharing my goals for this year.

For most of us, New Year resolutions give us an opportunity to begin afresh, dream big, have a meaningful purpose and/or do something we’ve always wanted to do.  There’s something about a new year that gives us guts and passion, fire and determination and everything else that is needed to make us feel that we can conquer the world.  Never mind that midway during the year one would be hard-pressed to find that well of positivity, but hey let’s not get ahead of ourselves and be content to run, no pun intended, with all we feel.  For this reason, among many others, I think setting goals are important while doing our best to fulfill them; reviewing and revising as life circumstances permit.

With that in mind, my running goals and it’s affiliates for this year include:
. Running the Miami Marathon
. Qualifying for the Boston Marathon 2015
. Doing a Mud Run in Summer
. Exploring new running territories in the NY area and Expanding my running base
. Running at least two other out-of-state marathons, hopefully one to include the Chicago Marathon
. Running a PR of 1:30 in a half marathon
. Logging my mileage

I think I’ll stop here.  Oftentimes, I’ve fallen into the trap of having too many goals, which can be either unrealistic or too constraining.  This year I’ve decided to set wisely and save myself a lot of stress by making them achievable and time-bound.

Cheers to 2014 & fulfilling Running Goals!

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Reflections of a Runnerholic

30 Dec 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Marathons, Running Tags: , , , , ,

image“Run out the old, ring in the new;” should be my chant as we stand on the threshold of the eve of 2014.  But I just don’t know, I mean, I’m looking forward to the new year and everything but there’s just something about 2013 that I’m not yet ready to give up and see gone.   The more I think about it, I realize that it’s my dreams, the goals that remain unrealized and cooped up in a corner of my mind – those that never found wings – that causes me pause and hinders my joy at the advent of the new year.

Let’s see, I accomplished my major running goal this year, which was to run the NYC Marathon, so what’s the big deal then? You may ask.  Well, these are the times it truly bothers me that I’m owner to a really over-active type A personality, cause there were a few other sub-goals attached to that big one, which didn’t quite make it.  Like my desire to qualify for the Boston Marathon 2015 via my time running New York, then there was my running New York in my goal time of 3:30 – those were two separate goals that just happened to share a time similarity – then there was qualifying for the NYC Half Marathon 2014 which didn’t happen either.

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The truth is, it’s not that big of a deal nor is it all bad really.  I’m just indulging in a little drama as for sure I’m entitled since I ran my butt off this year and had a few disappointments, that were..well, disappointing.  But putting those aside, It’s been a rather good running year as there were more ups than downs; the injury that I sustained happened in the latter part of this year, which allowed for some really awesome running up till then. I pretty much ran all over New York for fun as well as training and races.  Thus, my mileage is probably pretty awesome and I didn’t even record the total covered. I really should next year.

So enough of the self-recriminations, no more indulging in feelings of consternation or that of regret. I am blessed. I am happy that I had the opportunity to accomplish some of my goals.  I am thankful for the new year. 2014 brings with it New Dreams, New Opportunities, New Blessings and New Races with the chance to Run Faster, Do Better and Dream Bigger. image

Your First Long Run

07 Dec 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Fitness, Marathons Tags: , , , , , , ,

So you’ve decided to give it a try.  Step out of your 3-5 mile comfort zone and enter the world of longer runs.

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Maybe you’re thinking 10 miles, a half marathon or even a full marathon.  I say let’s start with the half.  It’s a safer bet and you’ll get to them all eventually anyway.  It’s all good.  I’d wager you’re well on your way already given your decision to challenge yourself.  I’ve always agreed that whatever the path of life you choose, you should always give it your best shot; it’s the only way you grow and have the opportunity to realize your full potential.  With that in mind and with you half-way there, after-all making the decision to stretch yourself being the toughest part, here are a few tips to help you along the way.

  • Build up slowly; you’ve done 5 miles so make your next goal 6 miles in say two weeks, three times a week then to 7 miles, then eight and so on.
  • Have an overarching goal/race in mind, that way you’ll be working towards something and will be motivated to see it through.
  • It sometimes helps to have a physical reminder, especially on those days you’re not feeling it; write down your goal and place it where you’re sure to see it and be reminded daily.
  • Find a running buddy; someone who shares your goal and will help you in the areas of encouragement and accountability, one with whom you can discuss healthy eating, rest habits and get motivated.                                          
  • Lastly, as you work your way up the mile rack, it may help if you do trial/test runs. Do a 10k, then as you progress try a 9 miler etc., and always, always, prepare yourself mentally as well as emotionally. Running is no easy feat and the best runners will tell you it’s as much mental as it’s physical.

Good Luck! You’ll do awesome!!!

Smart & Fun Running

27 Nov 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Fitness, Health and Wellness Tags: , , , , , ,

imagesSome people have the wrong idea..they look at running and think, “I can never do that! It’s too boring, to difficult, too tiring and in sme cases, even dangerous…” “Did you hear of tht guy who collapsed after running the marathon…” Propaganda and truth abound over the subject of running but whatever side of the spectrum you’re on there’s one over-riding truth that stands out: running can be and is beneficial to your well being.  However, as with every good thing, there is always the opportunity for abuse and its subsequent consequences.

It is true tht running can become monotonous, that is, if you run the same course, distance and races all with little or no variation.  For that matter, I have a hard time thinking of any activity tht wouldn’t afford the same result if done the same way all the time. If one is to assume the maximum benefit from this “mind sport,” variation is key.

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Today there are so many forms of running and so much fun attached to the sport that it is impossible to maintain an air of indifference or even incredulity. You have the traditional track & field and long distance races such as marathons, and now there are decathlons, urbanathlons, iron man, cross country racing, trail running (my favorite) and so many other shorter fun-type races like mud runs, color runs and obstacle races among others.  Also, if you ever needed a reason to run, there are races for just about every cause you care about.  Running to advance literacy & cancer are two important ones for me, with these races, you get to make an important contribution to society while getting your exercise on.  How’s that for a bonus! I mean that is so FUN! Somewhere among the lot is a run for you, cause you have to believe me when I tell you that YOU were born to RUN!

Now all you have to do is find a running buddy: join a club, find a meet up group or get your friend involved cause it’s so much better to have a reason to run and others to share your running adventures with.

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Smiling through the Pain

17 Nov 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Marathons Tags: , , , , , ,

NYC-Marathon-PhotoI did it! We did it! I preserved through 26.2 miles of pain and completed my first marathon in a time of 4:26:30.  On one hand it’s disappointing, my time that is, but on the other hand, I’m thrilled that I didn’t give in to the pain and stuck it through to the finish line.  It feels awesome enough that I have no regrets, strained ankle notwithstanding, and look forward to my next attempt with much anticipation.  I get it! I get what all the hype and fuss is about when people talk about The New York City Marathon and why it’s considered one of the best if not the best in the world and a must run for competitive and non-competitive runners alike.  I mean, it’s not everyday one gets to run through the most amazing city in the world among a star cast of athletes and be a star yourself as over 2 million spectators cheer you on.  It was an amazing feeling and I credit the crowds with providing the momentum and inspiration for all finishers.  We couldn’t have done it without them.  With that said, I have to pay special tribute to the Brooklyn spectators..they rocked! That was the only part of the race where I was able to leave my pain somewhat behind and connect with the crowds, which wasn’t bad, because it meant that for just over half of the race I was there; body, mind and spirit.

 CONGRATS all around, especially to all FINISHERS!

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Now that’s it’s all over, what’s next, you may ask.  Well, since I didn’t make my qualifying time for Boston 2015, I’m giving it a go once again at the Miami Marathon on 2 February, 2014.  Hopefully injury-free and in top form with nothing but beautiful scenery and a pretty flat course accompanying me.  Of slight concern is the weather, as it’ll most likely be MIAMI-HOT but I’ve run in temperatures like that before, I’m a Caribbean gal after all, and so I just have to prime myself for this.  I feel so excited and know that having run New York is just the beginning.  The sky’s the limit or more likely the World Marathon Series! Stay tuned for more on that.

Ready, Set, Breathe, Go!

02 Nov 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Fitness, Marathons Tags: , , , , ,

I’m ready! I’m in the best frame of mind; calm,  have the right attitude; winning,  and a super-excited Spirit.  I’m eating well today, hydrating, resting up, lightly working out my ankle and plan on relaxing with some movies later on and then turning in early.I’ve done my checklist, got my stuff together and I’m ready!

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I think I have a great plan: slow start for the first few miles, up the ante a bit from mile 8 thru 20 (medium-pace), power up the last 6.2. Gatorade stations are my best friends, I’m sipping at every station except at 4 mile intervals when I’ll have water & my power gels.  Also, I’m totally making use of the fruit stations at mile 20-23.   I’m all about breathing and taking it all in..the race of a lifetime with the most amazing views and awesome cheer crowd in the world.  I’m ready. New York City, here I come!!!

A Runner’s Nightmare

23 Oct 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running Tags: , , , , , , , ,

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It’s been nine days since the Staten Island Half  and my ankle injury.  I am trying to have patience, be faith-filled, faithful and calm and not freak out but I  don’t know how good of a job I’m doing.  Twelve days before the biggest race of my life and I can’t run! How do I deal with that? The crap that’s doing laps in my mind when I can’t – do laps that is.  What will I do? What should I do? These are just some of the questions I’m living with these days.

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Fear, uncertainty, disappointment, anxiety, pain and a host of other little monsters are vying for first place in my mind.

Yet, I’m unshakeable in my conviction that I’ll be better and running in the company of some 40,000 plus runners come Nov 3.  That being said, I’m reminded of how we sometimes and unintentionally take things for granted: ourselves and our abilities, other people, things and situations – not really considering how fragile, transient and fickle it can all be.  I mean who really thinks about all of that when things are going well? As is often said, why borrow trouble? But the truth is, everyday, each moment, every gift and ability we have and each person in our lives should be  treasured, as it’s all part and parcel of who we are and what we’re about.  Imagine having to do without a piece of yourself, eventually you adapt sure but you’re never the same.  So for now, I hold on to my faith and pray that when it’s all I have left that’ll be enough; staying preoccupied in a whirlwind of doctor’s offices  and medication – doing my part as I not-so-patiently wait on God to do His.

The Staten Island Half Marathon

21 Oct 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Marathons, Running

Last Sunday I ran the Staten Island Half Marathon.  What should have been a relatively easy run and a PR accomplishment turned out an extremely painful experience.  I suffered an ankle injury on mile 7 that not only slowed down my pace a great deal but had me limping through the last two excruciating miles.  Unfortunate is an understatement; I could go all drama queen on you and say it was far more catastrophic in my world, as I failed to qualify for the New York City Marathon next year.  I did PR though, limping across the finish line to a new time of 1:36 and missing the qualifying time by six minutes.  Drat.. was all I could think through the haze of pain and tears brought on by a pain far more potent than that of my ankle. And, as I could hardly kick myself..too painful.. I had to  be consoled with the thought that I would eventually be proud of me, after the pain and disappointment ebbed.

In spite of all that went down on Sunday, I have to say that something pretty special happened out there on the course and when I crossed the finish line.  It reminds of one of the reasons why I run; the camaraderie of the runners, their encouragement, the cheers and support of the crowd motivating me to press on, to not give up.. I’m in awe. Had it not been for them, I would not have made it across that finish line. To the special soul who hugged me from behind and encouraged me along.. what a beautiful thing to do.. and to all who came up to me after the race and congratulated me on my determination and finish, you guys are my inspiration. You rock!

Here’s to you…

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Preparing for the Marathon

10 Oct 2013 Leave a comment

by Lori in Competitive Running, Fitness, Health and Wellness, Marathons Tags: , , , , ,

IMG_2441So I’m in! What does that mean? What does it look like?

Honestly, it means a lot.  I dreamt about it sure, I’ve talked and thought about it but I never really thought I would be given the opportunity of running it.  Back in the day, I know I sound ancient, but back home in the islands, we’re bombarded by western media, fashion, culture even and so we think of the United States and it’s like.. that place, we love to hate.  Truth be told, you really want to visit but not to be seen as wanting to.  Anyway, to think that after all these years of having this dream of running the New York City Marathon on my peripheral mind, that I’m actually here, loving it and running it!!! Way cool!

On the other hand, running is no strut on the catwalk.  Competitive running , even some-what competitive (me) demands so much commitment and determination.  I call it, “the sport of the mind” because a lot of preparation begins there.  I’ve written my goal, I tell it to myself daily and even have alert reminders on my phone and running buddies to keep me focused.  It’s like having another job minus the monthly paycheck.  My reward will be 26.2 miles under my shoes come Nov 3 and my medal stating so!

Some idea of what my crazy starting schedule looks like : 5/7 days of running, avg of 50 miles p/wk, strength training 2/7 days, high-intensity cardio, yoga and toning classes 3/7 days p/wk.  I’m also considering joining a  running group that’s doing training runs for the marathon as I feel this is important in acquiring a support base to help with mental and physical preparedness.  Now all I need is more hours in the day; if you can help in this regard, please let me know.

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