Race Recap: Holiday Half Marathon

Holiday Half Marathon & 5K

December 12 - 13, 2015 | Pomona, CA

The Holiday Half Marathon weekend offers all kinds of races - 5K, kids' Penguin Waddle, and half marathon. You can earn the Golden Snowflake Challenge medal for completing the 5K and half back-to-back, in addition to earning legacy medals, which might be a new goal just because they're so freaking adorable (3+ years is a new and bigger penguin ever year, culminating in year 10 with an emperor penguin medal). I was doing the challenge, because of course, and convinced Doug to run the 5K with me. 

Holiday 5K - Saturday, December 12

The only downside to this race is that there is no expo prior to the race. Packet pick up begins Saturday morning. Doug and I were at the Fairplex about 7:40 for an 8:30 am race start. The lines were crazy - semi-organized, but crazy. They were divided up by bib number and mine seemed to be the second longest out there. A lady behind me finally ducked into the (empty) line next to ours which was technically for the next set of bib numbers and she walked away with her bib and encouraged me to do the same. So I did - easy peasy. 

After being on the couch all last week because I pulled a muscle in my back (no fun, I tell ya what), I decided I wanted to run the 5K super easy and just have a great time. Doug decided to hang with me and make this a funner run rather than going all out. I almost wish I had gone all out because the course is flat as flat gets and is major PR-friendly (assuming you start in the front to beat the congestion). 

We jogged, got frustrated in the crowds and fought through when we could. Saw tons of friends, ran with Charlotte some too! (Major photo props to her!) By far the coolest part of the race (even for a girl who knows nothing about racing) was running up the drag strip on the west side of the fairgrounds. Doug got to teach me things and tell me what this racing ish is all about. I'm still not sure I know. 

And just like that, 3.11 miles were up! Seriously, that may have been the fastest (slowest) 5K ever, but I guess that speaks to how much freaking fun we had. I love getting to run with Doug and getting to talk the whole way, wave and say hi to friends that were cheering or running by was just the icing on the cake. 

Super fun snowflake medals don't hurt either.

Holiday Half Marathon - Sunday, December 13

Sunday morning was half marathon morning. I told Doug to stay in bed and sleep in (aren't I nice?) and I headed out the door about 6:50 to get to the Fairplex and make the walk to the start area. Our ambassador team was finally all meeting in one place (minues one) so we needed to make it an epic holiday-infused photo. I think we win.

Me, Sarah, Richard, Tam and Charlotte.

With my back being the way it was (and despite feeling 100% after the 5K and feeling fine Sunday morning), I was still a little nervous for how it would act after (or during) 13 miles. I lined up with the 1:55 pacer and decided I'd hang there as long as I could and see what I could do with it. Miraculously, my Garmin did not die at the start line and I actually had a watch! Win. Early on, I caught Linzie and hung with him for a bit. We kinda ran with 1:55 dude but knew early on that this guy was in for trouble. A 1:55 finish is about an 8:45 pace, so tell me why his first mile was 8:08? Whoa, buddy. You can see my final splits for how all-over-the-place this guy was:

Linzie and I started kinda of self-pacing to keep a little more consistency but stuck tight to the pacer just a bit ahead of us. The 2:00 pacer was also just yards behind us, so we knew somebody somewhere (or both of them!) were way off. 

The course starts out pretty flat, mostly follows the 5K route with some slight diversions in the first mile. Back up the drag strip from the 5K, a U-turn and back down, and then out the west side of the fairgrounds to head into Bonelli Park and Lake Puddingstone. Bonelli had some good rolling hills - not sharp inclines, but good rollers to keep your pace in check. Running along the roads with incredible views of the lake on such a perfectly gorgeous morning really made me appreciate all the places there are run to Southern California! What a treat. 

The 1:55 group was still in clear sight until about mile 7. I walked about 10 yards at mile 7 just to recollect and stretch and kept trucking. As you can tell from my splits, I was actually still maintaining a really great pace overall and was pleased. About mile 9.5, the last good incline, my back totally flared up and I walked almost the whole hill. Naturally, this guy then catches up to me and tells me to get movin' - so I did. And then at 10.5, my stomach totally flared up and all I could think about were the portos at mile 12, back on the drag strip. Just keep moving... 

Keep moving, keep moving. And then, of course, the portos at mile 12 are in the opposite direction that we turn from and at that point, I thought Screw it. Just get the last mile done! I caught up to a girl who had started with the 1:55 pacer and who had been leap-frogging with me all morning. We talked a bit and she was close to a PR (1:57) and I told her that if she just hung on, she'd have it in the bag. She helped me pass mile 12 real fast and before I knew it, I was kicking up to the finish for a solid 1:58:16 finish. More than stoked.

I collected my bling, and then went and collected my bonus bling for a clangin', racket of a good time walking around afterwards! 

A great morning indeed.

Race Pros:

- Course (challenging but it won't kill ya)

- Awesome, awesome bling

- Ugly sweater tech shirts are going to be hard to beat!

- Great race amenities (beer garden, vendors, races, Toys for Tots drive)

- Volunteers

Race Cons:

- Only morning pick up on Saturday rather than a Friday night option

- More restrooms needed on course (outside Bonelli) 

No major complaints from me in the slightest. This is easily one of my new favorite races in Southern California. The course is beautiful - albeit a little tough - but the environment itself just warrants all kinds of holiday spirit! So much to love and a race I definitely recommend you doing at least once. 

Do you get in the holiday spirit because of a race?

I served as an ambassador for this race through parent company Run Racing, also owners of Long Beach. I was provided an entry to the entire challenge free of charge. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own. 

Holiday Gift Guide 2015 | Runner Essentials

I love partnering up with other ambassadors and community members to share some of their favorites! I've got some great stuff all week, so make sure you keep checking back for some awesome gift guides from folks all across the interwebz! First up, Tam, a fellow Long Beach and Holiday Half ambassador that shares the Southern California sunshine with me! 

Holiday Gift Guide: Running Gear

I’m excited to be part of this holiday gift guide collaboration post (Thank you, Megan!) and give you the best running gear gift ideas for the runner in your life (or for yourself!) Every runner wants to look good when they run. When you look good, you feel good! Here are some ideas, from head to toe, to look good, recover well and be inspired!

Disclaimer: I am an ambassador for INKnBURN, Orange Mud and Momentum Jewelry. As always, all opinions are my own. I will get affiliate credit for Orange Mud and Momentum Jewelry, if you use my link and discount. Thank you!

1) Technical Trucker Hat by BOCO Gear and BIC Bands ($26.00)
My new favorite trucker hat is by BOCO Gear. BOCO makes technical trucker hats and BIC Bands partnered with BOCO to make an exclusive line. I love the California Run hat in aqua and black. BIC Bands also makes my favorite non-slip headbands. The best part about BIC Bands is that Sandy, the owner, started Because I Can Bands as a fundraiser for Team in Training. Her bands were such a hit that she continued making, selling and giving back. In the last 2 years, BIC Bands has donated over $30,000 to various charities. Amazing!

Use code: GoodGift to save 20% off any purchase!

     
2) Orange Mud Buff ($19.95) 

The Orange Mud Buff, made by Original Buff, can be worn 12+ ways. It’s soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. It keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. I love it to keep my neck warm for a cold morning run or after a run as a headband.

My 10% discount code: TAMPEEPS

3) Orange Mud Challenge Headband ($9.95)
The Challenge Headband is a perfect stocking stuffer! It’s great for guys and girls. Sport this headband after a run. You can change buy additional patches for $3.95 and replace the one it comes with to show what you’ve accomplished! I love headbands and this one is very comfy and doesn’t move.

My 10% discount code: TAMPEEPS

4) Moving Comfort Juno Sports Bra ($60)
Moving Comfort is my favorite sports bra and I love the Juno design. This bra gives you shape, support and fits well. It doesn’t chafe (unless you’ve had it too long) and it’s very breathable.

5) INKnBURN gear ($40 - $100)
I have been wearing INKnBURN for several years now and I just love it. INKnBURN is art on apparel and is made so you’ll stand out in the crowd. I love that INKnBURN is a small company located in Southern California, owned by Rob and Megan Tsuyuki. The art is applied by hand to each panel of the performance fabric before sewing. For one shirt, that’s 6 pieces of fabric! Afterward, a process of heat and pressure allows the art to stain the fibers of the fabric. The art will not fade, crack nor peel and will stay silky cool. You never look like you’re sweating, even on the hottest days! Limited quantities of each design are made so get it while you can. You’ll look good and feel good in INKnBURN!

6) Balega Hidden Comfort Socks ($12)
Balega makes the best socks and I love the Hidden Comfort design. I’ve worn these socks for years. They have a low profile so your sock tan won’t be too bad!  It has enough cushion at the sole for extra protection and the heel tab helps prevent the sock from slipping into your shoe. It fits well and is very comfortable. It comes in many colors and can be found at any running store or online.

7) OOFOS OOriginal ($44.95)

You work hard on the road or trails, and you need to recover well, too. As soon as I’m done with a run, the first thing I want to do is change into something more comfortable. OOFOS recovery footwear is perfect for after a long run or a long day on your feet. The OOriginal is the most popular shoe although they also have a sport sandal and clog, for women and men. These recovery shoes are designed to absorb impact, cradle your arches and help your feet move naturally.

8) Orange Mud Super Soft Everyday Shirt ($26.95)
Yep, another Orange Mud product but I really love their stuff! After a run, I always want to change into a nice, comfy t-shirt. My go-to shirt is the Orange Mud Super Soft Everyday Shirt. These shirts really are soft. They’re made of a pre-shrunk cotton, polyester and rayon tri-blend fabric. The sizes are unisex and great for guys and gals. Orange Mud is another small company I love, based out of Corona, CA. The owner, Josh, is an athlete and understands what athletes need. From tees to hydration packs to bags, Orange Mud will keep you fueled, organized and looking great!

My 10% discount code: TAMPEEPS

9) Pro Compression Socks ($50)
Continuing on the recovery track, every runner needs compression socks. Pro Compression Marathon Socks help you feel faster and recovery faster. I have many friends who wear these socks during a run. I wear mine after a run. Either way is great! These socks squeeze away fluids from your extremities toward your core and help promote healthy circulation while reducing inflammation and swelling. You can wear them when you’ll be on your feet all day or for traveling, too.

10) Momentum Jewelry ($10 - $28)
Every runner needs inspiration from time to time and Momentum Jewelry is the small reminder you need to keep you going. Momentum Jewelry owner, Amy, wanted to make fitness jewelry that you can wear while you work out. I wear the Motivate Wraps when I run or go to the gym. I wore “Believe, Endure, Achieve” when I ran my first 50k and it was the mantra that kept me going during tough moments. The Foot Notes are for your shoes. They always make me smile when I look down at my shoes, taking me one step closer to the finish line. There are suede and leather wraps and necklaces, too. You can personalize any of the pieces.

My 10% discount link: www.designsthatmoveyou.com/friend/tamara

I hope this guide will help you find the perfect item for the runner in your life (or for you!) Happy shopping and I hope you have a wonderful holiday!

Your path, your pace,
Tam

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So much love - I will totally vouch for a ton of these companies, too, and love Tam's picks! Make sure you grab some for your favorite runner for the holidays!

Make sure you follow Tam, too: Blog | Twitter | Instagram

Thank you, Tam!

Friday Favorites #7

I'm just all kinds of excited this Friday. There's so much fun stuff going on - despite me being down for the count all week with a pulled back muscle (boooo), the universe has done plenty to tell me it's sorry and that I'll be up and moving on soon!

1. Winner Winner, Chicken Dinner!
Dude. I scored all over the interwebz this week.

First, this:

I won an entry to Vacation Races' Lake Powell Half! I've wanted to run a VR event for forever, but have never been able to make any of them work, so I am WAY excited that I get to go run this one. It's not until next October, so unfortunately there's lots of waiting time, but squee! Excitement! With that, despite having lived in northern Arizona for three years, I've never actually been to Lake Powell. Double win.

And then the next day, this:

Two more wins! One from Michele's super fun training journal Instagram giveaway (because, you know, I train sometimes), and then even more fun from Carlee's #12DaysofCarleesChristmas giveaways (make sure you mozy on over to Carlee's page and maybe you can win some awesome stuff too!

2. Marathoning
Half marathons are my happy place. After LA this year, I was disappointed because I knew I had trained so much better than just a 6-minute PR. But race day changes everything and a heat index of 95+ doesn't bode well, no matter how hard you've trained.

I'm excited that I officially have two full marathons on the calendar in 2016 -- OC Marathon (May 1, I've been registered for a few weeks now) and, as of Tuesday, the California International Marathon (December 4).

CIM will be a running, girls' birthday weekend for our Ironwoman, Jacky, so we're all pretty stoked about this. So far there are at least four of us going along (Jacky, Monica, Sandy, me) and I'm pretty much giddy already. Let's hope training keeps me that giddy! 

I've got one more full I'm eye-balling in the spring, but more on that later... 

3. Ambassador Frenzy

In case I'm not an ambassdor for enough races (never enough, right?), but I've got some new exciting ones to add to my list! 

ZOOMA Women's Race Series is a small women-run race series that I actually ran in Georgia before they stopped doing their Atlanta event (sad face). It was actually my second half marathon ever! Now they're in Annapolis, Cape Cod, Florida, and have a trail race in Austin. But they're also adding a virtual Love Run race in 2016 to be done on Valentine's Day! Stoked for that and I'll have a discount code soon (registration just opened today, so don't freak out!). 

I'm also excited to be an ambassador for the OC Marathon, and since I'm running the full already anyway, you should be sure to come run with me! Please? I'll need a buddy for 26.2 miles! I don't have a discount code just yet, but you can still register and save some cash, and make sure you mention me for how you heard about this race! 

4. Gift Guides!

Next week, I've got tons of gift guides comin' atcha - books, runner accessories and swag and gear and all things for you yogis, too. My friends and fellow ambassdors Tam, Kasey and Kristen have all provided some really sweet gift lists for when you're most stuck for your fitness friends - we've got you covered! Don't worry!

Super excited about what's coming your way next week. Stay tuned!

Happy Friday! Exciting plans this weekend?

Friday Favorites #6

1. Cali Combo

Rock 'n Roll announced the re-design of the Cali Combo medal and I'm swooning over it hardcore. Check out this beauty:

You can earn this for running three of four races: San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, or Los Angeles. You might count me in for 2016...

2. 25 Days of Sparkly Soul

Um... heck yes! Sparkly Soul is bringing back their 25 days of SS love by doing a daily special all the days leading up to Christmas! This week has featured the silver headbands, neon pink and bows! I can't wait to see what else is in store and grab some stellar deals on my favorites - and for stocking stuffers!

3. Ugly Sweater Socks

ProCompression released their annual holiday sock yesterday morning and most sizes sold out in like, record time (think less than 3 hours for the S/M sizes) - holy whoa! Did you get your hands on some? I've got like four holiday races coming up and can't wait to see how many other people are rockin' 'em too! 

4. Demolishing Goals

I totally demolished my November goal of 115 miles and ran 123 instead. December's been off to a funky start, but if I run all the miles I've mapped out for December, I'll get my magic 1,000 on Christmas Day... Merry Christmas to me, right? My present to myself when I make it is a new, shiny Garmin and retiring my old girl that's well over three years old.

5. Demolishing More Goals!

Other goal I'm demolishing? Getting that credit card debt worked off. Tina would be so proud! My 2015 goal was to reduce it by half and I'm pretty sure I've reduced it by nearly 75% and am so so sooo close to being debt-free. I know a new car is in my works in the future closer than I'd like, and I'd love to be ready for it with having all my credit card debt done looming over my head.

It's a happy day, happy Friday, and happy kick-off to the holiday race season weekend with my favorite local 5K! Yipee!

What are you loving this fine Friday?

November Recap

But seriously... how is it December already?

Total run mileage: 123.69. Goal demolished. New highest monthly mileage ever! 

Highest weekly run mileage: 48.9. Holy cow, no wonder I was so tired! Highest weekly mileage too!

# Runs: 23

# Rest days: 11 

# Cross-training workouts: A few walks. Not enough that I should be doing, given this month's mileage.

# Races: Lots of races! Pacing mostly, but a few for fun. More to come in December! :)

     - Revel Canyon City Half Marathon

     - Lexus Lace Up 10K Palos Verdes

     - Surfers Point Half Marathon

     -  USA Invitational Half Marathon

     -  Riverside Turkey Trot 15K

Favorite run: Revel Canyon City. I seriously had such a blast that day and though I was in it for fun (pacing), I've never had that much fun running a half marathon, nor pacing, before! It was a beautiful day, a gorgeous course, and a new race for me, so all things stacked up to be a pretty fantastic Saturday morning. 

Hardest Run: Not a run, but that Baldy business was a little real. I'm working on a post all about it, but 15 miles round trip of a hike, working muscles I kinda forgot that I had, and 15 degrees at the top of the mountain? 

There's a Six Peak Challenge coming around Southern California next year and I'm half tempted to do it - just as another way to ensure I'm doing some extra training outside of running. My quads haven't felt that worked in a long time. But for the beauty, the serenity, and the sheer satisfaction of making it to the top of So Cal's third-highest peak? Priceless.

Current need: Officially, a new Garmin. My baby is well over three years old and is starting to die quicker and quicker, despite being on the charger all night. I'm already eye-balling my new one and am gifting it to myself once I hit my #1000orbust goal (1000 miles on the year) -- 117.63 miles to go and she's mine! Can't wait! 

Current favorite: Christmas at Disney. Duh. 

Current goal: There are exactly 117.63 miles that stand between me and my reaching 1,000 running miles in a year for the first time ever. I am way freaking stoked and ready to earn that IERC pin! Bring it on, December.


Month Goals: I made most of my November goals, or at least made good progress towards them, so I am super pumped about that. 

• 115 miles: Demolished. 123.69, woot woot! December goal: 117.63 to finish #1000orbust and do it before December 27 so I'm not cramming all the miles in between Christmas and New Year's. And then extra mileage is just fun. 
• Strength train at least one time per week: I didn't do anything. Seriously. I need to get on it to get strong for some spring races. December goal: strength train at least one time per week.
• Keep up 95oz water per day / 1-2 sodas per week: I'm doing better at this and have definitely watched my soda intake while eating out. Water + Gatorade. Holiday season time is hard with all the wine (!) but I know that if I keep up on my water, indulging in wine and holiday cocktails won't be the end of me. December goal: Keep up 95 ounces per day. 
• Pay card minimums + pay off half of Denver trip with remaining budget: Denver isn't quite half paid off, but I have some major financial planning to do this month between Christmas and budgeting for the new year. However, I've chipped away at it as best as I am able and that's all I can do! Progress. December goal: Pay off one more credit card (already in the works) and create financial plan for the new year. Big things coming in 2016! 

November was awesome, especially with all the races I got to squeeze in between pacing and running with my bestie. December's got a few exciting things coming up between races, my sister coming home for the holidays (and Disney with her!) and other general life fun. I can't wait - it's my favorite time of year!

What are your biggest accomplishments from this month? What are you looking forward to next month?