A First-Time Marathoner's Review of the Chicago Marathon 2012... It Was INCREDIBLE!!!

Rebecca - Mile 24 of 2012 Chicago Marathon

Training Days Completed: 196
Total Miles: 416.2
Total $$$ Raised to Fight Melanoma: $2450

Upcoming Race Schedule:
1) 11/22/12 - Naperville Noon Lions Turkey Trot 5K
2) 3/30/13 - Rock N Roll Half Marathon Lexington
3) 5/5/13 - Flying Pig Marathon Cincinnati
4) 5/25/13 - Soldier Field 10 Mile
5) 7/21/13 - Rock N Roll Half Marathon Chicago
6) 9/28/13 - Chicago Half Marathon
7) 10/13/13 - Chicago Marathon

 

 

 

Words Can Hardly Describe How I Feel About Finishing the 2012 Chicago Marathon

My journey was amazing, and so I am sad to see it come to an end with this message. Training for a marathon motivated me to make better choices for my life. I enjoy being physically fit, working hard, going to bed early, and getting started early in the morning, even on weekends. I made an incredible number of new friends and connections, and I mention just a few of them here. I try to be a positive role model for my students having raised almost $2500 to fight melanoma. I share about my races and training, and I donate my time for the benefit of others that are less fortunate than me. I am nothing but thankful that I have the time and opportunity to run and to the people in my life that help make it possible for a busy single mom to train for races of this caliber. (That's you Mom and Dad.) I just checked the stats, and this year Chicago will be the world's largest marathon. I am humbled to have been a part of it. I set a goal to run this race in my friend's name and for that reason I gave it everything I had. I left everything out on that pavement, and I hope that Katy would be proud. I hope that the money we gave Jack's Fund will provide families affected by melanoma with comfort.

Race Recap

Race Expo

Close-up of Logo on This Year's Short-Sleeved SWAG

The Race Expo at McCormick Place was not to miss for serious runners. I noted many deals for signing up for races on the spot. My favorite was the Soldier Field 10 mile. For signing up at the Expo I received a free yoga mat and a $25 discount. I was also able to pick up my packet and swag for the upcoming Monster Dash. Other freebie favorites were the commemorative poster which now hangs in my classroom, a Gatorade towel, and a pace tattoo for signing up with a Nike pace team. My Garmin GPS totally borked running through the concrete canyons, and so my tattoo turned out to be very helpful for my 4:55 group. The swag itself was great this year. The Nike finishers gear sold out in record time this year and that left some feeling disgruntled.

Even the Pace Tattoo Had the Nike Swoosh

Pre Race

I left my house at 4:00 AM and arrived at Soldier Field in record time. They offered discounted parking and my walk to the Congress Hotel, where my charity team had reserved a room, was only a mile. A light breakfast was available, but I was too nervous to have more than a few bites of a bagel. I did feel a bit unprepared for the cold weather. Almost everyone else had gone to Goodwill for 'throw away clothes'. These are collected at the end of the race and given to charity. I will NEVER make the mistake of not picking up throw away clothes for a long distance cold weather race again. However, I am very grateful to the kind person that gave me a garbage bag. I ran for 5 miles in that thing before I finally warmed up, and I run hot!

Jack's Team Photo at the Congress Hotel

Notice in the picture to the left that I am in corral M. I thought I was in the right place considering that this would be my first marathon, but apparently Corral M is where they put the run/walkers. I snuck up to corral K with some other charity runners to join the 4:55 pace group, and I STILL passed thousands of people. Literally. Rookie mistake. I am breaking up with corral M, and we are never ever ever... getting back together.

 

The Race

I'm Sexy and I Know it - My Attire for Miles 1-5

Miles 1 - 3: It was in the upper 40's when the race started. I normally run very hot and therefore need less layers than the average runner. I'm not sure why, but I didn't warm up until about mile 5 when I finally felt ready to rip off & the garbage bag and settle into a rhythm. This part of the race was a blur of trying to figure out how to keep up with my pace group, and how to pass hundreds of runners while following race etiquette. All of us in the pace group had the same problem as we passed many, many people. As a newbie, I'm not sure what was going on here, but perhaps people in the 5 hour finish time range overestimate their actual abilities? I am not sure, but it was a bit unnerving. My highlight here was running through the Loop and especially running past the Chicago Theater.

Miles 4 - 8: I already had to use the restroom. ARGH! This was unusual for me, but I was thrilled to be able to take care of my needs and manage to quickly catch up to my pace group without incident. I did not need to use the facilities again until after the race. Weird. I remember the days when I couldn't even run around my neighborhood without searching for toilets after about a mile. (See blog post from April 2, 2012.) At mile 7, I planned to look out for my high school friend Kristin Morris. I had just started to think that maybe she had trouble getting her little guy out of bed that morning when I heard my name. I turned around and she and her son Jon were behind me. I stopped to hug her and give little Jon a high-five. Kristin, thanks for doing that. Your cheers boosted me at a time I needed it.

From L to R: Matt, Steve, Jason, John of Glen Ellyn Running Club

Miles 8 - 10, my feet started to hurt. Great. Another unplanned scenario. My feet NEVER hurt this early. However, never fear, my Fuel Belt fanny pack is here. That's right, I said fanny pack. I practically run with a purse. I had snacks, supplements, kleenex, my Samsung Galaxy SIII, ipod, and ibuprofen in there. I have never taken medicine in the middle of a run, but ibuprofen it is. If I am already hurting at mile 8, then something needs to be done, and thank goodness I was prepared for this to happen. I read every marathon training book I could get my hands on and seriously, there is no reason to be ashamed of the fuel belt for a first-timer... or a second-timer... etc. Take a look at the photo at the left. Even the men carry 'fanny packs'. It's okay, and it could save you. Special thanks to these members of the Glen Ellyn Running Club that took me under there wings before the race. They gave me great help and support. Truthfully, I was nervous to be on my own until the race started.

Miles 9 - 13: another section of the race that is a blur for me. At this point, I am looking around my pace group and realizing that no one else looks like they are in pain. My tummy starts to grumble, and I ask myself, 'Is now really the best time for Runners Trots to rear their ugly head? No! Go away!' It is time to start thinking of contingency plans. Being with the 4:55 pace group was my 'best race scenario'. I had stuck it out with them so far, but it wasn't looking pretty. One of the books I read was Marathoning for Mortals by John 'The Penguin' Bingham. Following his advice, I devise plan B. Plan B is to stay with the 4:55 group (11:15 mile) for as long as possible. After that, I would go to my 12:00 run/walk training pace. Plan C is to finish. At mile 13 or so, I hear another cheer from the crowd and it is my buddy, Lisa Simon. Lisa is an accomplished triathlete, yoga instructor, and Ironman Wisconsin finisher. She jogged alongside me for a bit, and I shared with her that I was hurting more than I expected to at this point. Lisa encouraged me, and again, I felt an incredible boost from a friend that took the time to find me and offer personal words of encouragement. Thanks, Lisa.

Chicago Marathon Route Map - miles 17 to 26.2

Miles 14 - 19: I know that many of my friends signed up for text alerts during my race. I also registered for text alerts to be sent to my Facebook page to keep anyone interested up-to-date. These text alerts would go out at the start, 10K (6.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 30K (18.6 miles) and the finish. I made it to the half way mark with my 4:55 group and started to think, 'What if I could stay with them until 30K? What if, and why not try?' So, I set my mind on this mini-goal. Believe it or not, my feet stopped hurting, and I did not have to use the restroom. My tummy pains faded too. I was in the zone, I really and truly was. I focused on making it to every aid station, which was placed every half mile. I would walk through them, take a sip of Gatorade, a sip of water, and then catch up to my group. Before I knew it, I made it to the 30k mark. I knew that my friends would get the text and see that I had almost made it to the end. My leg muscles were starting to hurt. 11:15 per mile was the fastest I had ever run the 20 mile distance. Normally, I would train at a 12:00 pace and run/walk the entire distance. So, at the 19.5 mile aid station, I continued to walk longer than I normally would and waved goodbye to my pace group. A special thank you to our leader Marie Bartoletti (a Kona Ironman finisher) and to Steve Pones (Glen Ellyn Running Club), who provided encouragement to me along our journey.

Mile 22 - Determination

Miles 20 - 23: I now know I am going to make it, and that my time is going to be good, not my best case scenario but good. Thinking back I literally did a couch to Marathon. Less than a year ago I was smoking, of all things. This is GOOD! I settle into my training routine. Every muscle in my legs is sore, but I know I can do this for a final 10K. I enter the Pilsen neighborhood and am thrilled with sudden burst of energetic crowd support. The people that live here offer us Jolly Ranchers, pretzels, and oranges from their own homes. Professional DJs are set up every few blocks. This neighborhood knows how to party AND how to support the back of the pack. Pilsen gets my vote for best neighborhood to run through.

Somewhere around Mile 22, I here the click of a camera. The picture too the right is the result. I knew that I had a crazy look on my face at the time, but wow I like this photo. I call it 'Determination', because that was what I was feeling in that moment. I was determined to finish strong. Next, I see a Jack's team member walking to the right. I tap him on the shoulder and give him the thumbs up as I pass. His expression at the time looks a lot like mine, maybe a little sad, and then surprised. Days after the race this man, Michael, shared with me that he was contemplating stopping at the next aid station and not finishing the race. He told me that he changed his mind after my little bit of encouragement, and he finished. Congratulations on your marathon finish Michael. You are awesome!!!

My Finish Photo

Miles 24 - 26.2: Somewhere on Michigan Avenue the first photo in this blog is taken. I am smiling because 2 miles more is nothing. I am still able to run/walk, and I know I am going to finish in just over 5 hours. At the 24 mile aid station, a man is giving out high-fives and singing, '2.2, that's all you gotta do!' to everyone that passes. I had to get in on that action. *hand slap* Finally, I turn the corner from Roosevelt to Columbus and there it is, the finish. I finished in a herd of people... all whom have their own amazing stories to tell. I sifted through about 15 stills before I was able to crop the photo on the right. Wow. This picture also shows exactly how I felt at the time. Exactly. The expressions on everyone's faces at my finish time range from the way I look, to dazed, to relieved. There is a commonality to the 5 hour finishers, we all worked our butts off. The Chicago Marathon requires a 6:30 finish time. We all made it. It wasn't pretty for us, but we all made it. For me personally, I ran longer and faster than I ever have in my life. I didn't get my Plan A, but with an official finish time of 5:08:17, I beat my training pace and my Plan B goal of 5:30.

Post Race

As I finish, I am able to immediately wrap myself in a cellophane blanket and pick up a finisher's medal. I walk for what seems like forever to the complimentary massage tent. I am pleasantly surprised at the short wait here and the fact that I have two massage therapists working on me at once. After their treatment, I manage to walk back to the Congress and finally to Soldier Field. As I'm crossing Michigan Ave, a short skinny girl threatens to take my finishers medal from me. Seriously. I think she was just mouthing off to her friends, and I didn't even react. The idea that someone could take the medal from me is ridiculous. Ha ha! Hilarious! Nice joke and good luck with that. I found out later that the marathon ran out of finisher medals for the last 1000 people or so that crossed the line with an official time. This is an embarrassment for a World Marathon Major. However, according to news reports, Chicago made it right by Fed Ex-ing engraved medals to those that did not receive them the day of. Chicago had a record turn out in 2012. In fact, because New York was canceled due to the unfortunate effects of Superstorm Sandy, Chicago was the largest marathon in the world this year. Be proud, not angry. I know I am. This was the perfect first marathon for me, and I will never forget this experience. I couldn't have done it without you, my friends, family, and supporters.

Official Race Results

Post Marathon

Monster Dash 5K- 10/21/12 - Rebecca & Tommy

I drove myself home and was alert for about an hour before I hobbled to my bedroom. For the first time ever in my life I couldn't move my legs. I literally had to pull them by my sweatpants to shift positions in bed. Weird. As far as working out, I managed to run just 23 miles and bike 10 over the next four weeks. My muscles were only sore for a week, but I found myself going to bed at 7PM every night, which left me just enough time to manage my work and family responsibilities. I was hoping for better, but truthfully this was not unexpected. I took my son to the Monster Dash in Chicago. He did a great job finishing his first ever 5K in just under 33 minutes. According to my Garmin, this was for a distance of 2.8 miles, but hey, he ran his best no matter what the distance, and I am very proud of him. I would definitely run the Monster Dash again. Even though it is very close to the marathon, my son had a blast. It was a a good value considering the awesome finisher's jacket, medal, fun factor, and price. Also, they give medals to the kids. If my son wants in again, I'm in. I enjoy encouraging his interests, especially running, which helps keep him focused.

Rebecca & Brittney with Rham Emanuel at Hot Chocolate 15K

Next I competed in the Hot Chocolate 15K on 11/4/2012. Even though I did not have time to train at all because of all the sleeping I had been doing, I still ran my fastest race pace ever at 10:09. My Soldier Field race pace, which at 10 miles is a similar distance, was 10:30. I also met the mayor of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel. Rahm was a super nice guy. He walked right up to my friends and I after he finished speaking at the podium and asked if this is where the fast people are supposed to stand. Of course I said,  'Yes!'

I had a good time with my friends, met the Mayor, got my moneys worth, but I would not run this race again. I love the sweatshirt, but there were 44000 registered runners. This is just a hair shy of the number of people that are allowed to register for the marathon. I would recommend this race to beginners that want to get out there and have a good time. However, the logistics were frustrating for experienced runners. The theme is motivational, especially for couch to 5K people. So, I would not give this race a solid thumbs down. It just isn't for me.

My medal Collection for the 2012 Race Season

My medal collection this year is pretty awesome. They are all fantastic in their own way. I plan to run the same races next year with the addition of RNR Half Marathon in Lexington and the Flying Pig Marathon in Cincinatti. I am registered for everything except the Chicago Marathon, which has not opened yet. I saved $115 this year by taking advantage of early bird registration specials and coupon codes. The early bird deals usually only last for the first day or two after registration opens, but I recommend it if you know that you want to run a particular race. From left to right the medals are Soldier Field 10 Mile, RNR Chicago Half Marathon, Chicago Half Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Monster Dash 5K. The stained glass Monster Dash medal is especially unique.

My Medal Being Engraved at Naperville Running Co

Training for the Flying Pig begins on December 30th. Until then, I plan to take it much easier in my off season, which began yesterday with my 10 mile sunset fun run at Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve. For me, a fun run means you run at whatever pace feels good. Yesterday, it was a 10:52 pace. Not too shabby. I plan to run about 25 miles per week along with outdoor biking (weather permitting), lifting at school, and a variety of P90X DVDs. It would be nice to tone up and slim down before my serious training season begins, in just a few weeks. Ha ha! I've enjoyed blogging and, as long as there is interest, it will continue to chronicle the misadventures of a single mom and her exploits in the Chicago distance racing scene. Ciao!

Epilogue

Runners' Art

Elemental - Painting by Ocean Starr Cline

This is a painting by Ocean Starr Cline. I reminds me of how I feel when I run and everything is clicking. She is working on a commission for me using the same theme. I am glad I chose to celebrate my successful marathon finish by working with Starr rather than buying an overpriced Nike jacket. JMO

Please see Starr's Etsy account to view her work, make a purchase, or set up a commission like I did. This Christmas, let's think about celebrating by supporting self-employed artists and privately owned businesses.

http://www.etsy.com/people/OceanStarr

Runners' Crafts

Brittney just started her own Etsy account through which she sells customized crafts including etched wine glasses and water bottles. Please consider supporting Brittney this holiday season.

http://www.etsy.com/people/ybrittneseaholmsmith

Thank You

Katy Sirovatka, Jon Combs, Tommy Nitsch, Sharon Scott, Kirk Scott, Karen Sirovatka, Matt Sirovatka, Debbie Peters, Bill Peters, John Sirovtaka, Kathy Sirovtaka, Marilyn Sirovatka, Jim Sirovatka, Kristin Morris, Lisa Simon, Neal Florine, Steven Schulte, Brittney Smith, Chuck Smith, Tania Shepherd, April Marlatt, Sue Zarbock, Mike Schmitt, Dave Jackson, Rob Gerdes, Christine Pour, Dan Turney, Branden Adkins, Tim Torkelson, Dan Vergo, Elaine Dively, Slappy McGee (Kim), Cathy Hirschauer, The Mahlberg Family, Chili Dawg, Elizabeth Mays, Students and Staff at Plainfield East High School, PEHS Boys Vollyball, PEHS Science Club, Beth Bridwell, Donna Gudanick, Jennifer Guyton, John Zigmond, Kim McArthur-Self, Mike Giebelhausen, Millington United Methodist Church, Mina Setor, Patricia Tatman, Patty Page, Peg Beckman, Patty Page, Craig Clendening, Mike Dwyer, Naperville Running Company, Jack's Team, Teresa O'Brien, Amy Saletta, Sharon Marston, The Marston Family, Marie Bartoletti, Steve Pones, Lisa Coleman, Alfred Martin, The Zelnor/Noon family, Desi Davila, Kara Goucher

A Perfect Fall Day at Springbrook Forest Preserve - 9/22/2012

Meeting Desi Devila at Chicago Marathon Expo - Brooks Booth

Chicago Marathon Tomorrow... Here We Go!!!

Chicago Marathon Tomorrow...

Unfortunately I do not have time to post much. However, if you would like to follow me on my marathon journey tomorrow, you may sign-up to receive live texts as I cross the 10K, Half Marathon, 30K, and Finish Line check points.

My bib number is 50260.

Good luck to everyone. Race hard & own it!!!

http://tadpole.textingforward.com/portal/tf_marathon_login_social?pvRaceId=1481

Jack's Fund Booth at the Chicago Marathon Expo

What It Is Really Like to Run Twenty Miles Without Stopping - For the First Time Marathoner

Unlike McKayla, Rebecca IS impressed at NRC

Training Days Completed: 160

Miles Run: 310.5

Days to Chicago Half Marathon: 6

Days to Chicago Marathon: 34

Miles Left In Training Program: 157
Best Running Store: Naperville Running Company
Best Running Magazine: Runner's World
Best Beginner's Training Program: Higdon Novice 1
Best Female Marathoner: Kara Goucher

What It Is Really Like to Run Twenty Miles Without Stopping - For the First Time Marathoner

Saturday, September 1st was an important day for many in the Chicago area. Regardless of what training plan Chicago Marathoners are using (Nike, Hal Higdon, et al) most were scheduled to run 20 miles. It is the longest of the long runs in any marathon training plan. I am friends with several seasoned long distance runners, and NONE of them would scoff at running 20 miles in a single outing. This run was a big deal to me period. After the gastrointestinal disaster at the Chicago Rock N Roll half, I was scared of this workout as it loomed on the schedule I keep taped to the wall above my desk. The first full week of school I was exhausted every night and missed all but one run. The second week of school, I developed a knot in my calf that spasmed all day. I frankly wondered if signing up for the Chicago Marathon had been a serious error in judgement. My heart was in the right place as I am in this to honor the memory of a friend, Katy Sirovatka. I raised over $1400 so far. My entire school is behind me as well as my family and friends. Still, I was petrified that I would let them down, that although my intentions are good that my body would not be able to deliver.

I took care of my calf by massaging it with a foam roller, golf ball, tennis ball, Ben Gay, whatever. I have no idea which technique worked best because I desperately tried so many. My guess is the golf ball. I put my entire body weight on the golf ball on the knot in my calf until the pain went away. This took a couple days, by the way. The Wednesday before my 20 mile run, I was scheduled for 9 miles. It was the first long run I was able to complete on a school night. To my shock and pleasant surprise, I felt better and more energetic than before at work the next day. How this is possible I have no idea, but I am starting to become more optimistic in general. The prior pain I blogged about: my knees, my plantars fasciitis, and my calves are almost completely gone. I only continue to wear the patellar straps for my knees because I will change nothing about my gear before my big marathon day. NOTHING. I am even stuck with wearing the ugly Asics Gel 3030 because the Brooks GTS I experimented with were a disaster. I feel like the only runner with blah white shoes, but oh well. After hearing numerous stories about so-and-so not being able to actually run in the Chicago Marathon due to a last minute injury etc. etc. etc. I am going to stay the course from now until Columbus Day Weekend. Plus, despite their boringness, running in the Asics is almost as good as a pedicure. I said almost.

The Asics Gel 3030 - The Most Expensive, Ugly Running Shoe You Will Ever Love

Rebecca & Noon Running 20 on IPP

Saturday afternoon I geared up for 10 miles out and back on the Illinois Prairie Path. I strapped on my ipod and Garmin Forerunner GPS watch with a goal of running a 12 minute pace throughout. I already know that I only need to run a 15 minute mile to qualify as an official finisher in Chicago. I have also been trying a version of the Galloway Method. I run 1 mile and then walk 1 minute. I adopted this strategy after completing my last half and found that I beat my PR at the half on every single training run since. Although the idea of walking for any amount of time during a race was counter-intuitive to me at first, I decided that if it's good enough for Jeff Galloway, an expert, then it is good enough for me, a rookie. The first 3 miles of my run was solid. I stopped every mile to gently stretch my arches and calves. This seemed beneficial and well worth the time. At mile 5, I was loosened up and ready to settle into a steady rhythm. It was at this point that I met a fantastic marathoning father/daughter team. Mr. Zelnor and his daughter Mrs. Noon. I am terrible at first names, but I focused on remembering their surnames so I could include them in this blog. I also work with one of Noon's childhood friends. Hopefully she will see this post.   :)

Mr. Zelnor gives Rebecca a reassuring pat on the back

It was obvious from Zelnor and Noon's gear and technique that they were training for the Chicago Marathon too. I excused myself as I passed them and then apologized when they caught up to me as I started my one minute walk. Instead of passing me, they slowed down to join me. Zelnor and Noon saw that I was breaking in my Jack's Team singlet for next week and wanted to hear about my experiences as a first time marathoner and charity runner. This family was fun to talk with and an incredible positive influence. The father completed 35 marathons and his first was when he was about my age. They also wanted to hear about how I started running (to quit smoking) and about Katy's story. It was a cloudy day, and it rained the entire time I was out. (Thank you to Hurricane Isaac.) However, I kept thinking about what Mr. Zelnor said. He said that today would be a great day for me because it would be my first 20 mile run ever. A great accomplishment as well as reassurance that I WOULD finish Chicago and successfully honor the memory of my friend. Wow. He was right, and I thought about that for the remaining 12 miles of my run. Meanwhile, along the way, I received many smiles, waves, and thumbs up from strangers for my efforts for Jack's Team.

Ace Ventura - Alrighty Then!

At mile 11, my former GI troubles begin to rear their ugly head. UGH!!! It had been over a month since I experienced Runner's Trots and I honestly thought that mine were caused by heat and inexperience. WRONG. It was not hot today, and I was not running quickly. I later consulted with my mother about what trigger foods she avoids for IBS. Let's see, she said: alcohol, cheese, caffeine, and chocolate are the worst triggers. Well alrighty then. Good thing I went to Wine and Cheese in Plainfield for dinner the night before and had coffee and chocolate chip French Toast for breakfast. It was chocolate chips on 12 grain bread. That's healthy, right? Right! I will not make this same mistake again. There will be others but not this one. In the future my diet will consist of white rice and potatoes for three days before a race/long run.

McKayla is not impressed by Port-A-Potties

At mile 12, I stop to use the Port-A-Potty at mile marker 0 in Wheaton. Neither McKayla nor I were impressed... at all. Blech. I gagged a few times before giving up and leaving. I knew that the Warrenville Public Library would be open at mile 17 and was willing to take my chances and wait 5 miles to use the facilities. Up to this point, I maintained my 12 minute mile pace. However, due to the GI pain, I slowed down to 14:00 per mile. I reasoned that there was no point in making myself ridiculously ill on a training run. I felt okay through mile 17 and much better after stopping at  the library. Consequently, I was able to pick up my pace again and finish my 20 mile run in 4:24:48. This is an average pace of 13:15. Not bad, particularly considering my GI issues. A 13:15 pace for a marathon distance would result in an overall time of 5:47. This is well within the maximum of 6:30.

The next day my muscles and joints felt great, strong and pain-free. However, I was surprised by the four hour nap I needed. I laid down to rest my eyes at 11:00 AM and what do you know? All of a sudden it's 3:00 PM. Whoops. Still, I am not going to be too hard on myself. This will be my first marathon after all. I worked past my lowest moment in late July and am starting to feel better after every long run rather than like a truck ran over me. I feel an incredible sense of accomplishment to have made it this far and to have reached the point where running is a pleasure again rather than a means to an abstract goal.

Thank you to everyone that has been supporting me up to this point. You mean the world to me. An extra special thanks to my racing buddies Tania and Brittney. You are my inspiration to be better and go faster. Christine, Lisa, and Dan have also been amazing and willing to share encouragement and advice. They have completed Marathons, Half Marathons, Ironmans, Half Ironmans, etc. etc. etc. and therefore lead by example. <3

Raising Funds at the Chicago Half Marathon

This Sunday, I will be running the Chicago Half Marathon as a member of Jack's Team to honor the memory of Katy Sirovatka. Since starting my journey, two additional people in my life were touched by melanoma. One lost her battle but the other person is still bravely fighting. I hope that you will consider donating to Jack's Team via my fundraising page and help me reach my goal of $2000. I chose this goal because $2000 was the amount Katy raised when she finished the Wisconsin Ironman for Melanoma. Jack's Fund is a 501c3 charity that participates in corporate matching programs. It is run by the friends and family of Jack H. Marston II. He was an active member of his Glen Ellyn, Illinois community, a four-time Chicago Marthon Finisher, and a soccer coach. I am proud to support Jack's Team. As a donor, you can rest assured that that the vast majority of your dollars benefit those whose lives are directly affected by this disease. Jack's Team members pay their own marathon entrance fees, transportation, and hotel costs.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. Thank you for your support whether it be encouragement, a donation, or both. My journey is almost complete. To be continued...

Related Links

1) Rebecca's Donation Page: http://www.active.com/donate/12JTCHI/rebecca23

2) Information on Jack's Fund: http://www.jacksfund.org/index.htm

3) Rebecca's Training Plan: http://halhigdon.com/training/51137/Marathon-Novice-1-Training-Program

4) Runners World Article on Avoiding Race Day Disasters Including GI Distress: http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-239-582--14522-0,00.html

5) Illinois Prairie Path: http://www.ipp.org/

6) Chicago Half Marathon: http://www.chicagohalfmarathon.com/

7) Naperville Running Company: http://www.runningcompany.com/ 

8) Kara Goucher Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/KaraGoucher

9) Wine and Cheese: http://wcbytcc.com/home.html

Reviews of Soldier Field 10 Mile, Chicago Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon, & Continued Misadventures

Rebecca & Brittney @ Soldier Field 10 Mile

Training Days Completed:132

Miles Run: 214

Dollars Raised So Far: $1419.10
Goal: $2000
Training Days Until Chicago Marathon: 65
Best Gel: Hammer Banana
Best Gummy Clif Margarita
Best Race: Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon
Best Medal: Soldier Field 10 Mile
Best One-Liner: 'Dunkin' Donuts is NOT the next Aid Station' - Medical Personnel at Half

A Sincere Thank You to Plainfield East High School Parents, Students, and Staff

Ms. Scott's 4th Hour Chemistry Class Supports Our Fight!

The Plainfield East High School 'No One Fights Alone!' Boys Volleyball Fundraiser was a smashing success. In total, PEHS raised $491.12 to fight Melanoma in honor of Katy Sirovatka via Jack's Marathon Team. April Marlatt, also raised $500 for the Chicago Avon Walk for breast cancer through the same event. We are very proud and humbled by the support given by  parents, students, and staff. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Unity of community will best end the unnecessary suffering and sadness caused by the disease of cancer. April completed her fundraising event in June 2012. Rebecca's efforts will culminate at the Chicago Marathon to be run on October 7, 2012.

April Marlatt finishes her 39.3 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in June 2012

Training Update

Well, well, well, summer is here and it is hot as Hades, as if you haven't already noticed. I promised myself that I would never ever ever ever ever complain about running in the heat after spraining my ankle dodging a snow drift this past winter. So, I won't. But I will say that fantasies of running in crisp weather wearing a nice fashionable scarf are on my mind. I will reward myself after training with hot mulled cider & pumpkin pie. Ahhhhhh... but enough of that and back to the reality of finding out what it is like to train for my first (and quite possibly only) marathon on the surface of the sun. I have two words for you... Runner's Trots. I do not think I want to say what these are directly because I will lose readers and probably donations if I go into detail. Google it yourself. *wink wink*

Review of Soldier Field 10 Mile

My first major race of the season was the Soldier Field 10 mile. I paid an $80 entry fee. Goodies included a semi-weatherproof stadium blanket that is going to be AWESOME for my Friday Night Lights. Also included were a short sleeve tech shirt and finishers medal. Race day parking at Soldier Field was plentiful & free. The course was 5 miles out and back, most of which was on or near Lake Shore Drive or with a lake view. On course support was minimal, but they did offer a choice of water or Gatorade. Honestly, I was there to 'feel the rush' of running through the player's tunnel and finishing on the 50 yard line. The experience did not disappoint. I ran a great solid race with Brittney Smith and Neal Florine throughout. There is nothing like running with friends, and finishing together.

Rebecca and Neal finish together on the Bears 50 yard line.

Race Pros:

1) Friends are allowed to pick up your race packet for you.

2) Race day parking is plentiful and free.

3) Goodies include a tech shirt, high quality medal, & weather-proof stadium blanket.

4) Race finishes through the player's tunnel and on the 50 yard line at Soldier Field.

 

Race Cons:

1) Minimal on course support.

2) Minimal sponsor samples.

Astronomy Lesson

I planned a training run at Springbrook Prairie on June 5, 2012. As I pulled into the parking lot I saw a group of men gathered with telescopes. I thought that maybe they were spotting wildlife, but instead, as they explained, they were tracking the last time Venus would move across the surface of the sun in our lifetime. Immediately this attracted my attention because I often feel as if I am moving across the surface of the sun. One of the astronomers, Alfred R. Martin PH.,is a Professor of Biological Sciences at Benedictine University. I promised the boys a shout-out in my training blog and it is long overdue. HOLLA BOYS!!! It's been wonderful meeting so many intelligent, kind, and interesting people on my journey to complete the Chicago Marathon.

***Note: In the picture of the sun, the largest black dot is Venus, and the smaller dots are solar storms. Cool.

Venus Transit taken by Rebecca - 6/5/2012

Astronomers including Professor Alfred R. Martin, PH.D

  

Review of Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon

My next major race was the Chicago Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. I paid $85 to enter and honestly it was worth every penny and then some. I actually found a blog complaining about the fee for this particular half which goes up to as much as $150 for procrastinators. My favorite remarks were, 'I liked it better when running wasn't cool,' and 'OMG is U2 Playing'. Ha! No sorry, it was Cobra Starship. My advice is to learn to plan ahead and sign up for this one as soon as registration opens. Also, there will be promotional coupon codes such as $13 off for signing up on the thirteenth of the month.

My friends Brittney, Tania, & I were reserved a hotel room at the Congress Hotel on Michigan Avenue through the race website at a very reasonable rate. We were easily able to pick up our packets and enjoy the expo at McCormick Place, which was walking distance from the hotel. The Expo gets a 10/10. Small samples were plentiful the best of which was an XSport arm band which can hold my phone. I needed that! I won a high-quality Brooks tee shirt. I also discovered the Margarita Clif bloks here AND finally purchased a cute Rock 'n' Roll running hat, which I also needed. Not that I like to brag about the fact that I like to run these high mileage races in the City of Chicago with logo gear. Ha ha ha! The tech shirt was AWESOME. The medal itself was cute and even covered in glitter glaze... a nice addition to my collection.

The race was well run, and support was exceptional. Aid stations handed out water, Gatorade, GU, sponges, wet clothes, ice, and some included people with hoses aimed to spray runners. AHHHH! The local bands were solid and played a variety of covers such as Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, The Outfield, & Rush. Life Coaches were dispersed throughout the course to give words of encouragement, and Medical Personnel gave me my best laugh. It was that awkward moment at mile 10 when no one is saying anything because we are all silently wondering if we are going to die as we longingly look at the stretcher on the side of the road. We pass a Dunkin' Donuts and the Medical Guy says, 'Dunkin Donuts is NOT the next aid station.' Wow! We even get comedy. The post race samples were incredible. The vendors literally pushed them on us. I can't remember everything but I think I took a full-size Gatorade, bottled water, a Jamba Juice Smoothie, Dole tropical fruit cocktail, full-size Marathon bars, tuna packets, popsicles, a mini-carton of chocolate milk etc. etc. etc.

As for my personal experience. Well... I went on a two week hiking trip in Yellowstone with my son immediately before and returned to town specifically for this race. So, the question in my mind was... would hiking 50 miles up and down the mountains, down and up the canyons, facing grizzly bears, and not stopping until I thought my legs would fall off be a substitute for a training plan.

*moment to ponder*

No, it wasn't. But, hey, I had some great experiences and captured fantastic photographic moments like this one, and this one, and this one.

Rebecca contemplates Yellowstone River after a 3 hour hike from the rim of the Canyon. - 7 Mile Hole Trail

Tommy slides down a glacial boulder on Slough Creek Trail - The Abrooska Range is in the background

Tommy & Rebecca FINALLY ascend the peak of Mount Washburn in time to see the Big Horned Sheep and their kids - Note that my Jack's Marathon Team Cap makes it to the summit as well

Heck you can even face your fears on your vacation and finally come face-to-face with a grizzly sow and her two cubs. In fact, possibly the bear, only fifty feet away from you, could stare you down and take a few steps in your direction. You could survive ALL THIS... but sorry, you are still hosed for your half marathon the following Sunday because all of this is not going to be enough.

Grizzly Bears in Yellowstone on the Beaver Ponds Trail... I Guess the $50 I spent on 'Bear Spray' was not a paranoid waste of $$$ after all

Ah hem... so back to my race experience. It was wonderful, fantastic, the best support ever, I enjoyed a weekend in the Congress Plaza Hotel with my girlfriends, etc. Howeva... there were also the Runner's Trots. These came into play at about mile 8 when the barely manageable cramping started. I looked desperately for the Port-A-Pottys, but I couldn't find them. I thought about what I should do if... & then they come into sight. WHEW!!! By the way, I waited in line forever before I finally settled in. At mile 10, after slapping hands with the Life Coach (He reassured me that I was going to finish this race!) the cramping began again. Happily, I find the Port-A-Pottys immediately and this wasn't as close of a call. At this point I sincerely start to wonder if I am going to be able to finish this race at all. I want to... even if I have to crawl. At mile 11, I start to cry tears of joy because I realize that I AM going to make it. I think about Katy Sirovatka and all she must have gone through in her treatment. I am running this in her name and I will finish what I started, and I will make her and her family proud. At mile 12, I start to smile and pick up the pace, because I am feeling better. I end up passing 200 or so people that decided to walk it in between mile 12 and 13. As I approach the finish, I hear the announcer say, 'And here comes Rebecca Scott!' as if I am a celebrity. I point at him, give him the thumbs up, and smile. He says, 'It feels good doesn't it?' I pump my fist at him and then cross the finish line. In that moment, I did feel like a celebrity. Considering all that happened, my time wasn't that bad. I am starting to see and feel the physical effects of my training, I had a good time with my friends, and I gained valuable  experience on my journey to completing the the Chicago Marathon. Yes, it was worth it.

Rebecca Finishes the Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon

As I staggered through the finishers area I collected my samples in a daze and looked for my friends. Shortly after that, I looked for the Port-A-Pottys. I knew this was going to take some time, so I set my samples down by a tree & went in. I almost started crying when I realized that ALL of pottys were completely out of toilet paper. ALL OF THEM. I freaked and almost started crying when a stranger bestowed an act of kindness upon me. She handed me a baggie filled with Kleenex. Who knows how many minutes later, I found my tree just as the Chicago Park District Employee is getting ready to toss my samples. 'Are these yours?', he said. 'Oh yes... I really want them.' He said, 'Well, they have been sitting here a very long time.' I replied, 'You don't want to know what I've been doing.'

Lessons Learned

1) Either stick to your training plan, or mentally prepare to pay a price.

2) Drop down from Nike Intermediate to Hal Higdon Novice 1.

3) DO NOT EAT a full meal the night before or the morning of a race.

4) Take Immodium before a race.

5) Always bring a baggie of TP.

Honerable Mention

Props to the people in charge of maintaining the portable pottys after this race. I saw some things that just weren't right. I tried not to look, but the pottys were such a mess I would have had to gone in with my eyes completely closed to avoid seeing something gross. I thought about it, but in the end there was no way I was going to risk actually touching something, anything, in the portable restroom. I do not think the potty's were salvageable at all. I am an environmentalist but sometimes it is best just to throw disgusting things like these potty's away. Perhaps we could put them at the other side of the universe through a wormhole with Loki like in The Avengers. Or maybe we could send them into space with the nuclear waste.

Race Pros

1) Excellent tech shirt and finisher's medal.

2) The best on course support bar none.

3) More free samples than I could carry.

Race Cons

1) The portable pottys at the race finish were out of TP early.

2) I know that Brett Michaels was touring with Poison the week before and therefore could not make our post-race concert, but Cobra Starship? Really?

Coupon Code for $5 Off Chicago Half Marathon on 9/9/2012 - Good Through 8/8... CHMFR5K

 

Race Results

Stadium Blanket Given As Part of the Goodie Bag for the Soldier Field 10 Mile

 

Soldier Field 10 Mile Finish

Soldier Field 10 Mile - May 26, 2012

Chip Time: 1:44:56

Pace: 10:30

Division Place: 683/1282

Overall Place: 8303/12833

Rainbows Summer Sunset 10K - June 24, 2012

Brittney & Tania @ Rainbows Finish

Chip Time: 1:13:28

Pace: 11:51

Division Place: 11/13

Overall Place: 47/64

There is Nothing Like Racing Through the City of Chicago with 15000 of Your Closest Friends

Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon - July 22, 2012

Chip Time: 2:46:08

Pace: 12:41

5K: 33:06

10K: 1:08:47

10 Mile: 2:04:22

Division Place: 967/1353

Overall Place: 11875/14986

It's All About the Medals...

...And the Tech Shirt/Gear

Fundraising Update

Thank You to the Following Donors Since my Last Blog Entry:

1) Patricia Tatman - $25

2) Mina Setor - $250

So far I raised $1419.10 of my $2000 goal for Jack's Fund in Katy's name. Jack's Fund participates in corporate matching and is a 501c3 charity. Please consider joining my journey in a personal way. Following is the link to my donation website. Or, you can contact me for more information at rebecca.a.scott23@gmail.com. Happy running!!!

http://www.active.com/donate/12JTCHI/rebecca23