Race Reports, Kudos and Encouragement for August 11th, 12th Racers! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

WDWFAN9

08-12-2007, 05:40 PM

All I can say is that once again WISHers have proven to be one of the best groups in the world! The support, encouragement, and comaraderie were amazing, which is pretty much SOP for our team. The CDC was a blast!!

DH and I had the privilege of hosting Anne, her DH, and Lily at our home about an hour sw of Chicago. My XSIL just registered for ToT so she joined us for dinner Friday night and we had a delightful evening of gabbing and just sharing our stories. She loved having the opportunity to meet a few WISHers in person (she has heard ALOT about them) and now is even more excited about ToT - her first event ever!

The expo itself on Saturday started off great with John Bingham himself checking my chip and if possible things only got better from there. We ran into a whole contingent of WISHers and it was like a great big family reunion! It really is something how the internet has brought such a diverse group together, and how much of a community we have become!

Once we had gathered together we headed to Gino's East for pizza. Carrie and Scott had gotten there earlier (they had gone for an early morning run, cleaned up and headed over beforehand) and had the pizza already ordered before we arrived. I have to say that Gino's was very accommodating of our large group and treated us very well. The pizza was delicious!! We spent lunch munching on pizza and laughing! And, we didn't scare the newbies away!

After lunch we split up - DH and I were with the Wicked group, and I was very impressed with the show! After that we met up with Anne, Robert, and Lily and headed back home to prepare for an early morning.

That early morning rolled around very quickly. Fortunately the 3:30AM thunderstorm blew over quickly! When we got to the race area the glowing WISH shirts made it easy to find the rest of our teammates and we chatted and took pictures until it was time to line up for the start of the race. DH and I discovered that the 3:30 pacer was the same woman as last year. She is an absolute hoot and acted as a tour guide, pointing out all the buildings of interest as we walked along.

We all settled into our own pace and DH and I found ourselves walking with Maggie, doing her very first half ever! One thing that was very lacking this year was port-a-potties and DH decided he needed to forge ahead and scout one out. At this point we were ahead of the 3:30 group, between mile 3 and 4. Maggie and I traveled along, passing the time talking about our previous WDW trips, trading opinions about various resorts and restaurants and park touring strategies. I was in heaven - if there is anything that will help time pass quickly for me it is talking about WDW! Unfortunately for me, this CDC I developed a blister on my left foot (last year I got a really bad one on my right) and was a nagging annoyance! Ouch! We didn't see DH until under McCormick place, he had finally gone into a building to use the facilities and then waited for us to catch up. We walked together for a short while crossing over Lake Shore Dr, only to be diverted to the walking path instead of continuing on the road. We were well ahead of the 3:30 group and pointed that out to the people diverting us, but they just shook their heads and pointed us to the path. At this point DH was just a little miffed that we had to do the walk of shame, sharing the path with the participants headed in the other direction!! Actually I was ok with that because it gave us the chance to see a few WISHers that were ahead of us!! DH surged ahead again and Maggie and I continued at our steady pace. DH saw some workers taking down mile marker 8 and said - "hey it's way too early!" The response - "I don't care":scared1: :scared1: Just to jump ahead at this point --at the end of the race Sallie the 3:30 pacer came up to us and apologized for the diversion. She had phoned Coach Jennie from the course to get workers to stop taking down everything before the race was officially over. She said that this was not JBR, but LaSalle Bank's doing, and that she was sure John would strongly address the issue with them.

Anyway, Maggie made a pitstop at about mile 8 (not exactly sure since the mile marker was down) and quickly caught up with me. Personally I was a little disappointed with the lakeshore view. It was much hazier than last year - still beautiful, but not as breathtaking as before. For a long time Maggie and I saw Karen and John's shirts calling to us from up ahead and we managed to catch up with them at maybe mile 10. You might have noticed that I haven't mentioned the heat - well it was HOT, much hotter than last year (honest - it really, really, really was a lot hotter this year). We trudged along and caught up to Lily and Cam at maybe mile 11. John had dropped back a little and us 5 ladies continued on. A very nice lady from TNT offered to take a pic of us as we were walking - our shirts again received alot of compliments from our fellow racers. Our faster fellow WISHers offered us cheers of support as we headed into the home stretch - Carrie and Scott, Maggie's DH and adorable boys, Howard, and well, honestly I don't remember it all clearly (apologies to my fellow teammates if I have left you out!!). As always it is an amazing feeling to cross the finish line and receive a well-deserved medal.:woohoo: :woohoo:

Afterwards we gathered for pictures, chatted for a few minutes, traded hugs and promises to see each other soon (ToT is something like 75 days away) and headed our separate ways.

Thanks to my fellow WISHers for another great experience, especially Maggie. Your company was greatly appreciated! Cam, Lily, and Karen it was great to travel the last couple of miles together!

In the words of John Bingham, until we meet again "Waddle on!!"

PS - I'll try to post some pictures soon!

HMHunters

08-12-2007, 05:49 PM

Yay! Thanks for sharing, Pat! Sounds like a great time. It really, really, really puts me in the mood for the WDW marathon!!! Congrats! Sorry about the scrooges on the course; I would hate to be looking for a mile marker and never see it.

escape

08-12-2007, 06:46 PM

SeeDisney - I don't know how I missed your report earlier! Dang! Anyway, glad your DH had a good run - for a good cause, too! Good luck next weekend. :cheer2:

Pat - great report. Sounds like you and the WISH team had a great weekend and great race this morning.. I was worried about you guys in this heat. Yikes! Bummer about the stuff being taken down so earlier. I hope LaSalle will get an earful about this. :mad: See you in a couple of months for the ToT! :)

princessmomma

08-12-2007, 06:54 PM

Yay Pat! :banana: Sounds like you all had a great time! Congratulations for another half marathon under your belt!

eeyore45

08-12-2007, 07:15 PM

YEAH!!!

I was up watching TV very early - around 6am - 6:30am Channel 2 was showing us peeks of the CDC!! You can spot the LIME!! WOO HOO :woohoo:

Please, put me down for next year!!!

Big Vic

08-12-2007, 07:37 PM

SeeDisney - Congrats to your DH.

Pat - Great race report, and congrats!

nucpharm29

08-12-2007, 09:04 PM

Pat--Thanks for the report! sounds like a great time was had by all--except us that stayed home;) Makes me all the more excited to meet up with everyone again at ToT. I hope Bingham give LaSalle a what-for about taking down the course so early!

Okay, who's next--someone has got to have pictures!

WDWFAN9

08-12-2007, 09:15 PM

Here are a couple of pics from the CDC (I hope!!)

Gino's Pizza

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e298/wdwfan9/IMG_1288.jpg

Starting off with Maggie, Anne, and Robert
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e298/wdwfan9/IMG_1307.jpg

windwalker

08-12-2007, 09:30 PM

See Disney and Pat thanks for sharing.

WISH ROCKS!!!

Dave:hippie:

TEK224

08-12-2007, 09:59 PM

Great Report, Pat! Looks like you guys had a great time at Gino's!

Congrats to all our CDC racers! :cool1:

Terri

SilverE

08-13-2007, 10:43 AM

Congratulations to all WISH team competitors!

SeeDisney: Congats to your husband.

Pat: great report; sounds as if you all had a great time!

I am leaving today for a two week lakeside vacation; no internet connection :sad2:, so I'll have lots of catching up to do upon my return.

Congratulations again to all who competed this past weekend; and good luck to all who have an event coming up. :thumbsup2

Happy training everyone!

magslite

08-13-2007, 04:18 PM

OMG, I wrote a report this morning, and it doesn't seem to be here! I wonder what I did wrong.

I will try to hit the highlights. It was a great weekend for me. To finally meet some of the WISH team in person was incredible.

The night before was filled with waking every half hour to look at the clock. When the storm hit about 3ish I got up for good to check the satellite. It didn't look like it would clear up in time but I got dressed and had some coffee in hope of the severe weather watch passing. It did, and turned into quite a hot sunny morning. Although, the weather was nicer than it had been imho.

When we lined up with our pacer, Anne kept me nice and calm. She was great at making me feel part of the group right away. I was nervous and glad to have the other WISHers at the start.

Once we got going, Pat, her dh (some of the way), and I fell into pace. As Pat has said, we walked and talked Disney. If it wasn't for Pat, this would have been a longer race for me. She really made it easy. Also, she is very stoic, because I would have whined the whole way if I had blisters, but not one complaint from her. I on the other hand, complained about my tight hip that I was hoping would loosen up. It did, but not until about halfway through.

Before catching up to Pat after my pitstop, I power walked passed gentleman who was probably in his late 70's. He was joggin along, and as I started to pass him, he jokingly yells "show off". I ofcourse slowed down to talk to him. He was very nice. I hope that I am out there doing this in my 70's. I am also glad I took the time to talk with him while I walked. Meeting people like him will be part of this cool memory.

Catching up to Lily, Karen, and Cam the last few miles was awesome. I was so excited to be part of the team and just chat with them. I can't wait to see the pics.

I had decided about a week before this race that I would not do it again. I didn't really like the walks longer than about 8miles. But I committed to this one, so I needed to finish.

BUT, then the last mile we walked passed Carrie & Scott, Jen and her family, Darcey and Andrew, Krista and Stephen (please forgive me if I missed anyone)and my dh and ds's (holding a sign "GO MOMMY") all cheering for us. The feeling was awesome. Once I rounded that last corner I knew this would not be the last time.

While there are some valid complaints about the race day organization etc.. It was my first so I can only think of it as great. But, I am looking forward to having the experience to compare/critique.

Calcio

08-13-2007, 06:37 PM

Pat and Mags

Thanks for telling the tale of the CDC. All of you who faced and conquered the heat and humidity of 13.1 August miles in Chicago did very well indeed. Congratulations.

I particularly enjoyed the pictures, seeing familiar faces from January, many of whom I look forward to seeing in October and/or January.

Good work everyone!!!!!!!!!!

Craig

Jen117

08-13-2007, 09:44 PM

Here is my race report for CDC. I am sure I will forget some points, but will do my best.

We drove to the WI/IL border Friday night and stayed at a Best Western with a room where the A/C was broken... and it was really hot out! Hotel was booked, so we suffered. Got up early and headed into the big city. We made it to the Hilton in time for the WISH meet. Yah, I was so excited. We walked into the hotel, pre-checked in and found Mel (chimera) instantly. It's funny how I don't forget the faces at all. She said to go to the expo because most people were there... instantly found the crowd at the Reebok booth. It was like seeing family again. How awesome it was to walk down the stairs and hear "It's Jen!!" Made my day and thanks for all the hugs.

I brought the family with, DH Paul. DDalmost 7 Emma, and DD4 Kate. The girls didn't "get" my friends but they loved how everyone was so nice to them.

OK, so then we headed out to Gino's pizza... umm, this really seemed longer than a mile guys!!! My girls were not into the walk, but we saw a Disney Store and bribed them that if they were good we would stop there on the way back (and take a cab back to the hotel!). They were so good at Gino's, I was impressed. And the food was great. Did anyone catch that this was the Pizzeria that Katie Holmes ordered pizza to to be flown down to her movie set in Louisiana? DH Paul did and told me. How cool. It was great chatting with everyone and meeting Newbie Maggie... who by the way has a really cute little boy. And he was so polite to share play-do with my girls. Thanks!!!!

So after lunch we took the girls to the Disney Store. Since we are going to WDW/Ohio next week, I didn't want to buy much. We did find these cute little princess backpacks on clearance for $5... perfect for them and made them happy. Then we grabbed a cab back to the hotel. DH was impressed with my cab hailing ability... less than a minute and I had one. I guess that is what happens when you travel a lot!!! Oh man, the girls loved this cab ride. The driver was very impatient, honking at everyone... you know, typical crazy cab ride. Back at the hotel for swimming with the kids and rest.

4:30 alarm and I said to myself.... Why are you doing this. I didn't want to run... AT ALL. I almost bagged the whole thing. All my stress build up over the months is wiping me out and I just didn't want to exert more energy. But I did pull myself out of bed, dressed to the T in WISH wear and headed to the main floor for the meet up. Still didn't want to run, but kept a smile on my face. We walked over to Grant Park and took a really nice group photo. If anyone has a copy, please email it to me. Then I took one last potty break (good thing in case you haven't read about the lack of porta potties). I found Mel and she said "let's do the 2:45 pace group".... PANIC PANIC PANIC... OK I said. Oh wow, I couldn't get started at all. My breathing is off, I was hot, I was sluggish... But I was running with Mel and she was AWESOME. Did I mention Mel was awesome. If it wasn't for her, I would have dropped back. We followed the 2:45 for about 4 ish miles and then we decided to slow a bit. I really think the pace group was going a bit fast. By Mile 5 I think I was feeling a little better, still hot. Mel was still great, loved running with her. We went down a highway, that was a little uncomfortable, then under McCormick Place (Convention Center).... that was downright Hot and Stuffy. I could have done with out that. Shortly after that the water stop didn't have glasses, but I think the rest of them had restocked. I noticed shortly after mile 8 that Pat and Maggie and then later Anne were coming at us on our path. I asked Pat if they were diverted and she said yes. That is odd, they weren't that far behind us and there were a lot more behind them.

OK, so we are chugging along, doing intervals when we remembered to check the garmin, I was happy with that pace because my foot was aching. Then mile 10 we both decided to walk. Mel's hip was hurting and I decided I didn't care what my time was, I was enjoying the run/walk now. I know that I could have PR'ed if I kept going with intervals, but I didn't care because it was about friendship and finishing. So we walked most of the last 3 miles... at a good pace too. I think we finished just a couple minutes after 3:00. I felt good, my foot ached a bit but wasn't too bad.

After the race Mel took off to meet her daughter for the soccer game. I found my family, chatted with Carrie and Scott for a bit, watched some WISHers come through, chatted with Steve and Krista, cheered on the group of 5 (Pat, Karen, Maggie, Cam and Lily) and then headed off the hotel to pack up.

All the WISHERS were awesome. I loved having time to chat. I think I talked more this time that I did in January. Krista and Steve are the cutest couple ever and just so nice (and funny, you were cracking me up with the hot dog and hating running thing). Carrie gave me a sponge and it was the greatest thing ever!!!!!! Thank a bunch!!!! Oh and Cam... thanks for the running shirt. Mel was awesome running partner and thanks for the lime Mickey... too awesome. Oh and I met Darcey and Andrew for real. I know I screamed at them during the marathon, but we never officially met.

As for the CDC... I don't think I will do it again unless we have a WISH group there. I liked it, but it wasn't the greatest course ever. Maybe it was the muggy heat? Not sure. The lack of port a potties and no towel at the end bothered me. DH said there were lots of people throwing their towels away. Also, it was a little expensive for a one night trip. But don't get me wrong... I loved the race because I have never ran with anyone before and that made it great for me.

Thanks everyone, I can't wait to see you all real soon.

Up next, a few picture. I don't have many, but will share what I can.

Jen117

08-13-2007, 09:48 PM

Picture of the skyline and "Married with Children" fountain.
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m213/jploucks/DSC00597.jpg

Carrie and Scott
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m213/jploucks/DSC00603.jpg

Mel and I
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m213/jploucks/DSC00605.jpg

Darcey and Andrew
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m213/jploucks/DSC00608.jpg

Pat, Maggie, Karen... in the background is Cam and Lily
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m213/jploucks/DSC00611.jpg

WDWFAN9

08-13-2007, 09:55 PM

Great report Jen!! And beautiful pictures!

Big Vic

08-13-2007, 10:34 PM

Congrats everyone!!

KeenHo

08-13-2007, 11:05 PM

I wanted to thank all of the WISHers that attended the CDC for the friendship and company during our trip to Chicago. The city was impressive, friendly and beautiful.

Carrie and Scott were great roomies, we had a great time sharing space and the race prep with them.

I enjoyed meeting up with everyone at the Expo, at Gino's East (Yum!), at Wicked, and on race morning. I ran the race all by my lonesome... Lynette and Kevin Z weren't there this time to run with me I guess.

I started out at or around an 8:30 pace. I finished the first 5K at 29:27 or something similar. I slipped into a 10 minute mile pace, which was comfortable and sustainable, for most of the rest of the race. I hit a not so nice small wall just after mile 11. I didn't have any beans, Gu or other nutrition on me so I had to suck it up and tough out the rest of the race. I did have to slow down to a quick walk several times throughout the later part of the race to conserve what I had in the tank and to breathe a bit. I did this and kept my eye on the clock, keeping to the 10 minute miles if possible.

I was ahead of the 2:00 pace group up until about mile 10, then they passed me. The 2:15 pace group never passed me. I guess they finished right behind me (I didn't look back).

Here is my official time which matched my Garmin (in time only). The over passes, tunnels, etc... made the Garmin mileage WAYYYY off.

1612 Howard Wilmington DE 44 M 2:15:35 It equates to a 10:20 pace overall.

I did get a towel, but noticed that they allowed several people to grab a couple at the finish. I was given one full of ice, it was a welcome treat at the end of a hot race.

I was upset that there were no "Ouis Ouis" (wee wee's) as they are called out there on the course. There was one for volunteers at the turn at the southern most point in the race, but it was inundated with runners when I passed it. Fortunately, or unfortunately, I was somewhat dehydrated (despite sipping on the Powerade I was carrying with me) and never needed one after the pre-race pit stop.

It was fun, the course had its good and bad points. If it were not for the WISH Team (which made me proud to be a member!) I wouldn't have enjoyed the experience as much.

Maggie, it was great to meet you and your family!

Lilly, thank you for hanging with Cam during the race... it sounds like you both had a lot more fun than I did.

Andrew and Darcy, it was really nice to meet you both!

A great big :grouphug: to everyone who traveled from MI, NJ, OH, DE, FL, etc. to attend the CDC. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the Tower of Terror race in a couple of months.

Howard

Cindylou

08-14-2007, 07:16 AM

Thanks Pat, Maggie Jen and Howard for the race reports. Congratulations to all of you.

Cindy

magslite

08-14-2007, 07:36 AM

Thanks for the trip reports!

Howard, it was soo great to meet you and Cam too!

Jen, thanks for all the pics! Sounds like you and Mel had fun together.

Maggie

nucpharm29

08-14-2007, 07:59 AM

Jen and Howard--thanks for sharing your race reports with us! Can't wait to catch up with my WISH family in October (oh, and Jen you gotta let me know how the surprise WDW trip goes--b/c my Emma has no idea we're going to WDW in Oct.)

padisneyfan

08-14-2007, 08:29 AM

Congratulations WISH team. Love the pictures and the race reports.

Nancy

princessmomma

08-14-2007, 09:03 AM

Congratulations team!

Thanks for the reports Howard and Jen, Jen love the action shots! So great!:banana:

WDWFAN9

08-14-2007, 01:10 PM

Hello team!

Yesterday I sent JBR this email through the 'contact us' on the CDC website:

Dear JBR team,

I would like to share a few thoughts about yesterdays CDC, which was the second one my husband and I participated in.

First off, Sallie the 3:30 pacer is a hoot. We remembered her from last year, and she remembered us. She is terrific, included everyone, made sure everyone was doing well, in short, she is a gem and represented JBR fabulously.

Now for the not-so-good: where were the port-a-potties this year? Somewhere between mile 3 and 4 there was a construction site pot that had a pretty darn long line. Sallie pointed out a few businesses that were open, but I remember last year had more porties available. At the turning point unto the walking trail the facilities were beyond disgusting from what I heard. Also, one of the water stops had run out of cups.

Now for the really not-so-good: we were well ahead of the 3:30 group and were diverted at 33rd onto the walking/bike path. My husband was especially upset to do the "walk of shame" sharing the path with the runners heading in the other direction. He decided to speed up and while doing so spotted workers taking down the 8 mile marker. He told them it was way too early, and the reply from the worker was "I don't care". Ouch. I don't think I saw mile 7, 8, or 9 markers. I definitely remember mile 10.

Better news: there was plenty of bagels and bananas at the finish, and although the water was warm it was plentiful. No towels though.

Overall, we will definitely do this race again, but I had talked it up to my internet training group (W.I.S.H. - We're Inspired to Stay Healthy) which is part of an unofficial Disney web community, and some of them have already posted that they will not repeat this event because of the lack of support. We had people from New Jersey, Florida, Delaware, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ohio all come to Chicago specifically for the CDC. Don't get me wrong, we had a blast seeing each other, but some of them have already decided once was enough - which is a real shame because I don't think JBR meant things to turn out the way they did.

I can only imagine what a logistics nightmare it must be to put on such a race. Please don't think I am sharing these things because we are angry or upset, we just wanted to let you know what a penguin experienced yesterday. I would expect that if the race has a 4 hr limit that the people who are well ahead of the balloon cuties will still have mile markers and find the "real" course still open - although one of my fellow WISHers who wasn't diverted stated that she was uncomfortable with that section of LSD with cars speeding by and just separated from the runners by cones, so maybe being diverted wasn't so terrible after all.

I hope that these few glitches are taken care of for next year, the course is beautiful, and we enjoyed it.

Waddle On!!

Pat

This is the response I received today:

Hi Pat –

You are correct – Sallie is a HOOT! I am so lucky that I often get to run with her on Saturday mornings, she makes the longs runs fun! I have copied her on this email so she too knows how much she is appreciated.

I apologize about the port-o-lets, we had planned for them to be at each aid station on course and they were not. This is unacceptable and will be a priority for 2008. I am not quite sure where the miscommunication was regarding the course, volunteers, police, operations people, but you should have NEVER been led off course, mile markers never should have been taken down, aid stations should never run out of cups.

I am so sorry that this event did not meet with the standards we have set for ourselves and what our customers (you the athletes) have come to expect. Please let me make it up to you by offering you entries into the 2008 Chicago Distance Classic. Please email me in the Spring and I will take care of getting you all registered. I promise you plenty of port-o-lets, cups, the proper course and wet towels at the finish line.

Thank you for passing along your comments, it is through emails like this one that we are able to improve for next year!

Beth

Beth Salinger
The LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic

At least our concerns were heard!

nucpharm29

08-14-2007, 01:23 PM

Pat--wow, I have to say that is pretty amazing! that you got such a prompt response, and not just a "thank you we're looking into it" response. I'm glad your concerns are being addressed--and yippee that you get the registration next year!:thumbsup2

Jen117

08-14-2007, 01:50 PM

Pat - Great letter. I am glad you got a quick response. Now if only I would have gotten a towel souvenier!!!

aladdinsgirl

08-14-2007, 02:14 PM

Pat, thank you so much for writing that letter to the CDC. I was thinking about e-mailing one as well, but you did it so much better than I ever could. That's amazing that you already got a response back from the race director. I think this year was a fluke, hopefully things will be a thousand times better next year.

WDWFAN9

08-14-2007, 03:20 PM

I heard from Sallie the 3:30 pacer and this is what she said:

Pat! You’re too kind to me, and I completely echo your thoughts! I’m attaching the email I sent to Jenny Hadfield (John’s wife, the coach, and organizer). I saw her at the finish and she was LIVID at how poorly this went off…

Please tell your friends at WISH that I was incredibly impressed to see them all at the race – to have such a fun, congenial group out there – and to have them finish with smiles, despite the circumstances –well, that was something I needed to see…

Tell me – how can I keep in touch with your group this year? Do you guys have a website? Also, you mentioned a good walking site while we were on the course – can you direct me to it? I’m training for the Nike women’s ½ and I would love some online support!

You and Jim were great again this year – thanks for including me in the fun and for reminding me why I do this race J

Keep in touch if you’re game!

Sallie

I won't include Sallie's email to Jenny because it is very long and very specific in the details of what happened! But be assured that our concerns have been passed all the way up the chain of command at JBR. Both John and Jenny were cc'd on the response from Beth. I feel bad that my fellow WISHers had a less than magical experience, but notice in Sallie's email above that our WISH team made a wonderful impression!

Maherae

08-14-2007, 05:55 PM

Pat, you are absolutely FANTASTIC!! I'm so glad that you have entries into next year's CDC. We'll get to find out if FINALLY you will be able to do this without getting a foot blister!!;)

Howard..WOW!!! :teleport: You were fast! and you got a towel!!

Darcy and Andrew, Carrie and Scott, John and Karen, Krista and Stephen, Mel, Maggie, Cam, Lily, Jim, and Jenn CONGRATULATIONS!!! :banana:

keenercam

08-14-2007, 06:11 PM

Thanks for all the great race reports here. Pat, your letter was great!

I have to tell you guys that I loved the city, loved the WISH team interaction and LOVED doing the race with all my race buddies and LOVE my medal, but I do not have any desire to do this one again, either. There are so many races in so many beautiful places that I haven't seen yet, so, if I am going to do other non-Disney endurance races, I think I will set my sights on another location. Did I mention I LOVE my penguin medal? :love: :cloud9: :lovestruc

WDWFAN9

08-14-2007, 06:37 PM

Did I mention I LOVE my penguin medal? :love: :cloud9: :lovestruc

You know.....there is another Bingham race in Arizona:rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 And an Alaskan cruise one:rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 :rolleyes1 .

I'm still thinking Vegas Dec 2008 though.....

Maherae

08-14-2007, 06:42 PM

Test

windwalker

08-14-2007, 06:57 PM

Guys the Flying Pig in Cincinnati is an interesting race. It has a killer up hill section that will be a character builder but the race is first rate. There is the possibility of a three way next year with a 5 and 10K on Saturday and a full marathon on Sunday. Or there is a 5, 10, half, full and a relay.

It's always cool weather and the support is great. This is a regular for us.

The Nashville Country Music Marathon is also a good race, it's a week before the Pig.

Dave:hippie:

escape

08-14-2007, 09:03 PM

Congratulations to the WISH CDC team on a job well done despite the conditions! I love reading these reports and seeing the wonderful pictures!

Pat, your letter is awesome. I'll bet these mistakes will not be repeated next year. Sallie sounds like a fun person. I'll be going to the Nike women's half - I wish she was going to be a pacer there. Ha!

I've been thinking about the Las Vegas race too. However, that Alaskan Cruise sure got my attention. :teeth: I think you can get better cabin rates if a block of rooms were reserved at the same time. Just a thought you guys. :rolleyes1

Any more reports? I know there were some other WISHers participating in events this past week.

WDWFAN9

08-14-2007, 09:30 PM

Pat, you are absolutely FANTASTIC!! I'm so glad that you have entries into next year's CDC. We'll get to find out if FINALLY you will be able to do this without getting a foot blister!!;)

Anne, you are definitely right about the blisters! The only time I have gotten them is in Chicago. Go figure.

One thing though.....Beth's email said to contact her in the spring about registration for us ALL. I took that to mean all WISHers, certainly she wouldn't refer to me and DH as ALL. So.....if any of this years CDCers want to go again next year let me know!

skfulkers

08-14-2007, 09:48 PM

Pat--thanks so much for writing the letter. It was easy to tell from the coordination of the race that JBR usually does put on a very high class event, but I think a lot of things just broke down on race day. Sounds like they'll make sure it doesn't happen again.

I don't have time right now to post a real race report. I will certainly try in the next day or two. Let me just say we had an absolutely wonderful time in Chicago with all of you. What a great city and what a great team to spend the weekend with! As Krista and I were getting ready for bed on Saturday night before the race, we were commenting on what a great time we were having and that it was too bad we had to ruin it by getting up early the next morning to do a half marathon. :)

I'm excited to see you all again at the TOT in October. Hope everyone is recovering well. And Howard and Cam--how are we still all alive after that cab ride??? :lmao:

Steve

Sir Bouncealot

08-14-2007, 10:45 PM

I wish I had more time right now to post a race report worthy enough to be read by you all, but this is an quick post...with pictures!:)

It was really great to see Mel, Lily, Cam, Carrie, Anne, Karen, and John again after meeting you all last January at the Marathon Weekend. And it was just as great to meet Steve, Krista, Maggie, Jen, Pat, and Howard for the first time!

Will post a race report soon, and now for the pics....
The crew at Ginos East
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u304/djansen71/Chicago%20CDC%202007/WISHGinosEast1.jpg

My DS defacing private property
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u304/djansen71/Chicago%20CDC%202007/WISHGinosEast2.jpg

My DW Darcey (DJBounce)
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u304/djansen71/Chicago%20CDC%202007/WISHGinosEast3.jpg

Outside of GIno's East (with Steve and Krista)
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u304/djansen71/Chicago%20CDC%202007/WISHGinosEast4.jpg

Millenium Park - the Bean
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u304/djansen71/Chicago%20CDC%202007/MilleniumBean.jpg

magslite

08-15-2007, 05:59 AM

Pat, great letter. Thanks for taking the time to write it. It is nice to know that your voice was heard. Sallie was great too!

Since this was my first race I have nothing to compare, but even I can see that things went wrong. I am looking forward to the next race. I have learned to carry my own water!

Hmmmm - I would definately be able to get my head around the alaskan cruise!! Wouldn't that be a GREAT WISH event!

After meeting everyone this last weekend, I am very proud to be a part of this team. I stumbled trying to explain our team ifl, but not anymore. What a great group you all are!

Maggie:)

Jen117

08-15-2007, 08:37 AM

Has anyone read the gossip news this week?? How did we miss Angelina and Brad? They were at the Field Museum on Saturday and that is so close to where we were. We were thissssssss close!!! ;)

TXBelle

08-15-2007, 09:44 AM

Great job WISH team! We are becoming famous with our lime green shirts and totally cool hats/visors. The Alaskan cruise would be such an incredible experience. I saw all the pictures from the last one, and it looked like so much fun. I just love John Bingham. He is such an inspiration. I'm with Cam, we need to find a race in 2008 with beautiful scenery and cool weather (and a huge honking medal of course). I look forward to more race reports and photos. By the way, I think the official race photos have now been posted. Everyone please provide your bib numbers so that we can find you.

WDWFAN9

08-15-2007, 10:01 AM

It definitely wouldn't take a lot of arm-twisting to get me on the Alaskan cruise!! Another possibility I've mentioned before is the Dec Las Vegas full/half. The medal is shaped like the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign. How cool is that?? And doing the half would be a good training run for those doing the WDW full in Jan.

Of course if I would only win one of the really, really big lottos I'd love to take all us WISHers down to Helen's neck of the woods!! One can only dream....but hey, somebody's gotta lotto, might as well be me!

WDWFAN9

08-15-2007, 10:02 AM

Oops, forgot to mention - I am bib 1621, DH is 1622.

Mouse Skywalker

08-15-2007, 10:16 AM

Congratulations to all the racers this past weekend. I'm really enjoying reading the reports and seeing the pictures. I think I missed out on quite the time, and I'm wanting to run this race next year now.

Pat- I'm really impressed with the letter you wrote to JBR, and especially the quick/prompt reply you got from them. It reminded me of how Disney had similar problems this past year. People diverted off of Main Street, running out of cups and water at the water stops, etc., and their response was not near as quick as JBR's was. Kudos for them for owning up to making a mistake, and for making amends for the mistake. That's nice to see.

Sir Bouncealot

08-15-2007, 02:12 PM

Caution: Long Post Ahead!

Since we live only 3 hrs away from Chicago, my DW Darcey and I thought we would make a weekend of it. We got reserved two rooms at the Clubhouse Inn in Westmont, IL, @ 20 miles or so from Grant Park (the starting line for the CDC). Along with us was my mom who was there to kidsit for our DD who is 12, but has special needs and is wheelchair bound as well as keep an eye on our boys while we do the race.
Friday:
We drive into Chicago and go straight to the Museum of Science and Industry. Both my DW and I have done this before years ago for school trips, but it has been quite awhile. They had the CSI Experience interactive exhibit set up and my oldest DS, Tyler, and I paid the extra $$ to do it. We had a real good time finding the clues, following our leads, and cracking the case. I only wish I could have been there to bust the guy and say "Book him Danno".
We toured the rest of the Museum until our stomachs decided it was time to eat. Rather than fight the crowds at the Food Court, we decided to go ahead and head out to our hotel and find someplace around there. Down the road from our hotel (Keep wanting to call it a resort) was a restaurant called Papadeaux, a cajun type place that was brick and iron, like a New Orleans type of atmosphere. The theming was really neat and we sat outside on the patio, which was really enjoyable. The food was overpriced for what it was, tasted pretty much like Long John Silvers, but cost more like Le Cellier's. Back at the hotel we spent some time in the pool before going to bed.
Saturday:
We overslept. The night before Darcey asked me if I wanted to set an alarm, but I told I didn't, that we would just wake up anyway around 6am, which we are used to. We didn't wake up until after 8am. Our original goal was to be at the Expo in the Hilton by the time it opened (9am). No chance of that. We got to the Expo closer to 10. Picked up our packets and John Bingham himself was doing chip verifications. Saw where I was from, shook my hand and welcomed me to the race. I thought that was pretty cool that he was there working the Expo. Darcey bought a tank there that said "Will Run for Chocolate". Met up with the gang and we eventually headed out for Gino's East. Oh. My. Gosh. That pizza was to die for. 'Nuff said. Walking back to our parking garage, we went past, and then though Millenium Park. Really neat park, and there was live music from rock to african drums and hip-hop going on. I liked the sculptures they had and that "Bean" was super cool. I will post my other pics I have soon, maybe on the Photography board as to not hijack any WISH threads. Back at the hotel my Mom and Tiffani (DD) were at the pool hanging out. We all got changed and went to the Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg to eat and celebrate our DS's Bdays at the RFC there. Also we stopped at Disney's Doorway to Dreams, a DVC store that has a full scale model of a 2 bedroom villa at the new DVC at AKL. WE LOVED IT!! The decor is soooo neat. AND the one bedrooms will accomodate 5 people officially and has a second bathroom. SWEET! I didn't get pics as I wasn't sure if they would have allowed pictures. LOVED IT!:thumbsup2
Sunday:
Race Day. When we woke up, the sound of distant thunder caused us to turn on the weather to see if we would be battling rain as well as those 13.1 pesky miles. No rain as it runs out, it was passing over, or had passed over and moved on. We went into downtown and met the WISH team at the Hilton to walk together over to Grant Park for the start. We realy regret not bring our camera as the sun coming up over Lake Michegan set a beautiful scene on the downtown buildings. The course brought us through many parts of downtown we haven't seen before, and along Lake Michegan which I thought was really neat. I also echo many of the problems other WISHers have brought up, and a BIG Thank You to Pat for addressing them with JBR! Darcey didn't feel very well the last half of the race and decided that this was her last Half she was going to do. She feels more comfortable with 5 and 10k's. As long as she does not quit altogether, this is something I can back her on. We ended around 3hr 20 min and John caled out our names as we came up on the finish line. We didn't realize there were towels earlier until I read the other posts.:mad: Bummer, but we did get our medals! Yay! Got plenty of Team pics taken and looking forward to seeing them as they are posted. Went back to the hotel and Darcey took a 2 1/2 hr nap while I read and hung out with the kids in the other room.
Monday:
My mom left yesterday to be home and go back to work (evil word of the day) today. We packed up and headed out, but went to the Brookfield Zoo before going back home. Walked around the Zoo and saw all there was to see. Shockingly a 20oz bottle of Coke was $3.75....I mean COME ON...it's only $2.00 at WDW. Food was more here than at WDW, for even less serving size. The Zoo was fun and we had a good time overall, but were more than ready to head back home. Steve and Krista, I don't know how Hines reacted upon your return, but our fuzzy girls were just estatic. Belle, our golden always has to have something in her mouth when we come in to greet us with. Usually it is a sock or something. This time she grabbed my pillow from off of the bed. :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Well, I hope your not all asleep and drooling on your keyboards at this point.

aladdinsgirl

08-15-2007, 02:14 PM

If you want to see our picture's, my bib # is 10111 and Stephen's is 10113. Check out how our legs are in perfect synch in every picture, it's pretty funny!

Now I have to go back and read Andrew's report.

Maherae

08-15-2007, 02:14 PM

Can you stand one more race report?

Chicago is a fascinating place..the architecture,
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00677.jpg

the city landscaping,

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00668.jpg http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00672.jpg

the food

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00664.jpg

...just WISH we had more time to explore it all! Doing an event with WISH support is the absolute BEST way to go. For those of you yet to experience it..PLEASE come to a meet, or come up to a WISH shirt and introduce yourself if you don't have a WISH shirt..We scream for lime green!

DH and I were able to do this event through the generosity of Pat and her DH, Jim, who invited us to room with them. Lily took their offer, also. We had a wonderful time! Jim is a GREAT cook..YUMMM!! :thanks:

We arrived at the expo early. Went to get our chips verified..and there was John Bingham, himself, checking chips!!
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00645.jpg http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC006472.jpg

WISHers started arriving and it was old home week! It's just so GREAT to see familiar WISHers and to meet up with new faces! We got our shirts and goodie bags. In the goodie bag: a sample of Gatorade Endurance formula, Bear Naked granola, a sample of the individual Propel powder and a $1.00 off coupon for Quaker Oats Breakfast Cookies.

The expo itself was a good size..not too large or small. I was surprised that the WALKING magazine that is published in Chicago did not have a booth. Did see a booth for the Philadelphia Distance. Here I learned about the Heavy Medal series.. http://www.eliteracing.com/home.html. Do two of their events in one year and get a special medal!! Some free stuff: playing cards, Wheaties, and a Saturn backpack. Several WISHers won free dinners at a Mexican restaurant.:banana: John Bingham Race team had a booth, which was the first time I had seen one of those. They had his books, shirts, hats, and a water bottle with a penguin on it that says, "I'm slow..I know..GET OVER IT!" So, of course, I HAD to buy one!

We left the expo and headed to Gino's for lunch. We had missed Maggie, so left a message on her phone telling her of our plans. She was able to catch up with the walking group! Because of the heel spur issue, I was taking no extra steps, if possible; so we grabbed a cab with Karen (kareneast) and John (Space Ranger). Gino's was a pleasant surprise. We didn't think that we would be able to seat 24 people together..but they made it happen!!

After lunch, the group split up. With a stop at Garret's popcorn, Lily, Karen, John, my DH, and I decided we would take a FREE trolley to see Sears tower and then hop over to do the architectural boat tour, if there was time. On the trolley, we got to see where the new "Batman" is being filmed. That's a Gotham City SWAT team!

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00675.jpg

The Sears Tower was an experience.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00681.jpg

We waited for the elevator to take us down to buy tickets (25 minutes), waited in line to go through security to buy tickets (20 minutes), waited in line to buy tickets (15 minutes), and waited for the elevator to take you up to the skydeck (20 minutes). It was a great view. We had purchased the audio tour and that gave us some interesting bits of information.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00686.jpg http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00691.jpg

Needless to say, there would be no architectural boat tour for us!:sad2:

We met back up with Pat and Jim and headed for home. We had preparations to make!

Maherae

08-15-2007, 03:11 PM

Race morning..Chicago!
5 a.m.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00697.jpg

We met up with everyone..

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC006992.jpg

Then headed for our pacer groups. I had no idea how my foot was going to do. Could I last the whole way? DH and I started out with the 3:30 group. I didn't expect DH to stay with me as he usually does intervals. He walked the WHOLE way with me!!:love: We met a woman who was just blown away with our WISH group. Teresa, are you reading? :wave: She couldn't get over that we were a FREE training group and loved Disney!! We all just really encouraged her to come check us out.

We didn't hear the National anthem nor the start gun..just started moving forward. Had to take a picture of Maggie crossing her first start mat!
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00705.jpg

It was such a difference from the Disney crowds! We had space to maneuver! My foot dictated the pace..and it let me know that it didn't care for inclines! I had to walk sideways up any of those! After about mile one, I watched the 3:30 group pull further and further away...

Coming from Florida, I didn't find the humidity or the temperature to be too much of a problem. Course, that could have been because I was doing a 17:30 pace!!:scared1:

We crossed the river 4 times...and at least two of them had this kind of steel grating we had to walk on..

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00709.jpg

Miles 1-5 were downtown:
overpasses with landscaping..
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007082.jpg

under the el..
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00717.jpg

past NBC, ABC, and the Sears tower, the Chicago theater...

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00710.jpg http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00714.jpg

Down Michigan avenue (right pass the Hilton where many were staying!) and some weird art..(it's half bodies walking...:confused3 )

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007212.jpg

Long incline up Roosevelt and onto Lake Shore Drive. Three long miles before the turn around. It was at mile 7 that we were diverted onto the bike path.

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00734.jpg

chimera

08-15-2007, 03:25 PM

WDWFAN9

08-15-2007, 04:00 PM

We might seriously consider the Alaska cruise. I'm looking for a big trip next year and Alaska was one of the possibilities. If Grandma's on board with watching the WT, this could be doable for us! It would be so cool if other WISHers could come too!

Hijacking this thread to say that I'd seriously consider the Alaskan cruise too if other WISHers were going along! Possible downer - it is just a month and a half after the WDW Princess?? half marathon. Just not enough time, not enough money!! But a whole lot of potential fun!

Maherae

08-15-2007, 04:08 PM

From mile seven until mile 13..no mile markers..

I didn't mind the bike path as I got to see WISHers I wouldn't have seen up close. However, when we had to climb back up to the street to cross the mat at mile 8, ...not so good on the foot. (How did I know it was mile 8? I memorized the course!!:rotfl: )

Mel and Jenn
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00733.jpg

Darcey and Andrew
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00735.jpg

Cam
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007372.jpg

Lily
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007362.jpg

Karen and John
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007392.jpg

Pat
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007402.jpg

Maggie
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC007412.jpg

The next five miles were all along the lake front. I didn't have anything to compare it with..so I thought it was GORGEOUS!

We saw Canadian geese,

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00747.jpg

the Firemen's memorial,

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00749.jpg

the backside of Soldier's Field, and
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00751.jpg

the marina.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00753.jpg

Then it was through the tunnel where the last aide station was,

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00761.jpg

up the incline and to the planetarium, around the aquarium
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00757.jpg

and to the last mile!
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00762.jpg

Finally, the last corner to turn.. and there was Carrie's DH, Scott!! He was so great..telling us there was still food and water and WISHers waiting!! Thanks, Scott!!

At last...
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/DSC007662.jpg

That's John Bingham himself on the right, ushering people in...I really considered waiting to be the very last one..:scratchin but I only had one speed. There were 13 other people after me!!! We did it!!

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa258/maherae/Chicago%20Distance%20Classic/DSC00767.jpg

Because Matt asked so nicely (glad to have you back!!)
L-R Anne's DH-Bob, maherae-Anne, wtpclc-Carrie, Tiger Lily 03-Lily, Carrie's DH-Scott, kareneast-Karen, her DH Space Ranger-John, DJBounce-Darcey, her DH Sir Bouncealot-Andrew, behind him is Pat's DH jims2cool-Jim, WDWFAN9-Pat, in front of her is magslite-Maggie and her two adorable boys (I got to meet Matt only), keenercam-Cam and her DH KeenHo-Howard. Thanks to Maggie's DH for taking the picture! Missing is Jenn, Mel, Stephen and Krista. Jenn and Mel have pictures elsewhere in my report. Stephen and Krista are in Pat's Gino's picture. They are in the center-Stephen has on the red and white striped shirt, Krista is in yellow next to him.

keenercam

08-15-2007, 04:23 PM

Andrew - Great trip report! I am so glad your whole family had such a great time! I really enjoyed talking with Ty and Zach (did I get that right?) on the way to Gino's. I have some great pix of your family and of you and Darcey. I will email them to you this weekend if you PM me your email address.

Anne -- what an awesome trip report! I LOVE all the pix! I'll PM you to beg for copies. :love:

WDWFAN9

08-15-2007, 04:38 PM

Can I just say that not only are WISHers great athletes, they write great trip reports and take wonderful pictures!! We truly are a very talented group!!

thndrmatt

08-15-2007, 05:14 PM

Mouse Skywalker

08-15-2007, 05:20 PM

I just have to say I'm loving all of these race reports. You all are making me feel as though I was there. Thanks so much for posting, and for the pictures. I noticed a few pair of WISH socks on those feet out there. Since I personally packed and shipped all those socks, you had a little part of me out there with you.

jims2cool

08-15-2007, 06:43 PM

Hey DH, what do you think if I have some internet buddies stay at our house??? WHAT ???? Are you Nuts ??? Oh, let me go back to the beginning.... My wife is WDWFAN9, and I am her DH (hey, I think I'm already into this whole Dis Board thing). I know she has been meeting up with W.I.S.H.ers at Disney for a while now, and she even talk me into doing the half at Disneyland last year. When we arrived at Disneyland (there must be a "code" for this), she let me know we would be meeting some of her "friends" there. Well little did I know how much fun I would have with the group. They all acted like I was one of the guys:dance3: . And they were very fun the day of the half. Well, fast forward to this year, the DW wanted to do the Chicago Classic half again this year (last year was my first half). So I said sure, I would walk with you again (can't think of a better way to spend a day then with your hunny:love: ). Well then things got weird, as the DW mentions something about some people staying at our house for the half (I must work on listening to what she says more often:rotfl2: ). Well anyway, I was game. Anne and Robert arrived first, closely followed by Lilly. Man, are these great people !!! I am not a social butterfly, as I am very shy....haha... anyway, I had a blast !!!! I enjoyed meeting EVERYONE on Saturday and Sunday !!! And to think I used to kid the wife about her 'internet" friends... ok..ok.. I'm a little slow sometimes. But I'm with the program now..... where was I going with this??? Oh yea, to all of the W.I.S.H.ers I met this past weekend, and the ones I saw again after Ca. (kam, howard, robert, anne..:grouphug: .hope I'm not forgetting anyone..) THANKS for a great time !!!! And I hope to see many of you at WDW in Jan (I will be doing the half... HELP, I need some walking buddys , as the wife oops... DW, will be doing the full). I have signed up to work a water station for the full. OK, I am out of words for now.

keenercam

08-15-2007, 09:29 PM

Anne great report, and great pic at the very end! Now since I have dubbed you the "Master of Meeting People" I challenge you to edit your post and list all the names left to right for those of us who haven't met them all. :) Go go go! :thumbsup2

Matt-- since Anne seems not to be on-scene at the moment, let me volunteer to help:
back row: Robert (Anne's DH), Carrie (wtpclc), Scott (Carrie's DH), John (SpaceRanger John, I think. Also known as Karen's DH), Andrew (SirBouncealot), Jim (jims2cool, also known as Pat's DH), Pat (WDWFan09)
front row: Anne (MaherAE), Lily (Tiger Lily 03), Karen (kareneast), Darcey (DJBounce), Maggie's DS4 (J?), Maggie (magslite), Maggie's DS3.5 (M), Cam (keenercam), Howard (keenho, also known as Cam's DH :lmao: )

I hope I got that all right. :hug:

Hey DH, what do you think if I have some internet buddies stay at our house??? WHAT ???? Are you Nuts ??? Oh, let me go back to the beginning.... My wife is WDWFAN9, and I am her DH (hey, I think I'm already into this whole Dis Board thing). I know she has been meeting up with W.I.S.H.ers at Disney for a while now, and she even talk me into doing the half at Disneyland last year. When we arrived at Disneyland (there must be a "code" for this), she let me know we would be meeting some of her "friends" there. Well little did I know how much fun I would have with the group. They all acted like I was one of the guys:dance3: . And they were very fun the day of the half. Well, fast forward to this year, the DW wanted to do the Chicago Classic half again this year (last year was my first half). So I said sure, I would walk with you again (can't think of a better way to spend a day then with your hunny:love: ). Well then things got weird, as the DW mentions something about some people staying at our house for the half (I must work on listening to what she says more often:rotfl2: ). Well anyway, I was game. Anne and Robert arrived first, closely followed by Lilly. Man, are these great people !!! I am not a social butterfly, as I am very shy....haha... anyway, I had a blast !!!! I enjoyed meeting EVERYONE on Saturday and Sunday !!! And to think I used to kid the wife about her 'internet" friends... ok..ok.. I'm a little slow sometimes. But I'm with the program now..... where was I going with this??? Oh yea, to all of the W.I.S.H.ers I met this past weekend, and the ones I saw again after Ca. (kam, howard, robert, anne..:grouphug: .hope I'm not forgetting anyone..) THANKS for a great time !!!! And I hope to see many of you at WDW in Jan (I will be doing the half... HELP, I need some walking buddys , as the wife oops... DW, will be doing the full). I have signed up to work a water station for the full. OK, I am out of words for now.

WElcome aboard Jim!! It was so great to see you again! At DL, I really did worry that you thougth we were all nuts, but I was very reassured Saturday when I hugged you and you hugged back that even if you did think we were nuts, at least you didn't think we were dangerous! :lmao: Seriously, it is SO nice to see you here! Oh, and hey, I heard you are a great cook! I'd bet if Krista had eaten at your house Saturday night, she wouldn't have been sick for the race, poor thing! :sick:

Maherae

08-15-2007, 10:02 PM

:welcome: jims2cool!! That didn't take long!!:rotfl: Now you will be like this at work..DISing..:surfweb: !! Just wait til you are with the BIG group!! :cool1: :goodvibes Anne

kareneast

08-15-2007, 10:57 PM

Part 1

John & I arrived at the expo Saturday morning a little after 9am.
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Picked up our race packets and headed over to get our race chips verified. We were really surprised to see John Bingham himself checking the chips. Chatted with him briefly and then made our way into the expo where we started meeting up with the rest of the WISH Racing Team. It was so great seeing everyone again. After lots of hugs and gathering of everyone together, it was time to start making our way over to Gino’s for some authentic Deep Dish Chicago Pizza. John wanted to save his knees as much as possible for the race, so we jumped into a cab with Anne & Bob, while everyone else walked. The pizza was different but really good and the company was even better.
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After lunch the group split up. We spent a fun afternoon with Anne, Bob & Lily. We headed to Garrett’s for some famous Chicago Mix Popcorn (cheese & caramel), then the plan was to see the city. First up….the FREE Trolley to the Sears Tower.
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We ended up with a free tour of the city and almost an hour later arrived at the Sears Tower.
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After waiting on various lines we were finally on our way to the top. What an absolutely amazing birds eye view of the city.
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I enjoyed checking out the race course from up there.
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Unfortunately this would be the end of our sight seeing tour. The afternoon had quickly passed. Anne, Bob & Lily hopped in a cab to meet up with Pat & Jim, and John & I hopped into a cab to head to Navy Pier. At Navy Pier we met up with Cam, Howard, Krista, & Steve. We grabbed some dinner together before they headed off for their Boat Tour & we headed back to our hotel.

kareneast

08-15-2007, 11:23 PM

Part 2

Sunday mornings wake up call came at 3:15am and 15 minutes or so later came the thunder, lightning, & rain. Checked the weather on tv and it looked like the storm would pass before race start…..we hoped so anyway. We still had some light rain on our way into the city, but by the time we parked the truck it had stopped. When we walked into the lobby of the Hilton we felt kind of lost in a sea of purple (TnT people), so we were very happy to see Mel & Jen on the other side. It was great walking to the start and spending pre-race with “The Team”.
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We lined up at the 3:30 Pace Group along with Pat, Jim, Anne, Bob, & Maggie.
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Lily, Cam, Andrew, & Darcey were with the 3:00 Pace Group
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Jen & Mel were with the 2:45 Pace Group
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We never heard the National Anthem or the Start, just everyone starting to move forward.
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After crossing the Start Mat the course was really wide which gave plenty of room for everyone to spread out.
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We quickly came up to our first bridge crossing.
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Walking across it wasn’t easy….the front of my shoes kept catching. I figured for sure I was going to face plant it. :eek: It was cool seeing the props for the new Batman movie that was being filmed around mile 2. Notice the cop cars say GPD (Gotham Police Department).
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Mile 5 we were out on the highway with cars whizzing by as we headed towards McCormick Place. We can see Cam & Lily up ahead.
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We catch up to them and walk with them a bit until just past the turn around when my foot cramped. I had to stop and take my shoe off to try and rub the cramp out. It remained very sore. It was really nice walking along the lake. The view was amazing. Since Sean(DS) is a Volunteer Firefighter, I especially enjoyed walking through the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park.
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We then got to walk for a bit with Pat & Maggie,
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until John slipped in the mud. Luckily he didn’t fall, but it was enough of a slip to make his knee hurt more then it already did. He had to slow his pace, but unfortunately when I slowed my pace my foot started cramping more, so we continued at our own paces. I kept looking back trying to make sure he was ok. I ended up catching back up to Pat & Maggie then the 3 of us caught Cam & Lily. It was so much fun with the 5 of us walking the last few miles together.
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As we were making our way closer to the finish, it was great seeing Carrie & Scott, then Krista, Steve, Jen, Paul, & there DD’s. Then just before the last turn was Maggie’s DH with her DS’s. They were adorable holding their “Go Mommy” sign. Next was Howard telling us not much more to go. Then out of the curve we can see the finish ahead. I jogged into the finish, high fiving Coach Jenny as I went by.

Wisher’s are the best. “The Team” is what made it a fun race & weekend, in spite of the race issues. I did really miss the support along the course though. The Elijah Running Group Scream Team were life savers cheering everyone on. I kept thanking them for being out there.

If I lived closer I would probably do the race again, but since it was a 14 hour drive for us and there are so many other races I would like to do, I probably won’t get to do it again….but you never know.

One last thing…..I really loved the Reebok sayings along the course.
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Maherae

08-15-2007, 11:46 PM

Great job on pictures and report, Karen and John!:thumbsup2 Thanks for letting us hang with you!!

Andrew, your report and pictures were great, too. Darcey is so cute with the Indian! :goodvibes Anne

kareneast

08-16-2007, 10:34 AM

SeeDisney – Congratulations to your DH
Pat, Jim, Maggie, Jen, Howard, Cam, Anne, Bob, Krista, Steve, Andrew, Darcey, Carrie, Scott, Lily, & Mel – Congratulations! I’m enjoying everyone’s race reports & photos. It was a fun weekend. We enjoyed spending it with all of you & your families.
Pat – Great letter & I was very impressed with the quick response you received. Oh….and there must be some connection between CDC & blisters. I got my very first blisters, one on each foot. :confused3
Anne, Bob & Lily – Thank you for the fun afternoon. We really enjoyed sightseeing with you.

I am bib # 3547 & John is #3548

Tiger Lily 03

08-16-2007, 12:16 PM

Husband had a great race this morning --- a five mile run --- for a scholarship fund for a beautiful young woman killed in action in Iraq.

My kiddies couldn't do their race - one mile run - cuz we got there too late.

Next race, next saturday, the local festival 5K run.Congrats! to DH. Sorry about the kidlets not getting their event in. Thanks for the report

Saturday, 11th
disneybelle (Darcey), Sea Isle 10 Mile
TriMom (Mary Kathryn), Running with Sissors 5K
windwalker (Dave), Franklin City 5K, Franklin, KY
*littlegreydonkey (Helen)'s race is on Sunday, Australia time..which is Saturday for us!

Sunday, 12th
magslite (Maggie), WDWFAN9 (Pat) & DH (Jim), meghan74 (Meghan), wtpclc (Carrie), Jen117 (Jen), Sir Bouncealot (Andrew), chimera (Mel) and DD (Kaley), keenercam (Cam) & DH Keenho (Howard), Tiger Lily 03 (Lily), Maherae (Anne) & DH (Robert), kareneast (Karen) & DH Space Ranger (John), alladinsgirl (Krista) and DH skfulkers (stephen), Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon, Chicago, IL
littlegreydonkey (Helen), City to Surf run, 14km Sydney, AustraliaWhere'd the rest of the reports go? I see CDC, but I didn't think I missed everyone else. Maybe I need to go back and read.
:surfweb:

CDC reporters and photographers. Great! reports. Thanks to all of you for making the event such fun. Thanks to my host/hostess Jim and Pat and house mates Robert and Anne. (Did Robert get his HW done? I'm sure he did by now;)--sorry if we interrupted it a bit.) It was spectacular sharing space and the ride to/from along with the great conversations. Oh, yes Jim you are a great cook!

Mel, thanks for the Mickey. Did DD enjoy the game? Cam thanks for slowing down to stay back with me. It was sure hot and I felt myself slipping.

I thank you Pat too for expressing so eloquently to JBR the good/bad. I am very impressed with the quick response, but would expect that of them too. I am certain that they are going to make sure all is much better next time.

I have not much to add, did I mention it was HOT?

If I missed something I should have please don't be sad. I really, really had a great time. Maggie, it was such fun to share your first half.

My bib # 5981 I think. I'm at lunch break so I don't have time to double check this.

I am greatful to have been part of this weekend. While I am glad I was there, probably would not drive that again. Longgg drive for me.

WISH Team is great!

I've always wanted a trip to Alaska...:teeth:

I need those pics. Those that would share will you email or snail mail to me?