Free Race Photos

The Fort Myers Marathon last weekend may have been brutally hot and a major strugglefest...but at least there are free pictures!

I think the pictures really capture the heat, our fatigue, and the general pain that was this morning.

Kristin and I still looking relatively happy at the bottom of the first bridge.

This is just before we went searching for ice at the Wendy's. We're pretending to be happy but too tired to run for the camera.

At the bottom of the last bridge, coming around the final turn to the finish line.

These finishing pictures make me laugh. I was too tired to raise my arms all the way, and my relief is tangible.

I think more races should offer free photos, because it's a motivator to share them, which is free publicity for the race. Honestly, I don't care to reminisce about this race enough to have considered buying/sharing photos otherwise.

Best Damn Race is hoping to provide free photos as well, and that makes me really happy because I think professional pictures of a full marathon are worthwhile keepsakes, but they're usually stupid expensive.

What determines if you'll buy race photos?
Are free photos a factor in whether you'll run a particular race?

ABK

Fort Myers Half Marathon/18-Miler

I was really unexcited for this race. It has a pretty bad reputation for inadequate water stops, the forecast called for ridiculously hot weather, and the race course itself included two giant bridges at the end of the race.

So while I attempted to talk Matt out of spectating - since I wouldn't be racing it anyway - I also decided to rope Kristin into joining me. Misery loves company!

Apparently bridges are a selling point for some people.

Kristin planned to meet me at the house at 4:45am so we could run 5 miles before she signed up the morning of. Then we'd have some time to relax and stretch before the race began at 7am. (Race organizers in Florida need to realize that a marathon/half marathon should start at 6:30 at the latest. Starting after sunrise is asking for disaster.)

I hate you, Florida. Honestly, the weather is making me really nervous for BDR.

Matt was insistent on cheering us on, even though I told him he didn't have to, so I told him he could join us at the finish line so he could sleep later. He decided to come with us and run the 5 miles and spectate the entire race. His presence ended up being our saving grace...but more on that later.

After our five miles, the starting line began to fill up.

Our five miles went smoothly. We got perfect free parking at the start line because we were there so early, and we had plenty of time to have water, use the bathroom, foam roll, and eat before the race began.

And we're off!

The race itself was hot. I know that complaining about weather is one of the most annoying things ever, but seriously. My eyes were burning from my sweat for most of the race, and the heat made it really hard to fuel. Sweet, thick, goopy Gu is just awful when you're running double digits in 90 degrees.

We saw Matt at mile 3 or so and told him to bring us ice the next time we saw him. The course wound through semi-shaded neighborhoods. We struck up conversation with a few other runners. One of the highlights of the course was around mile 5, when we saw "puppies" playing in a yard that turned out to be baby goats. So cute!

We were soon taking walk breaks at each water stop - about every two miles or so - and using landmarks to get ourselves running again. We saw Matt around mile 8, just before we began climbing the first bridge, and at first it looked like he'd forgotten the ice...but fear not! He'd put some in his water bottle for easy transport.

Still all smiles despite the heat.

I shouted, "You're my savior!" as Kristin and I dumped ice in our bras.

We had agreed from the beginning to walk the bridges' ascents. The first bridge had a slow, long slope, and this was our first really long walk break. There was no shade or protection from the sun here, and very little breeze. I began to play mind games - as a race director, what would I add to the race to make it better?

Watermelon. Fruit kabobs. Misters. Troughs of ice along the route. A giant sun-shade to protect the course.

We ran the descent, but the bridge brought us to blacktop and a long, hot slog along 41. Desperate for water, we veered off course to a Wendy's to see if they were open, but no luck.

I texted Matt:

By the time we got to mile 11 of the race (16 for us), we had decided to run to the start of the next bridge, then walk up, as planned. Around 11.5 a woman on the side of the road was providing handfuls of ice, and we gratefully stuffed our bras again and kept trucking. At this point, I just wanted to be done.

My legs felt fine the entire run, but I was just absolutely sapped of energy from the heat. It was really frustrating; if it were cooler out, we could have killed this run.

Bridge 1 on the left, bridge 2 on the right.

Anyway, we got to the base of the bridge and walked. I thanked Kristin for joining me last minute for this long run/race because I think I would have quit without her, it was that miserable. Having a partner really, really helped.

At the top, we knew there was only about half a mile or so left of the race, so we ran down and refused to walk from that point on. We saw Matt just before the finish, and Kristin shouted, "There's Matt! I've never been so happy to see your husband!" I heard Matt yell, "You're almost there, I have your Cokes!"

We ran through the finish together and sat in the grass, where I finally checked my GPS. The half was long, at 13.7 miles.

Matt found us and gave us our Cokes. (Mine said "#1 Fan" on it...so sweet.) Coke after a hot, long run is seriously like the nectar of the gods. If I ever had a doubt before, I know with 100% certainty that Matt is the best spectator ever.

We had water and bananas and generally just tried to cool down in the shade a bit.

The official half time was 2:42ish, about a 12:26 pace, which was fine for a long run, and considering the course was long, my GPS puts the pace at 11:59. Either way, I'm satisfied with that. Our 5 miles before that was at 11:21, so I'm pretty pleased, especially considering all the walking and the horrendous conditions.

Sean had a Go Kart race and couldn't come to the marathon, but he joined us at the end to cheer a bit. It was cool that the top three marathoners were women, but the fact that the lead man had to DNF due to the heat is pretty telling.

After the run, we had breakfast at First Watch.

I had the avocado and bacon skillet with three eggs over easy.

I took a super long nap once we got home. My legs and feet actually feel great, but I'm exhausted. I really hope we get some cooler weather for BDR, because I can't imagine doing a full in this kind of heat.

ABK

Things I've Learned from My Half Marathons

Long-distance running is a wonderful teacher. (It's also pretty relative. There was a time when 4 miles seemed like an impossible feat for me!) You have to respect a distance that bleeds into the double-digits and during which you may need to literally eat while you run.

Now that I've done six half marathons and am gearing up to try-try again for a full in the winter, I find myself reflecting on those previous races. They've definitely taught me a lot.

Half #1: Naples Daily News 2011

The pain in my face is real. I stupidly ran this because I'd paid, even though I had no business running it.

My first half marathon, run on literally zero training, taught me the value of following a plan. I let work and stress get in the way and ended up "running" this half in 2:56. I came out of it humbled, injured, and angry at running. I learned from this race that dedication is key. I was fired up to try again and do it right next time.

Half #2: the St. Pete Women's 2012

Training well with my partner really helped us PR this race!

Learning from our mistakes, Kelsey and I trained our hearts out for the St. Pete Women's Half the following year. And boy did it pay off! I PR'd by over 40 minutes, finishing in 2:15 on the nose. This half taught me that you can achieve way more than you expect if you do the training. I never expected to run a race of this distance in that kind of time. I learned that sometimes dedication means running at 4:30am. This race also taught me the value of long runs! I'll never neglect those again.

Half #3: Naples Daily News 2013

Kelsey and her oldest daughter cheer me on at the finish.

There was a light and dark side to my lessons with my second attempt at the NDN, and I think this one was the biggest learning experience for me. While I did learn to take failure in stride (my time was 2:37, and coming off my PR that was hard to swallow), I also learned that I need some time off between big races. This race had me convinced that January was a bad race month for me in general. I raced this half totally burned out, and it showed. I learned that rest and recuperation are key.

Half #4: Fort Myers Beach 2013

Lesson learned: stay positive!

 If half #3 taught me to accept failure, then half #4 taught me to stay positive. After the second NDN half, I decided to change my mindset. I vowed to be more positive about running, because after all, why run if I don't love it? This race was supposed to be my first full, but an injury knocked me down to the half. I nearly didn't run it at all - I was on antibiotics for an upper-respiratory infection - but I just couldn't back out. This half was painful in many ways (my finish was my second-slowest at 2:41), but I felt like superwoman for finishing because I stuck it out and gave it what I had. I raced smart for my circumstances. I learned that we can't control every aspect of race day - like the jump in temperature or my illness - but we can control our attitude. I learned to be mentally tough. On a practical note, I also learned the importance of hydration on fueling during the training for this race!

Half #5: Suncoast 2014

I wonder if Mom knew she was going to be matching me when she went with her purple vest!

I was so excited for this half. It cut through my parents' neighborhood, meaning I'd run most of the route at one time or another and knew exactly what to expect. I wanted to make up for the previous half's bad luck, and boy did I! The weather was cool and overcast; it even rained toward the end. But what I learned from this race was 1) to never underestimate the energy boost a cheering section will give you, and 2) making friends on the course is a great distraction. This race taught me that coming into the finishing chute with your hands raised is totally acceptable, because even if you don't PR a race (my time was a respectable 2:24 on this one), you've still done something amazing. I also broke two "curses" on this race: the January-curse and the mile-9-slump!

Half #6: Paradise Coast 2014

Could this starting-line photo be any more perfect?

The pattern I've noticed in my most recent half marathons is that the more positive I feel going into a race, no matter my goals, the better experience I have. This race, which I ran the day after my birthday as a celebration for myself, was my best by far. I remembered my previous lessons: fuel, hydrate, dedicate and push yourself, and be mentally tough. Coming off Ragnar, I had no goal. I just wanted to have fun and do my thing. But here's the beauty of teaching and learning: when you remember the lessons and apply them, great things happen. It took three half marathons (not including the distance I raced overnight for Ragnar) in between to do it, but I finally earned a new PR (2:11) on this race. More importantly, I learned the value of digging deep and challenging myself. I learned that even training mostly alone, I am capable of great things. I learned to balance running with others, running alone, long runs, speedwork, and other training/cross-training techniques. Oh, and I learned the right podcast can really give you a leg up.

One of the best things about running is how much it teaches us about ourselves and our abilities. With these lessons under my belt, I feel ready to tackle my first marathon in November. I know now that I must (and more importantly, CAN) do the training; control what I can and let go of what I can't; and stay positive and mentally tough.

(Detailed race recaps can be found under the "My Races" tab at the top of the page.)

What have you learned from your previous races?
What is your favorite distance to race?
Have you ever had a race that was just ROUGH, but taught you a lesson?

ABK

After A Race

I don't know about you guys, but after a big race I get re-bitten by the running bug. Training can really burn a runner out, but once the race is over, the high comes back with a vengeance.

Of course, if you're me, you're going to be really diligent about resting this time around, especially because of that damn lingering cold. So how do I satisfy my running urges?

First red cup of the season: egg nog latte! And they actually spelled my name right!

I splurge on expensive coffee and go shopping.

I'm so glad they finally make this in a roll-on! I also spent quality time with a heating pad, tennis ball, and foam roller.

I noticed I basically run all my races in the same top; I love it, but I'm getting a little tired of the photos. So I went to TJ MAXX and scored some comfy New Balance and Nike tops. I love brand-name running clothes at discount prices!

Under $15? Yes please.

I tried on the purple and loved the fit so much I grabbed it in blue, too.

Then, hearing that Old Navy was having a sale, I splurged on a new long-sleeved running top and singlet. I also snagged some new socks because I think it's time.

Breathable, cushiony, supportive. The best of all worlds!

I've worn them for volleyball this week and I'm already loving them.

Official race photos were finally posted. As usual, they're super awkward. I feel like the clothes I like to race in photograph to give the illusion that my head is abnormally small for my body.

Hey awkward-hand, watcha doing there? Just hanging out?

Oh I see, it was halfway up to become a peace sign. Original.

Well, actually, my head is abnormally small...hats rarely fit me...so maybe these capture my true self after all!

 I look forward to the day when I have big, chiseled runner's thighs. That day is not today.

Admittedly, this one isn't so bad. Maybe I should run all my races with my arms up at all times.

On the radar now is...a 5k Turkey Trot (just for fun), officially beginning Ragnar training, and maybe a half that literally runs past my parents' house. It's pricy, but the route couldn't be better! Plus, I think I owe myself a strong, good half after the last one. The half is part of a challenge I'm considering signing up for.

I'm tempted to do all three, but likely can't make it to the 5k.

How do you deal with post-race blues?
Do you like to bargain shop? What's the best deal you've found lately?
Does anyone ever have good race photos? Like, c'mon now.
Icy/Hot, Tiger Balm, or BioFreeze?

ABK

Fort Myers Beach Half Marathon 2013

So what happens when a runner, after two weeks off and a borderline upper-respiratory infection, decides last minute to actually run the race she's been preparing for?

Well, I won't lie. The race was rough. I had to really dig deep to push myself through it, while at the same time cutting myself slack due to circumstances. It was a weird balance of disappointment, resignation, and personal understanding like I've never experienced.

Tried and true: I stuck with my go-to Saucony Hydralite top.

When I decided to run the race Saturday night, I immediately sought out others I knew were running it. Sarah, who ran the 10k and 15k with me recently, immediately offered to carpool. I got my stuff together.

Breakfast of semi-champions: peanut butter and honey on toast and a cup of coffee.

When I woke up Sunday morning, my stomach was doing what runners are used to...nothing like some GI distress to start the day. I tore through all my purses until I miraculously found a sample packet of Immodium. I took half a dose, which was enough to allow things to move along, but then put the necessary stopper in the pipes.

I chose to run with Gatorade Energy Chews instead of Gu Chomps because the shape of the package fit better in my fuel belt with my inhaler taking up space.

The super-crowded trolley that brought us to the start line.

Pre-race: all smiles!

 Sarah and I got to the trolley pickup spot at 6am. The race began at 7; we got on a trolley at 6:40. Yeah. We were a little anxious, but luckily we were able to check our bags and use the porta-potties before start time. I am so glad I remembered to carry TP with me. That could have made for a nasty run.

Sean was smart and got to the venue early enough to see sunrise. Here's the bridge we ran across.

The giant bridge was the end of the first mile. It's twice as steep as the bridge I sometimes run during training. It actually wasn't that bad. So early in the race, my legs felt fresh and I took the bridge nice and slow to account for my asthma.

A little blurry; all the runners making their way up the bridge.

I kept my earbuds out for the first few miles, until I had my first fuel/water stop. Then I popped those suckers in and enjoyed the first half of the race. It was overcast and breezy at this point, a little humid, but not bad by usual Florida standards. My plan was to eat/drink at miles 3, 6.5, and 10.

By the time I got to the halfway point, though, I knew I had to adjust that plan. My energy was low and my muscles were cramping up something wicked. I wonder if my impaired breathing had something to do with that.

I saw Sarah and Sean as they came back from the turnaround, which was a nice morale booster. At mile 8 I took my first non-fueling walk break. By this time, the sun was high and had burned off any cloud cover. There was no shade. The main stretch of the race was basically 11 miles of straight urban road.

I saw this sign on my way to packet pickup and nearly cried with disappointment at the idea of not running this race.

This was the first moment that I wondered if maybe I shouldn't have run this half. But then I remembered my visceral reaction when I saw the Marathon - Expect Delays traffic sign while picking up my packet. I would finish this race...slow, painful, ugly...I didn't care. I was going to finish it.

I passed Five Guys, storage places, the hospital, and a multitude of other concrete establishments. Not the most inspirational of routes. There weren't a ton of spectators, but the ones who were there were awesome!

As the temperature rose, I decided I'd have to take walk breaks at each mile. The 2.5 miles between water stops became a problem; I could tell I was dehydrated. (Probably due to cold medications on top of everything else.) I began drinking Gatorade along with water at the stops, as much as I hate to drink it while racing. I knew I needed the sugar.

So, with all this walking, imagine my surprise when I realized at mile 10 that I was still safe to come in under 3 hours. (3 hours for a half marathon isn't really a good goal for me usually, of course, but today was different.)

I found my second wind with 1.5 miles to go. I was able to run to the last drink stop, at the base of that same bridge.

This look of relief is not at all feigned.

The last stretch was literally all downhill. From the top of the bridge, I could see the runners looping around to the finish below. I kicked it up. I let the momentum of the bridge push me through the last quarter mile, and I finished feeling strong and satisfied with my tortoise-pace (2:41:13...not my worst, but certainly not my best).

How Florida is this start/finish?

Sarah, Sean and I enjoying our bling. This was Sarah's first half, and she finished in 1:47. Ah-maz-ing!

Am I happy as a runner with my time? Not really. Was the race difficult? Hell yes. Am I glad I did it? Absolutely and without a doubt.

Despite the disappointing time and all the walking, I earned this baby.

I proved something to myself today, and the pain and struggle was well worth it.

Also, I think it was a miracle that I couldn't run this as a full. The dull, quiet course and brutal weather wouldn't have been a good one for my first marathon.

I think I need to add some more hooks to my bib holder!

Post-race meal: sushi!

Sometimes races are about more than the time and the performance.

Take that, DNR.

Here's a weird thing about long-distance races: afterward, I'm both starving and disgusted by food. As hungry as I was all day today, I could barely stomach more than chocolate milk, sushi, and a handful of grapes. Does this happen to anyone else?

Post-race, I'm having some pain in both knees and there's a fist-sized spot at the small of my back that is just killing me...But I think that's related to sitting in the trolley on the ride back more than anything else. Also, the almost-blister I got at the 15k came back in the same spot. Maybe it's time for new socks?

I hope to be in tip-top shape by Tuesday.

I need to give a quick shout-out to Kristina! She ran her first ever half-marathon. With a bucket-list that includes running an ultra before she's 30, I'd say this is the first big step toward her goals!

I can't wait for some of the professional pictures to come back to so I share the total awkwardness of my running form.

ABK