Posts Tagged With: marathon

Where there’s a storm, there’s a rainbow.

Posted on April 16, 2013 by therunningteacher
credit: CNN

credit: CNN

It is said that April 15, 2013 marks a day of tragedy in the running world, forever changing the face of the Boston Marathon. 176 were wounded and 3 died in the bombings.

I heard about the events unfolding, while at Home Depot. I called a friend, who told me about CNN’s breaking news. Suddenly, my focus on cleaning the basement felt trivial. We both had friends running the marathon. I turned to my phone for my information, suddenly bombarded by photos, videos, and articles covering every surface area of the news section.

Rooted in place, I couldn’t wipe the tears away. Memories flooded back of 9/11, Sandy Hook, and college shootings. Other individuals had similar reactions upon hearing the news and began checking for more information.  We sought solace in each other. All I could think of was going to pick up my little man, giving him a great, big ole’ squeeze, and going home to see my husband.

To imagine what the spectators, volunteers, and runners went through and are still going through is incomprehensible.

credit: CNN

credit: CNN

For every storm, there’s a rainbow waiting to shine through.

A few articles and reports trickled in, focusing on the dozens of volunteers, National Guard, and runners that immediately turned back towards the carnage to offer assistance. Among them doctors, civil servants, and every day, ordinary people. Help poured out online in the form of donations and places to stay for stranded and evacuated individuals.

credit: Run Junkees

credit: Run Junkees

Virtual runs expressing solidarity and unity popped up across Facebook like wildflowers, including the Runners United to Remember. I invite you to join the event page for Runners United to Remember. If you are in the Atlanta area, I also invite you to join the Adventure Runners on our group run in conjunction with the online event, taking place this Thursday.

We cannot and must not let the cowardly acts of gutless individuals lessen or dim the light the binds us together as runners, as a society. “Run Happy” is not just a physical run. It’s a state of mind, an attitude, a spirit. Running happy has never been more important than it is right now, here in this moment. Do not shirk away. Run happy for those in Boston, for the spectators, volunteers, and for the runners. Run in their names and in their spirits. Run happy for yourself. Run for those who cannot run.

In doing so, we are united, a solid force with which to be reckoned. Not a soul will dilute our spirit, extinguish the force that drives us, or diminish our sport.

running happy!

running happy!

***In remembrance and reverence of those affected by the events on April 15, 2013.***

Categories: inspiration, motivation, running | Tags: , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, what do you see? I see a…

Posted on March 20, 2013 by therunningteacher
view from the top of Becky's Bluff

view from the top of Becky’s Bluff

It’s that time of year when hibernating runners stretch their arms and eagerly lace up their shoes. Spring races are aplenty, offering a variety of distances, satiating every type of runner. Spring also brings with it my favorite trail race, the Twisted Ankle Marathon and Half.

I first ran this race in 2010 and again in 2012. I missed 2011 following the birth of our child, a good enough excuse, though I did contemplate running. What attracted me to TA (get your mind out of the gutter) were the rumors of a brutal, yet inspiring climb that brings most a runner to their knees, a gorgeous waterfall and watermelon. Yup, you heard it, watermelon. It doesn’t take much to entice us runners, does it? :P

TA24

Course Outline

I know last year disappointed a few runners, as the course was moved to accommodate changes in park codes, adding a fire break and a lap around the park. This year’s course will go back to the way it was in 2011 and before! :D WOOT! The marathon course will have a few changes, including less gravel road and the possibility of the fire break for an additional challenge. Personally, I loved last year’s fire break. Then again, I run better on unstable surfaces.

start of fire break

start of fire break

Becky’s Bluff, the main attraction to the race, will greet runners right after mile three, so resist the urge to go all out in the beginning. I personally save my energy until after the ~650 ft. climb, which takes place in all of ½ mile or so. Becky wasn’t bluffing! You can thank her personally at the finish line. :)

Here is where the tortoise beats the hare!

Here is where the tortoise beats the hare!

halfway up Becky's Bluff

halfway up Becky’s Bluff

Aid Stations

Aid stations are fully stocked to handle the flock of runners that brave Becky’s Bluff in May’s warm temps, which can sometimes be unseasonably warm. Look for pretzels to help replenish sodium and PBJ sandwiches for a quick energy and protein boost to power those aching muscles. The almighty Gummi Bear in its rainbow glory, PowerAde, water and bananas are also available. It is rumored the Gummi Bears have magical powers that propel you up and over Becky’s Bluff. ;P Cut fruit, chocolate chip cookies, PowerAde, and Water greet runners at the finish. We may have pizza this year too! More about this as we get through April, so check back.

twisted ankle

Training Runs

There are two, scheduled training runs, which will be loads of fun, trail-runner style! The runs are slated for April 7th and April 28th, both Sundays. I look forward to seeing smiling faces on the late April run! I’m the crazy gal carrying the camera and snapping pics at every turn, landing the occasional pirouette along the trail. :)

Hope to see you all there! This is one race you do NOT want to miss!

Categories: race, running, trail running | Tags: , , , , , , | 2 Comments

A Runner’s Feast

Posted on March 8, 2013 by therunningteacher

2-color GM logo

First the first time since its inception, SEVEN on-course food stations are being added to the Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon! With the dietary needs of runners in mind, Publix is offering a variety of food available to runners during the challenging miles of the race.

155134625

Among the normal favs, bananas and orange slices, expect to see the following at these locations throughout the full marathon course:

  • Miles 6-7: easy-to-chew jelly beans will help you move past the 10k mark, giving you just the burst of energy you need to keep on truckin’!
  • Mile 11: Pretzel bites with peanut butter filling will help replenish your need for salt while satisfying your sweet tooth.
  • Mile 13: Orange slices provide a refreshing and invigorating change of pace, just in time for the half marathon mark!
  • Miles 16-17: Oreos anyone?
  • Miles 20-21: Be sure to grab a banana for a potassium boost, which will help ward off those tired, “lead” legs!
  • Miles 22-23: You’re nearly there with just a bit over 5k left to go! Grab some more orange slices for a quick sugar boost and to moisture your mouth! Keep those cramps at bay!
  • Miles 25-26: You deserve a sweet treat for your hard work. Toss in a handful of M&M’s as you run by. Just about a mile to go!

Not only did Publix provide bite-sized treats for runners throughout the course, but they also gave thought to post-race needs as well, offering a variety of fresh and nutritious foods/treats for runners. Veteran runners will be delighted with the changes, while first-timers are bound to come back again next year.

Good luck runners and be sure to let me know what you thought of this year’s sweets and treats. :)

Categories: 2013, exercise, fitness | Tags: , , , , , | 4 Comments

And the winner is….

Posted on March 2, 2013 by therunningteacher

883118_10151367303603505_1904552976_o

Whew, this post is down to the wire tonight! I got a kick out of reading the different signs you have all seen, and I hope you take a minute to see what other people have posted. :) …and if you don’t run away with tonight’s entry, courtesy of Publix Georgia Marathon, be sure to use code BLOG10OFF13 . This code is good for both the full and half, so enjoy! While I won’t be able to run alongside you all, you will find me volunteering at the event. I don’t know what my role will be, but I will make sure to let everyone know on Facebook. I’d love to meet some of the awesome folks that give me a reason to write!

Without further adieu, drumroll please!

Congratulations to Priscilla! WOOT!

And just for giggles, here was the sign she wrote for the Athens Half earlier this year: “Naked cheerleaders, Next Mile!”

Please contact me within 48 hours via private message on my Facebook page. :)

Thank you again to all who entered! I wish everyone luck, as they embark on what is set to be the BEST Georgia Marathon yet! I look forward to serving my fellow runners and to interviewing participants at the finish line! :D

Night all!

seal-en1

I use RandomPicker to choose winners at random. The winner has 48 hours to contact me. After 48 hours, I will draw again. As required by the FTC, I do not receive compensation for this giveaway and am a partner blogger with the Georgia Publix Marathon.

Categories: 2013, contest, giveaway | Tags: , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Round 2: Publix Georgia Marathon/Half Marathon Giveaway!

Posted on February 25, 2013 by therunningteacher

2-color GM logo

I always send big shout-outs to race volunteers and to the crowd. A high-energy crowd provides motivation and encouragement to all runners and is particularly useful at creating distractions during challenging sections. I love looking for signs throughout a race and have seen several that have elicited a wide range of reactions from surprise to laughter to “Why I oughta…!” I know you all have that ONE sign that you just can’t forget, found hilarious, couldn’t believe someone actually wrote that, etc.

Ummm....

Ummm….

Win a FREE race entry into the Publix Georgia Marathon or Half Marathon!

Here’s how it works. You MUST complete step 1 to enter the giveaway. If you would like to earn additional entries and boost your chances of running away with the entry, complete each additional step. :) It’s that simple!

  • 1. Think of the most insane, wackiest, funniest, etc. sign you’ve seen at a race, and share it by commenting on this post. Make sure to include your first name AND last initial. (1 entry) REQUIRED
  • 2. Become a fan of Georgia Marathon on Facebook. Leave a comment on THEIR fan page letting them know The Running Teacher sent you AND come back here to leave a comment letting me know you did. Include your Facebook handle. (2 entry)
  • 3. Become a follower of Georgia Marathon on Twitter. Come back here and leave a comment letting me know you did. Include your Twitter handle. (2 entry)
  • 4. Follow my blog to be the first to know about future giveaways. Leave a comment on here letting me know you did. (1 entry)

Contest runs from February 25th (Monday) through March 1st  (Friday). I will announce the winner Saturday evening at 8 p.m.  using RandomPicker. Announcements will be made via my blog, Facebook and via Twitter. The winner has 48 hours to contact me (private message via my Facebook page). After 48 hours, I will move to the person next in line and so on. ***Giveaway entrants must plan on running the Publix Georgia Marathon or Half Marathon and live within the United States.***

Good luck! Can’t wait to read about the signs everyone has seen! :)

Categories: 2013, contest, giveaway, running | Tags: , , , , | 50 Comments

The Nitty Gritty: Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon

Posted on February 23, 2013 by therunningteacher

2011RaceStartPint-sized leprechauns,  shamrocks, lucky charms and pots of gold as far as the eye can see…o.k., so I can’t promise you pots of gold or pint-sized leprechauns  however, you’re sure to have a blast following the céilí dances of Irish dancers, as they rev up the crowd at the start line of the 7th annual Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon.

More than 16,000 runners are expected to fill Centennial Olympic Park and the streets of Atlanta in what will be the best Georgia Marathon yet!

IGM_01_038_2_1

Course Layout

Both the marathon and half marathon will head out on Marietta Street towards Georgia State University, enjoying nearly 2.5 miles of speedy, downhill running. Crossing over the Jackson Bridge, you’ll enjoy a fabulous skyline view of the ATL.

The King house is around mile 3.5, a well-known historical site and perfect photo-op area.  Runners then pass through the fourth ward and eclectic Little Five Points before coming upon the Carter Center.

IGM_02_027

Once runners hit the Ponce-Highland Neighborhood, the marathoners will split off and continue to enjoy key landmarks like Candler Park, Agnes Scott College, Emory University, and the Druid Hills neighborhood featuring the house highlighted in Driving Miss Daisy.

2013 Georgia Marathon course

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that there are plenty of rolling hills throughout the course. After all  Atlanta is known for “Heat, Hills and Humidity.” Still, the “biggest” hill runners will encounter is at the 9.5 mile marker (lasting approximately a mile) for marathoners and mile 9ish (lasting approximately 1.25 miles or so) for half marathoners. …think long and steady, not short and steep. This is where the tortoise will catch the hare.

Both courses are routed back to Marietta Street towards the Finish, where crowds of well-wishers and cheers of encouragement propel runners across the finish line.

IGM_01_473_1

Entertainment

With Hard Rock Café as the official entertainment sponsor of the Publix Georgia Marathon, get ready to enjoy the acoustics and serenades of multiple bands throughout the course. Prior to the start, enjoy the Bluegrass sounds of Jordan Grassi & Band performing live at Centennial Park stage. Once you cross the finish line, get ready to jam to a different tune and rock it out to live music provided by the Hard Rock Café at the Finish Line Festival.

2011GAMARATHON Aid Station 3

Aid Stations

2013 brings with it the addition of seven food stations, offering a variety of bite-sized goodies, including orange slices, bananas, jelly beans, m&m’s, pretzels with peanut-butter filling and cookies, sure to please any runner!

And get this…19, that’s right, NINETEEN hydration stations, complete with Crystal water and Powerade serve to quench the thirst of over 16,000 runners. Stations are evenly spaced at the following locations: shortly before mile 2, near mile 4, near mile 5.5, and slightly before mile 7. The station at mile 7 also offers GU energy gels, a personal fav I always keep in my running arsenal, for both half and also full marathoners.

2011GAMARATHON Aid Station 2

At this point, the course splits, but don’t fret. Hydration stations are never more than two miles apart for either course. Race organizers have taken serious time in orchestrating the location of all nineteen hydration stations and the addition of the newly added, seven food stations.

If you haven’t had a chance to register for the 2013 Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon, there’s still time! …AND through March 12th, you can use code BLOG10OFF13 to take $10 off either the marathon or half marathon registration fee!

 

Looking forward to seeing you all there, and keep on runnin’ happy. :)

Night all!

Categories: 2013, contest, discounts, giveaway, race, race reviews, running | Tags: , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Happy Valentine’s Day: Publix Georgia Marathon

Posted on February 6, 2013 by therunningteacher
Coming Soon!!!! March 17, 2013

Coming Soon!!!! March 17, 2013

It’s close to 10 here, and this girl is about to hit the sack. Our little man caught another cold with a wicked case of nighttime coughing. We started breathing treatments again last night, and tonight seems a bit better, so it looks like this mami may be able to get herself a good 3-5 hours of sleep.

Before logging, I had to write a quick, little post, so that you all could share these Valentine’s Day treats with me! :)

I’ve teased you for weeks now, hinting at a discount code for the Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon and a sweet giveaway to boot! Gotta give a shout out to Jason with the Publix Georgia Marathon for giving all my readers $10 off the marathon or half marathon. Take your pick! …but don’t wait too long. The code expires March 12, 2013. :) So here ya go!

Discount Code: BLOG10OFF13 

Publix Georgia Marathon 2012

Publix Georgia Marathon 2012

Craving more? Starting this Thursday, February 7, 2013, my first giveaway for a FREE entry into the Publix Georgia Marathon/Half Marathon 2013 begins! The contest will run through 8 p.m. (EST), on Wednesday, February 13th. I’ll announce the winner on Valentine’s Day, 9 p.m. (EST). :) Enter in 2 easy steps. You may have completed one of those already!

  1. Follow my blog. You’ll be among the first to find out about giveaways and other running-related news!
  2. Leave a comment on this post answering the following “What keeps you going while running when it gets tough?” ***In your comment, be sure to mention that you followed the blog and include your first name and last initial. This makes it easier when the announcement is made. :) ***

That’s it! The first one is as easy as clicking a button. The second serves to give inspiration to us all. :)

The winner will be announced Valentine’s Day BY 9 p.m. EST. The winner has 48 hours to contact me either via my blog or via a private message on my Facebook page. After 48 hours, I will announce the person next in line, and so on. In order to enter and win, entrants must live in the United States AND intend on running the Publix Georgia Marathon or Half Marathon. The voucher will only be made in the winner’s name.

Night all! And Happy early Valentine’s Day! :)

Categories: 2013, contest, discounts, race | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , | 16 Comments

Find a Penny, Pick it Up!

Posted on February 5, 2013 by therunningteacher

ATL

When’s the last time you filled up your tank? I had no choice but to fill ‘er up a few days ago and almost choked while watching the numbers roll around in circles. With gas at $3.40/gallon, it’s nice when a girl comes across a deal that saves a bit of money.

The Atlanta Hawks, in partnership with US Road Sports & Entertainment group and the Publix Georgia Marathon, is offering a fun way for those interested in running the Publix Georgia Marathon/Half Marathon to receive a discount for being loyal Hawks fans.

Here’s how it works:

“For each Hawks home victory from February 6th- February 8th, those wanting to register for the race will receive a discount “equal to the total number of Hawks points in excess of the opposing team’s score.” So if the Hawks win by 10, you get $10 off! If they win by 12 or 14, you get $12 or $14 off! Pretty sweet, huh?

Here are the two games that count towards the discount:

Wednesday, February 6th vs. Memphis Grizzlies

               Friday, February 8th vs. New Orleans Hornets

The discount is valid between noon and 11:59 p.m. EST the day following the win. Use code PGMHAWKS13 when registering.

 

Good luck!

 

Get the news first about discounts and giveaways by following my blog! Hint, hint: Another discount is on the way in the next week if you miss out on the Hawks ANNDDDD my next giveaway starts Saturday, February 9th!

Categories: discounts, race | Tags: , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Where Age isn’t a Barrier: The Publix Georgia Marathon

Posted on February 4, 2013 by therunningteacher
Coming Soon!!!! March 17, 2013

Coming Soon!!!! March 17, 2013

Age is just a number, a self-imposed barrier people place upon themselves. “I’m too old to do that.” “At my age?” HAH! Let me state right now that I had my butt handed to me, as I chased a 63-64 young woman at a race just a year ago! I ended up finishing strong, but honestly, I don’t believe I could have done it had it not of been for her. And that sad part…she wasn’t racing. :/

Going for the Gold!

Going for the Gold!

With that said, where can one find the youngsters mingling with the veterans and hot pants mixed in with Generations X, Y, and Z? 2013 brings with it the return of the Publix Georgia Marathon and a day of fun for all to be had whether you’re a young lad/lass or a finely, seasoned wine. :)

Looking Strong!

Looking Strong!

2013 is better than ever, and this year marks a triple hitter! We are combining the Cuties Luckie 5k, Georgia Marathon, and half marathon into a single day, March 17th, 2013.

This year’s marathon and half marathon course will meander through Atlanta’s most interesting and historic sites, including the Sweet Auburn District, Inman Park, Decatur, Druid Hills, Virginia-Highland and Midtown areas. Make sure to bring your camera along with your family to capture these inspiring views and memorable moments along the way! The King Center, Piedmont Park, Carter Center, and local college campuses are just a few highlights along the way.

Publix Georgia Marathon 2012

Publix Georgia Marathon 2012 (picture courtesy of Elise Q.)

So here’s the nitty-gritty:

Publix Georgia Marathon

When: Sunday, March 17, 2013

Where: Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta, GA

Start Time: 7:00 a.m. ***Wheelchair Half begins at 6:55***

Price: $115 Marathon (until March 10th), Half Marathon $95 (until March 10th)

Cuties Luckie 5k

When: Sunday, March 17, 2013

Where: Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta, GA

Start Time: 7:30 a.m.

Price: $30

On a side note, late registration is available during the expo. And for my bargain hunters, check out my blog on Wednesday (February 6th) when I’ll post how you can score yourself a discount. You’ll also be the first to get the details on my next giveaway! :D So stoked! :D

For more details on the Publix Georgia Marathon and Cuties Luckie 5k, check out their official website. Have questions? Let me know, and I’ll try my best to get an answer for ya! :)

Night all and Keep on Running Happy!

Categories: race | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Definitely NOT “Mom” Jeans: the Brooks Glycerin Skort

Posted on November 11, 2012 by therunningteacher

Mami and I just finished up a 3 mile run. I was stylin’ in my puppy shirt sippin’ on Thomas the Train apple juice while poppin’ a cereal bar. Not sure why mami was huffing and puffing like the big bad wolf…hmmm, she was only pushing an extra 55 pounds, and there were only 3 hills

Piece of Flair

Nothing says “sexy” better than the Glycerin Skort. Perfect for showing off toned legs and rock hard thighs earned from miles upon miles of running back-breaking hills, the Glycerin packs more than just a pretty fashion punch. …and with seven colors to choose from, that’s a skort a day!

Hourglass, Ruler, Spoon, or Pear?

Though it’s been in my closet since mid-July, I finally was able to penguin my way into it today! The Glycerin does run a bit smaller than the typical Brooks small (then again, I have curvy hips and a derriere to boot), which is why it took so long for me to get into it without stretching it. From the moment I put it on, there were obvious differences from the PR Mesh Skort, which I am accustomed to wearing (discussed in a review later this week).

The most noticeable difference was the fit. Though described as “semi-fitted,” it is much tighter across the hips than the PR Mesh Skort, kind of reminds me of a running mini-skirt. The brief is naturally much shorter too, falling just an inch to two inches below the bottom of the derriere.

tighter waistband, falls about two inches below the natural waistline

Needless to say, I was a bit worried. Would my tushie hang out while running? I’m way beyond my youth to run around like a Jersey Shore wannabe. A few lunges and squats later, I still was not convinced but hoped for the best and headed out with my son for a run.

Let’s Get Technical, Technical!

A mile into the run, my fears were laid to rest. The silicon grippers stayed firmly in place. A bit tighter for my liking; however, I probably still need to lose another 2-3 pounds for these to fit comfortably (currently 127), so I can’t blame the skort on this one. :P

The spandex-mesh briefs were very comfortable, lightweight, and extremely breathable. It literally felt like going au naturel! O.O

The skirt material is, as mentioned, much tighter than the PR mesh, not quite fitted but also not semi-fitted, in my opinion. I like the little pleats and slits cut into each side of the skirt, which allow for freedom of movement and prevents the skirt from riding up.

Pleated Slits

Like the PR Mesh, there are two pockets, one on the back of the skirt and a deep, hidden one on the brief with a Velcro clasp. The back pocket is a bit small; however, perfect for carrying a gel and a car key. The hidden pocket on the brief is quite large and stretchy, capable of carrying an iPod, car keys, and a gel or TWO!

The hidden pocket in the brief

the back pocket

——————————————————————-

Overall, Brooks created another GREAT running skort that exudes confidence with a sexy, feminine touch that booms with “You’ve been Chicked!” Its’ lightweight, fast-action material makes it a perfect choice whether you’re chasing that  PR or looking for a more leisurely run.

As always,

Run Happy!

Categories: Brooks, Brooks ID, running, running accessories, running apparel | Tags: , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Blog at WordPress.com. Theme: Adventure Journal by Contexture International.

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 628 other followers

%d bloggers like this: