soldier field 10 mile recap

Disclaimer: I received entry for Soldier Field 10 Mile to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

If anyone knows the lady on the left, I'd love to try and connect with her!
Free race photos from RAM Racing. Thank you!

If you have read a few of my previous posts, you know that I was running my fourth consecutive Soldier Field 10 Mile. I've always loved this race as a fun way to kick off Memorial Day Weekend, and was a great reminder as to why we have that special day on Monday. You can read my BibRave review here, or check out my previous posts - 'Up Next: Soldier Field 10 Mile', 'Soldier Field 10 Mile Quick Guide' '2015 recap', or '2014 recap'.

Soldier Field 10 Mile was taken over by RAM Racing for management. Previously it had been a Fleet Feet event. Packet pickup was on multiple days (you can read about that in other blogs), and I had my mom go get ours because I was too swamped with work to get into the city during the week. She said it was easy peasy and no trouble grabbing mine.

I was not a huge fan of the shirt this year. It's blue camouflage, which totally goes with the race theme/weekend, but not really my style. I also dislike the fabric. It's a bit hefty of a material, but doesn't feel like quality material. Last year was Under Armor which was great, so when comparing this one seemed a bit cheap, sorry to say. It's too heavy to wear in the summer, and I don't know how anyone wore it on race day. I was so hot in a tank! 

Race morning brought some warm temps. It was sunny and in the 70s when we got around to starting. Talk about a sweaty run. Just about my entire tank was soaked through. Woof.

We got to Soldier Field around 6:15, and then had to sit in a little bit of traffic to get to the parking garage. It wasn't as bad as you might expect for such a large race, and I felt the line moved fairly quickly because they had the gates up (parking was FREE! Such a rare thing for a Chicago race, but I think it's necessary or no one would ever make it to the race on time and that line to get to parking would be backed up down 55). You had to enter the garage from McFetridge and Museum Campus Drive – they didn't have the entrance on McFetridge open like they sometimes do, but for us parking wasn't too bad. It maybe took 15 minutes to get in and park.

We grabbed our gear and headed out. There were porta-potties outside with not too long lines, so we figured we'd just go there rather than inside which might have longer lines. Around 6:45, we tried to get inside the stadium. It was a new set up this year and the corrals/start line was 'on the field'. 

Great views!

Well, it was a hot day, and not a fan of Nuun I brought my Orange Mud Endurance Pack with Tailwind to replenish my electrolytes. Every security guard told us, and not in a friendly way, either, that we were not allowed to use them. And yet, we saw multiple people entering with huge fuel belts and fanny packs filled to the brim, and they weren't getting hassled at all. So, we brought them back to the car. We later found out that if we had entered through Gate 4–6 where spectators were going to get bags checked and go through metal detectors, we could have used them. Well, that would have been awesome to know ahead of time, and if they had informed the staff, because they all said we couldn't use them at all. Even if we went that way. For me, this was problem number 1, and honestly things just went downhill from here.

When I got back from the car and we headed into the stadium it was about 7:05 or so. One of the security guards commented 'nice of you to join us', and it wasn't in a friendly manner. What's the deal with all of the bad attitudes from everyone there that day? Even though the initial wave started at 10, and the participant guide (which needed a lot of improvements) said all waves start at 7 and that you needed to be in your corral by 6:45, we knew that it wasn't the case. With so many corrals (through O) and 4 minutes between each corral, we knew we had time. Turned out the White wave weren't even starting to go until 7:45. Ugh. So that was frustrating as I was running back and forth from the car, getting attitude from workers, and still had plenty of time to stand around waiting to start.

Love this statue.

The staging area was hectic. Crowded. I personally was not a fan of starting inside. While it was cool to be inside the stadium (where some might have been able to utilize indoor plumbing), it seemed too difficult to fit all of the runners and corrals. The White Wave had to line up on level 1 and then once all of the Red Wave had gone through, go down the stairs and line up there. I heard from those in the front corrals and the middle corrals that it was too crowded and disorganized. It was nice when it was outside because each Wave had it's own area and could start from there. More room and seemed less crowded. I missed the opening pre-race ceremonies because of the hydration pack issues, but I heard that was really nice with the Folds of Honor founder giving a speech and reading names of deceased military members whose family would benefit from the race (you can read more about Folds of Honor here, and Salute Inc (the other charity) here. I'm guessing they had wanted to start indoors to up the 'cool' factor of the race + being able to use the jumbotron for pre-race stuff.

Headed to the finish.

At the start, the waves were at a bottle neck to cross the mat and then it was congested and crowded with a narrow course until right before the McCormick Place tunnel. You actually barely ran on the field to start, and the reason I mostly disliked it was because I felt it took away from finishing on the field... like you were already there this morning, and it took away some of the excitement for me. I could be in the very few thinking this way, but we are all allowed our own opinions, right?

I didn't notice a mile marker for 1, which for me hit just before exiting the tunnel. Two and the 5k hit on my watch right at the markers. Four didn't come until my watch said 4.5, so I knew that was off. My watch is usually off a bit, as is everyone's, but an entire half mile after being dead on just wasn't right. Others reported the same thing. I believe 5 was off too, but then I sort of stopped paying attention to the markers, knowing my watch was fairly accurate. Also of note was there were no clocks, which seemed odd.

There were I think 4 or 5 aid stations. Nuun first, water second. I always tool the water, but could have used the electrolytes. I just can't stomach the new Nuun formula, so had to pass on it. Aid stations were well-stocked with water and Nuun, had portapotties, and plenty of volunteers passing out the paper cups. 

Headed into the finish!

I like the first half of the race being on a wider course (on what I call inside LSD, I'm not sure what the street is actually called), and then around mile 5 you hit the turn around. They had a course marshall there, DJ, and a nice ramp to get up the curb and onto the grass, cross over onto the LFP headed back north.

I love the views running on the LFP going north – seeing the skyline is cool. Running-wise, though hot, my mom and I were doing ok. I was going to split off from her at the turn around, but decided stick with her. I was pretty hot and didn't want to push too much. We were running 45/45 intervals.

Up comes my next issue, which has nothing to do with the race management, but etiquette and being polite. If you know me, I've been run/walking for a few years now. I have taken etiquette very seriously and am always aware of my surroundings before stopping. I raise my arm for a few seconds before I start to walk, I check behind both sides of me to make sure I won't be stopping in front of everyone, and when possible or needed, I move over to the right, again, making sure I am not interfering with anyone else. I've had a lot of close calls of running into others or tripping because others don't have the same courtesy. Around mile 7, we were coming to a walk, I checked to my right and moved over so runners and cyclists could pass on the left, and we stopped. A lady then yelled 'what was that?'. Assuming she wanted to know what raising our hands meant, I said that it meant we were coming to a walk, and before I could finish she yells at us for supposedly stopping right in front of her. 

I love running friends.

On a normal day, I might just say sorry even though I knew it wasn't true. But I'll be honest, I was pretty sore about not having my pack and my hand was getting sore from carrying my phone for 7 miles, so I just had to say back (aka I really just should have let it go), I checked behind me and you weren't there, so I know we didn't. I also mentioned (I don't yell and have a quiet voice in the first place) that walkers go to the right and runners go on the left to pass, so we were following etiquette rules. She said things back which I don't remember, but I'll say this – I was bonking at that point, and that exchange made me mad and gave me strength again haha. 

We sped past her the next run never to see her again. So I guess I should say thanks. Honestly, it just really upset me because I work so hard not to be in anyone else way or to disturb other runners. I know how annoying that can be, it's happened to me, and I try SO hard to do the right thing always. Etiquette and being polite and cheering on other runners. I heard her a briefly after quite loudly telling not one group, but two in the span of a just a few short minutes, how we stopped right in front of her, and did anyone see it? And I was like we didn't. We didn't. And another lady ran by us as I complained to my mom about the ordeal that we were fine and not to worry about her. I appreciated that. But seriously, how rude to be going up to everyone saying that?! I wanted to be like look, put your bib on the front as per race rules and get over it. We stopped behind other runners, not right in front of her, and she was going to need to go left anyway to pass. If she thinks we stopped in front of her, I'd hate to see what she would do when someone actually does it. Woof. I know I went on a rant here, but seriously, can you tell how upsetting that was for me?

Post-race Party area.

Anyway haha - I'm sorry about that. Now for my favorite part of this years race. Around mile 8.5 another runner that mom and I had been doing the back and forth with asked us what intervals we were doing and if she could join us, I said of course. We chatted a bit, not a ton as we were all getting pretty tired, but she had started off doing like 7 minutes running, 1 walking, but kept bringing that down. It wasn't her first race, but I think first 10 miler and first Soldier Field 10 Mile. Around mile 9 she said she wanted to beat 2:30. I looked at my watch and said you'll get that for sure. Helping to pace someone to the finish gave me more energy again, as I wanted to help her and my mom stay strong for one more mile. We picked up one more runner on our way, too. She said I'm just gonna crash the party here, and I said please do! The more the merrier. She hadn't run this race in a few years, and is running Chicago in October, so was doing the race to gauge where she was at with her running.

For real - someone help me find her :)
Can't seem to find the full results, only top 10 for each age group and myslef...

And so we had a little group of 4 of us. I did my best to count down for running and walking, and saying as loud as I could 'running' or 'walking' and it seemed to help everyone. I tired to say encouraging things like 'stay strong' and 'you've got this' or 'deep breaths'. I hope it was helpful. I've never really helped pace anyone, not that  I am a steady pace or anything, but to help encourage them to get through the last tough mile was so rewarding, especially after my tough morning. Three of us crossed the finish line together (I told her she could run ahead, because we go off intervals right before the finish line for an extra walk for a final deep breath and then to run into the finish strong, but she wanted to stay with us – she was so sweet), while the other runner wasn't too far behind. Close enough that I could high five them all still on the field before grabbing our medals. i was so proud of everyone and it really made me smile and appreciate the running community, because as a whole, everyone rocks my socks. There's always going to be a few grumpy gusses out there, but we need to ignore them and push on through.

My friend Heather, who I was hoping to run with (she was going to take it easy due to injury, and her easy is my tougher pace, so thought it would be fun), but she ended up starting in her actual corral haha, waited for me at the finish line and snapped a fun photo. She saw me running south while she was on her way back to the stadium, and though there was quite the distance between the two paths, she screamed loud enough for me to hear her. She's so fun and encouraging.

We all took some photos, I thanked all of the service men and women handing out medals, grabbed a bottle of water, and then we headed out to get our food. They had cups of Nuun right outside the field area, and then you walked a bit to grab your bag of snacks which included: mini Rice Krispy Treat, Mini Pretzels, Dole fruit cups (plastic spoon included), Clif Protein bar, and Pirocrisp. We chatted with Heather and her friend for a while, snapped some photos, and then went to check out the after party briefly.

Outside in the party area (the green outside the stadium) had some vendors, you could grab a Budweiser with a ticket from your bib and buy more after that (no thank you – I tried to give my ticket away and no one wanted it), and there was a food station, but not sure what they were selling - hot dogs maybe? There was a live band and what's great about this race is that a lot of runners stick around after. Being on the slower end, a lot of after parties are dead by the time I'm done, so it's nice to see one still going when I finish haha. Clif was handing out their Shot Bloks, but other than that we were all tired and decided to call it a day. 

BibRave Pros!

Right before heading out BibRave Pro Mary Jo spotted me. It was so great to meet her in person! I didn't know if we'd see each other at all, as a lot of faster runners had left already. I'm glad she saw my orange tank and came over to say hi! You never know with a crowd that large if you'll find who you're looking for, so we got lucky.

So yes, this year I was a bit disappointed in race management. I don't feel like there was enough information given or emails with instructions received as I'm as custom to getting with a RAM Racing event. They are usually on top of it, so was surprised there were so many hiccups. I am giving them more wiggle room, since it was their first year managing it, and hoping for improvements next year. If nothing else, I'll know ahead of time to ask them about hydration packs if it's not in the event guide and have proof for security if they give me a problem. 

They sent out a survey the next day for participants to fill out, which to me means they want to improve. They do with this all of their races, and usually I don't have much on the bad side to say, and have a lot of high marks for them, so it was tough for me to have to admit all of the issues I saw/experienced this year at this race, but being honest helps them to improve, and I know they take these surveys to heart. I've seen first hand the improvements on races over the years, so they do read and listen. My hopes are high for a better 2018 event.

quick guide to soldier field 10 mile

Disclaimer: I received entry for Soldier Field 10 Mile to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Me and Angie at the 2015 SF10.

Yesterday I wrote a bit about the Solider Field 10 Mile race and included some links to my reviews of the past few years. Thanks to Facebook Memories, I saw that 2014 was my first year running it, so this will be my fourth year. It has been confirmed haha.

Registration is still open, so head on over here and use code BibRaveSF1017 for this free water bottle.

Most of this information can also be found in the Participant Guide.

Packet pickup begins today at Fleet Feet Old Town from 3pm till 8pm and then Thursday and Friday from 10am till 8pm. There is NO race day packet pickup (this is a huge race, so that makes sense), so be sure to get to FF Old Town to grab yours. You can have a friend or family member grab it for you, if you are unable to attend – they just need a copy of your registration confirmation. Fave packets per person max. They had offered $15 packet mailing, but you would have needed to sign up for that three weeks (or more) prior to the race. Something to think about next year (or for other RAM Racing events). Note that they also had a packet pickup day at FF Deerfield on Thursday May 18 from 3–6pm and at FITT-RX on Saturday May 20 from 10am–3pm. They do a pretty good job of offering multiple days and times, which is appreciated.

The race takes place on May 27 at Soldier Field (duh) with multiple waves – red, blue, and white. Starting time is at 7am, but each wave will take some time to get through. I didn't start until 7:45 last year (last wave). They recommend an arrival time of 6am and getting into your corrals between 6am and 6:45am. 

Here's a map of the post-race party and corral staging. Post-race party begins at 8:30am (says inside Soldier Field, but the map shows it is on the outside grass) and will include music, food, and beer. Open to the public.

It looks like the starting line-up area is different than previous years, in which a lot of the line up, at least for the last wave, was on Waldron Dr. Here's the Course Map:

There will be gear check opening at 5:30am and closing promptly at 11am. It will be located in the Stadium and you'll want to enter through Gate 0. Only registered participants can enter the gear check area, and your bib must be clearly visible. All bags will be searched prior to entry into this area and you MUST use the 12"x18" clear plastic bag and beaded luggage tie provided to you during packet pickup. 

Aid stations will be stocked with water and Nuun. Port-o-johns will be located at the start/finish area and at the aid stations. Looking at the map, it looks like there will be 5 aid stations located around miles 1.75, 3.5, 5.25, 6.75, and 8.75 (these are just my guesses looking at the map, but gives you sense). Plenty for a 10 mile race.

Have a runner you want to track? Sign up for tracking updates here.

Pacers:

As an added benefit to the participants of the Fleet Feet Sports Soldier Field 10 Mile, there will be event pace groups lead by the experienced Chicago Endurance Sports Pace Team. The Pace Team provides even splits and camaraderie amongst runners striving to reach similar goals. These pacers support a wide range of runners, from those finishing their first 10 mile race to those who are looking for a new PR. Pace groups will be available at the following paces per mile: 7:30, 8:00, 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30 and 15:00. In addition, we will offer three pace groups that will do a combination of running and walking. The first will be at a 11:30 run pace (5min run/1min walk). The second is at a 12 minute run pace (5min run/1min walk). The third will be at a 12:30 pace (4min run/2min walk). To learn more about Chicago Endurance Sports and the wide variety of training programs they offer, visit ChicagoEnduranceSports.com.

Parking:

Volunteers, participants and spectators can park in the Waldron Garage and South Lot starting at 3:30am or the North Garage, starting at 4:30am. Entrances are marked on the Parking Map. Follow the direction of parking officials. Parking is complimentary until 7:30am or once the lots are full, whichever occurs first. Should lots fill before 7:30am, vehicles will be directed to remote parking locations. After 7:30am, normal parking rates apply; payment will be required as you enter. In order to ensure that you have a relaxed and enjoyable experience race morning, please plan to arrive at Soldier Field no later than 6:00am. The address of Soldier Field is 1410 S Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, IL 60605.

After the race, look for your FREE race photos. You'll receive an email with your free pictures that you can share on Facebook, Twitter, or download/print it. Gotta love free photos!

Charities:

Soldier Field 10 Mile is proud to support Folds of Honor as our national charity, and SALUTE, INC. as the local charity of the Soldier Field 10 Mile!

Folds of Honor

Since 2007, Folds of Honor has pursued their mission to stand in the financial gap of the more than one million dependents adversely affected by war, providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of those killed or disabled while serving our nation. They strive to embody the words of their motto: Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy.

Their logo embodies the heavy price our troops pay for the freedoms we hold dear. Yet it’s also a symbol of hope, representing the enduring ideals that make this country a beacon of democracy. The 13 folds in a flag presented at a military funeral honor the sacrifice of America’s heroes, while giving hope to the bearers of their legacy. This folded flag is a constant reminder of those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. It inspires us to help equip and educate their loved ones in need of our support.

For more information, please visit https://www.foldsofhonor.org.

SALUTE, INC.

SALUTE, INC. passionately pursues meeting the financial, physical and emotional needs of military service members, veterans and their families. SALUTE, INC. strives to raise awareness of their sacrifices and provides a safety net to ensure every military family is treated with honor and dignity. For more information, please visit http://www.saluteinc.org.

So tell me - who's ready to race? Normally they have members of the military handing out the medals, which is a special moment, especially being Memorial Day Weekend. Be sure to thank them for their service.

up next: soldier field 10 mile

Disclaimer: I received entry for Soldier Field 10 Mile to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

My next two races are this weekend. No, I don't take breaks haha. On Saturday I'll be heading to Soldier Field for my fourth or fifth year of the Soldier Field 10 Mile and on Monday I'll be running the Ridge Run 5k. Is it sad that I can't remember how many years I've been doing races? I don't keep a very good 'record' book, and I only started using BibRave to review the races since 2014, so anything before that is ?? haha. I know a lot of people know exactly how many of each race they've done. The only one I know for sure if my marathon total. Maybe one day I'll find the time to go back and tally it all up.

Registration for SF10 is still open, but not for much longer. Use code BibRaveSF1017 to receive this water bottle for free (you'll get it at packet pickup).

Here's the 2017 Goodie Bag (shirt and finisher medal):

All finishers will receive a Soldier Field 10 Mile medal to commemorate their achievement! The triangles of stars surrounding the Chicago star signify the folded flag placed on the casket of deceased veterans, to honor the memory of their service to our country. The tri-folded flag is an emblem of the hat worn by the Patriots of the American Revolution.

I love this race because it's a unique distance. There aren't a ton of 10 mile options, versus the amount of 5k, 10k, and halfs in the area. Another really cool thing is that you get to finish on Soldier Field at the 50 yard line. Last year was messed up a bit because Beyonce was in town and so the field was covered up with that metal concert platform they put on the fields to prevent them from getting ruined. Do you know what I'm talking about? Anyway - looks like this year should be back to normal.

I haven't decided yet whether I'll run with my mom or run on my own with my usual intervals and see how the legs do. Sometimes I start off of my own, and then I poop out and my mom catches up and I run with her till the finish. I'll definitely be running with her on Monday; it's our tradition. And weather is usually crazy hot and humid, and I don't have the energy to push through that haha.

Check out my BibRave Reviews from 2016, 2015, and 2014.
OR my blog recaps:2015, 2014. Apparently I never wrote my blog recap from 2016 because I didn't run it through BibRave. Typical me – I can never keep up with my blog recaps {eye roll}. I know I had a great time last year because Angie and Josh were in town! We hung out after the race for a bit.

I might need to squeeze in some extra miles the next week so I can hit my 100 mile goal for every month of 2017. I'm a little behind (I don't know how, I feel like I've been running a ton, but I guess I did skip a few week day training runs due to travel/no time away from work/tired).

Anyone out there planning on running either of those races this weekend? Say hey if you see me :)

my spring goal race is over - now what?

Hello friends! My big goal race of the first half of the year is over and I've finally written all of my posts recapping the experience. If you're interested it's the Illinois Marathon expo + pasta feed, Illinois 5k, and Illinois Marathon. I was extremely pleased with how I did at the marathon – I beat my main goal by over 3 minutes when I wasn't sure I'd even hit my goal during the first half of the race (it was very windy and I just had a lot of doubts rolling through the brain). 

I'm not even sure I've fully processed it yet, as it's been a whirlwind since. The day after I 'ran' another half marathon (with shin pain half way through I pretty much walked the second half... slowly I might add), took a week off, and then was back at it with a half marathon the next weekend, and then a few days later I flew out to California for runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend, where I spent a lot of time on my feet at the expo, parks, running all three races, and what seems like hours spent in line for everything (purchases at expo, corrals, security, to get into parks, and then waiting for all of the rides). I had some sore feet, let me tell you.

Anyway, I have three more weekends of races and then will have a bit of a break in the summer (it gets too hot here, and with humidity (I get sick in that kind of weather) I only do a few races throughout the months rather than every weekend haha).

Upcoming races include:
Chicago Spring Half Marathon on 5/21 (use code BRCHI17 for $10 off) 
Soldier Field 10 Mile on 5/27 (use code BibRaveSF1017 for a free water bottle)
Ridge Run 5k on 5/29
North Shore Classic Half Marathon on 6/4 (use code BibRaveNSC17 for a free water bottle)
Chicago Bears 5k on 6/24
Rock n Roll Chicago 5k on 7/15 
Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon on 7/16 (use code BIBRAVE15 for $15 off half valid until 7/9)
Burgers and Beer 5k on 7/17
BTN Big 10k on 7/23 (use code BibRaveBTN17 for a free water bottle)
Chicago Half Marathon on 9/24

Ok, so maybe more races than I let on haha, but it's not EVERY weekend like this past month has been so it seems like less to me.

Those races will be for fun. I never push too hard during RnR weekend because it's usually 90 degrees and 100% humidity. Ick. I'm supposed to be in recovery mode, and instead of short miles on the weekend, I'm running half marathons. So far my body is holding up, but I think not pushing too much is the key. Not running for PRs here, and for runDisney I ran with my mom and we stopped for photos.

So other than these fun races I'll be doing, what else is on the agenda? Well, my next big goal race is Chicago Marathon. I'd REALLY like to get under 6 hours. I'll have to shave off 6 minutes from my current PR, and about 16 minutes from last year's finish time. I think it's doable, but closer to race day I'll talk strategy and finish times with my coach and see what he thinks is realistic. Training should start up next month I think.

I wasn't great about keeping up with my hydration game during vacation (I mean, I can only buy so many bottles of $3 waters), so my goal for the rest of the month is to get back to where I was before the marathon and drinking at least 64oz of water a day. I should be drinking more based on my weight, however, getting to 64 is a big deal for me, as I used to probably only drink 20oz a day. Once I can hit 64 consistently, I'll try upping it. 

Another thing I need to start focusing on again is strength training. I haven't been doing a great job with that in a while, and I need to get back in the habit. Not only to strengthen the muscles I need for running and to stay injury-free, but I also would love to lose some body fat. Going along with this, I want to focus more on my nutrition. I need to get back in the habit of weighing and tracking all of my food to make sure I'm getting the nutrients I need and not too much sugar/unhealthy fats. This is tough for me, as I absolutely love unhealthy foods. I don't drink as much beer as I used to, but I certainly enjoy it so that can add up to. I hate tracking it all, but I know it's the best way to be conscious of what I'm putting in my body and how much of it.

Do you set different goals throughout the year or have a few that you maintain all year round? I tend to need to re-evalutate throughout the year to help keep me focused. What are you hoping to achieve the second half of 2017? I know we are still in May, but with my goal race over, it was time to look again and see what I wanted to do for the rest of the year (besides having fun, of course).

chicago marathon training: week 2

Week 2 of Chicago Marathon Training
Monday, May 23: Strength Training Week 5, workout 1
Tuesday, May 24: United Relay 5k - Group Stage 318
Wednesday, May 25: Strength Training Week 5, workout 2
Thursday, May 26: Medium run, 8 miles at CP; 1:49:56
Friday, May 27: Medium run, 6 miles at CP;  1:23:53
Saturday, May 28: Soldier Field 10 Mile; (10.10 via Garmin) 2:25:23
Sunday, May 29: Rest Day

Week Total Mileage: 27.69 
Marathon Training Mileage: 56.14
YTD: 426.32

This was a super busy, fun week as far as running goes (and work too, but that's not always as fun). 

My coach from Sweat Tracker was actually in town for a conference, so Monday night I went into the city to have dinner with her. It was so great to meet her in person. We talked running, upcoming strategies, and life. I feel like having met in person we have strengthened our bond as coach/running student and it's awesome. Something about talking with someone face-to-face adds to the relationship (duh). Also, she agreed to meet for pizza, so I mean... she's super cool.

Coach Val and I at Gino's East :)

Two days after running the Chicago Spring Half Marathon, I was back where that finished at The Park at Lakeshore East to take part in the United Relay Group Stage 5k. Little did I know I'd make some new, awesome friends and have a BLAST. 

I'll have a blog recap soon about the Relay, but you can read my initial post on it when I first registered if you're interested in reading what it was all about. 

It turned into a very laid back 5k, as about half way through we decided to stop and take photos, meet up with some of the other runners, and then stopped for group photos by Buckingham Fountain... and then walked back to the park. The crew had some time to kill, knowing that some of the legs coming up were cycling, so time would be made up then. Seriously, I had so so so much fun and really look forward to running again next year (and hopefully being available to do more legs!). Here's my BibRave review.

So much fun at the United Relay of America Chicago Group Stage!

Strength training has been getting tougher each week, naturally. It takes longer to complete each workout, approximately 30 minutes as apposed to the beginning few weeks which were about 15–20 — this is of course when you are beginning to learn all of the different exercises, and then as weeks progress you up the reps and add in advanced forms. I never though I could sweat so much using nothing but my body weight and occasionally a medicine ball or small weights. I'm going to be honest with you. I have very weak arms (part of the reason strength training was needed — I think you remember I've also mentioned my weak core haha). Anyway, I'd been using 3 pound weights when weights were needed, and a 5 pound medicine ball. I attempted 5 pound weights this week, and let me tell you. OW. After about 15 reps my arms were killing me. Maybe I need more time before jumping up more... :-/ (embarrassing!).

Thursday was a medium run with 8 miles. I ended with an average pace of 13:44. Not horrible for that distance, for me. I'm still trying to get used to this summer weather... it could take all summer haha.The humidity is just so draining — dehydrating you no matter how much water/electrolytes you're drinking and your body can't cool off because the sweat doesn't evaporate. Woof.

Thursday I also headed to Fleet Feet Chicago to grab packets for the Soldier Field 10 Mile on Saturday. While there, I grabbed some new gear (sports bras and shorts) while they were having a sale, and my pal Mike helped fit me for some new shoes. I love my Nike Lunarglide, but I needed another shoe to alternate with when I have back to back runs. While I could probably get away with more Lunarglide, I thought I'd give another style a shot. I ended with the New Balance Vongos. I'll keep you updated on how those go. For now, I'll just be wearing them for errands and walking, then some short runs to break them in.

Friday was a 6 mile day. I had a 13:59 pace on this run. I was not feeling the heat and was feeling so drained early on. I walked the last half mile of this run because I was starting to feel sick, but I refused to not get in my 6 miles.

Saturday was race day! I had a BLAST meeting up with so many friends at this race — Angie, Josh, Rachel and her husband Mike, Eric, and Jacob. We took some fun photos (naturally), and all headed our separate ways for race time. I'll have a full recap eventually (I have so many to catch up on), but it was fun. In the meantime you can read my BibRave review. Mom and I ran/walked 30/90 intervals. Again, the heat was not my friend come mile 6ish, but we kept on truckin'.

Two of my best buds - Josh and Angie.

Sunday was a welcomed rest day. I had the whole day free, and though my intentions were to do laundry and cleaning, my husband convinced me it was worth skipping to sit outside with the dogs on our back porch. It was warm out, but in the shade it was lovely because there was a breeze. Though some pesky bees kept bothering us (and our dogs attempting to eat said bees), it was nice to just relax for once. We shared some new brews and chatted.

I hope you guys don't mind my week in review gets written nearly a week after the fact haha. I've been busy with work and running and life in general, so it's just the way it is ;)

How is your training going? What's your big upcoming race?

soldier field 10 mile recap

Disclaimer: I received a free entry into Soldier Field 10 Mile to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Pre-Race Shot taken inside the stadium.

I raced Fleet Feet Sports Soldier Field 10 Mile in 2014 as a last minute decision. I believe I registered the week of the race, and boy was I glad I did. Not only was the SWAG awesome, runners had the chance to actually RUN on Soldier Field and Finish on the 50 yard line. You can read about my experience here.

When I was given the opportunity to race this year through the BibRave Ambassador program, I was STOKED. I was planning on registering again, so it made it all the better.

T-shirts.

Finisher Medal.

They had multiple days for packet pick-up, including new for 2015 locations in the suburbs (Deerfield, Naperville, and Oak Park), and then Fleet Feet Old Town from Tuesday–Friday 10am–8pm.

I went to Old Town on Thursday around 11am. I parked in the Piper Alley parking garage, and Fleet Feet validated for me, so it was free. I love that they have the bib pickup in the lobby area of the building, then have you to through the back of the store to grab your shirt. It wasn't crowded when I went, but I imagine it really helped cut back congestion when it was (the packet pickup I did the week before had bibs and shirts in the back of the store, and I felt a bit claustrophobic when I was there during a Saturday morning).

Another great thing is that they allow friends and family to pick up packets for you. Pro Angie and her husband Josh weren't going to be able to make it to pickup on time Friday night, so I was able to pickup for them. All I needed was their bib confirmation email and a 'note' stating that they were giving me permission. There was also the option for Race Day Will-Call Packet Pickup, which was $15.

Communication prior to the event was great. Plenty of emails (but not annoyingly so) with the details of the race, packet pickup, tailgate party, parking, etc were included, so it made everything easier.

SF10 was held on Saturday, May 23. We really lucked out with some gorgeous spring/summer weather and mostly sunny skies (though I will admit I prefer more clouds and a bit cooler haha). It was on the mid-50s to start, and I think got up to the low- to mid-70s by the time the post-race party finished around 11:30.

Parking was free and was supposed to be available at the South Lot, Waldren Deck and the North Lot. However, when I got there around 5:55, they had the exit ramp to the South Lot/Waldren closed. I was a bit cramped for time, as I was supposed to meet the BibRave gang around 6/6:15 for photos and to give Angie and Josh their bibs. So that was a little annoying, plus I prefer to park on the South end, buuuuut parking was free, so I'm not going to complain that much. I finally met up with them at about 6:30ish. Luckily, it was still enough time to chat a little, and Josh made it into his corral (2) on time before they closed it off (6:45).

The BibRave Gang! So great to see you all (most)!
Photo courtesy of Angie.

There was gear check, but I didn't need to utilize this. I do know that you had to use the clear bag given at packet pickup for gear check, though. I did love that the bathrooms inside were open for use. No port potty, and no line!

Clearly marked corrals with countdown till closing clocks.

There were 4 different corral colors - Purple, Blue, Orange, and Green - for 16 different waves. The Purple and Blue closed at 6:45, Orange at 7:15, and 7:30 for the Green. Mom and I were in the second to last wave - 15.

My KT Taped and wrapped knee, Zensah sleeves and
Mizuno Wave Rider 18!

I had a leg injury which prevented me from doing my best, but I was able to hang with my mom the whole race, which is always fun. She was nice enough to slow down for me.

My view waiting in my corral.

At the start line.

There were plenty of aid stations on course, a total of 5, which were stocked with both Gatorade and Water - each in different cups. Gatorade was first, water was second. All of the volunteers with energetic and polite. I was with the back of the pack gang, and the aid stations were still well manned and none were broken down or lacking in either refreshment. 

The race is a bit congested at the beginning, as you are running on smaller streets, until you go under McCormick Place and onto Lake Shore Drive where it widens and the crowd can spread out. Headed south isn't the most exciting route, but there was some entertainment (school marching band) and a DJ at the turnaround at about mile 5.5.

The course narrows again when you get on the lakefront path going north to Soldier Field, but generally I didn't have any problems with getting around people when I needed to.

Great view of the Chicago skyline!

We passed the cutest older man running the race around mile 6, and thankfully was able to watch him go towards the finish while I was in the tail-gate party. He was inspiring.

It's a great view going north with the skyline, lake, and then after while passing McCormick Place, Soldier Field comes back into view. The last .5 mile of the race is the best. There are people cheering for you, your name gets called, and then you run into the underbelly of the stadium... just a little more... and you are ON THE FIELD, with a finish on the 50 yard line. It is very exciting to be out there, in my opinion.

I also used the Motigo App while running, and got 2 cheers, which always gives me more kick in my step. If you don't know what it is, look into it, and come back here for a review in the next few days :)

Active military men and women are handing out the medals and bottles of water. Obviously had to thank them all for their service. It's an honor to get a medal placed on me by an active military member. Then I heard from behind 'Hey, BibRave - are we getting good review?' and I turn around to see a man walking towards me. After having running brain, I completely missed asking for his name, but I let him know I thought it was a great race again this year. It is extremely well organized and executed nearly to perfection. I loved this race in 2014, and I loved it again in 2015. Yes, the free entry was great, but it doesn't sway my opinion. I would have raced this year even if I had to pay, that's how much I enjoy it. He also mentioned that I needed more sunscreen during the race... yep, I got sunburn! Story of my pale-skinned life.

After finishing.

After a few quick photos mom and I walked off the field, got a cup of Gatorade, and made our way outside where we received the Refresh bag - - an awesome perk for the race. Inside was a banana, fruit snacks, pretzels, Skinny Pop popcorn, a Clif bar (trail mix), and Lemonheads. They give you some of the best (and higher quantity) snacks post race.

I headed on over to the icing station and got my leg wrapped with ice. The guy who wrapped my leg was very nice, and did a great job getting the ice to stay on my leg (they use saran wrap, which works great at keeping it in place, even when I was walking). 

Someone mentioned donuts, and I was so excited thinking they had some.
What a disappointment haha.

On our way to the tailgate party, I grabbed a Dunkin Donuts Iced Coffee sample, and saw there was also bottles of Muscle Milk and samples of Naked juices. I headed for the beer and got the last 312 Urban Wheat. Whoooo! Thank you Fleet Feet, for providing a tastier beer than most other races... and one that is based in Chicago (or at least used to be... I don't think 312 is made here anymore, but plenty of others from GI are).

We finally met up with Josh and Angie to chat and hang out. We cheered on some of the final runners from inside the party (we could see them on course and cheered them on just a bit before turning into the stadium). The great thing about the course is that once you make it to mile 5.5, you're on the LFP, so you are still able to finish if you are a bit slower. I think they allowed finishers who were past the pacing requirement, which I think is lovely.

The Tailgate party had a band, beer, and I think even some food. We sat on the hill and caught up, discussed the race and other races, and then were asked to leave at 11:30 - closing time.

In our rush to get out of the parking lot and meet up with the gang, neither my mom or I paid much attention to where we parked. And so, with Josh and Angie in tow, we went searching. Originally we were on the right level, but somehow missed the car, and tried the other levels. Finally went back to the original level where we found it - oops. I gave Josh and Angie their shirts, and we said our goodbyes - until October!

I will definitely be doing this race again next year! You can read my BibRave review here or all of them here.

Check out Angie's recap here and Kim's here (she's the one I missed seeing pre-race, was so bummed!).