Marathon Weekend 2016

[derekleigh]

I don't think you necessarily have to choose one of the other. I have run a few races for the medal and a PR.

I'm not a big medal junkie, but have run a few races to collect them. This medal for me is a big motivator, but that is because it is my first full.

Agreed with a lot of others, whatever motivates you (t-shirt, medal, PRs, etc) is what is important.

Oh no I wasn't trying to say medals and PRs were mutually exclusive. There are times when deciding between two similar races, a medal/shirt/swag/etc can be the deciding factor.

 

[Pixie Heart]

As I said before: running changed my life in so many ways that it is almost impossible to list it here.

But I am mostly a bling girl. I run for the bling. Ha-ha

 

[SunDial]

That only matters with fellow runners (though there are so many). Non-runners think 2 things when we talk about our running: they think that we are cray-cray, and/or they think that we talk about our running too much. I have learned to only talk to my non-running friends about my running when they ask. Sure, they were all very hhttp://www.disboards.com/threads/marathon-weekend-2016.3266760/page-155#post-54650333appy for me and supportive so many years ago, but they stopped listening after my second or third marathon.

That video was good.

 

[IamTrike]

For you and for anyone actually. We found this non-profit called Medals4Mettle; you can donate your medals, half marathon or higher, and they present them to kids fighting diseases. In their own words:

"Medals4Mettle is a national non-profit organization that collects earned finishers' medals from half marathoners, marathoners and triathletes, and presents these medals to patients (children and adults) fighting chronic or life-threatening illnesses."

Unfortunately, my local chapters don't seem very active, so I haven't had much success contacting them. But their Facebook page is filled with other chapters that seem very active. Their website is www.medals4mettle.org

thanks for pointing that Charity out. It looks like we have a local chapter.

In he last few years I've started to slip into the feelings towards medals. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy earning one for various races and I hang the proudly in a display case. But ever since I signed up for my first marathon two years ago, running for me became more of fulfilling something more than getting a medal at the end of a race. Running has become more a means to connect to myself and the world around me. I know within a few years I'll peak at my fitness level and as I age, I will probably slow down a bit. So essentially I'm trying to perform to the best of my abilities instead of collecting medals. Truly I'd like to run the Dopey Challenge as they'd be individual races, meaning there will be no holding back or taking a certain race or two easy.

I think as you run more you do develop a deeper appreciation for it. I enjoy the solitude of running alone, and the camaraderie of running with friends. I even like the bond that's formed that when you help or are helped by a friend through issues to the successful completion of a race.

My comment on medals and anticipation was not to be a diss on medals. It was more to say that right now I am really looking forward to race weekend. That anticipation is one of the reasons I hang out here and talk with all ya'll crazy runner people. I'm interested in looking at this years medals, for the same reason I stalk the USATF website looking for course certifications for Lake Buena Vista. I really like disney races so I'm all always looking for news about it, and to me seeing the medals was exciting for that reason.

As far as Disney Medals go I thought it was really cool having mine on after the Marathon and having people congratulate me or other runners engage me in conversation about how the race went.

This + infiniti. Walking around the parks Saturday and Sunday is so much fun.

When you say "because it's good for me" you are talking about the beer right?

There's a race in March that has a medal that is a bottle opener...thinking my hubby would be talked into that race to get that swag

If your ever in VA beach J+A races put one a bunch of good races. There medals are bottle openers and they have good post race parties. There Myrtle beach mini marathon has a giant surfboard bottle opener medal.

I started running because I thought it would allow me to eat more without gaining weight. I learned pretty quickly that my body doesn't work that way - even with the running, I still have to be super careful about what I eat/drink. So I'm a little jealous of those of you who run so that you can eat/drink.

Yeah I wish I was in the I can eat anything because I run camp. It's not uncommon for me to go away for the weekend eat moderately well, run a marathon and still gain weight.

I am the runner who always decides to grab water at some of the tail end volunteers. That was until ToT 2013, when I was following a woman who grabbed water from each of the last 5 volunteers, including the one volunteer who saw I was trying to get water and was pulling it away from her. Honestly no matter how hot the weather you don't need that much water at a single water stop when they are only 1.5 miles apart.

I try to keep pace through the water stops, but will slow down to ensure I don't shower myself and the volunteer with a missed handoff. I also attempt to get back to the middle quickly once I have my cup to not impede another runner from their water. If I am not stopping I am run dead middle (if water on both sides) or on the opposite side. I pinch the cup, drink a couple of sips and usually pour the rest over my head (I hate when I grab a sports drink by accident as it is very sticky to be wearing). Spilling on my shirt is fine since any wicking shirt is usually mostly wet anyway in the FL weather.

I'm in the sip and pour camp too. Especially on hot days.

 

[Pixie Heart]

Aaaaadn I just did something crazy now. ADR for this: http://anopensuitcase.com/new-dining-experience-coming-to-disneys-hollywood-studios-club-villain/

Got reservation for January 16th - 9:15pm.

Anyone?

 

[LSUlakes]

So I have a strange question, but hopefully to the running obsessed it isn't really that odd. Over a year ago I started looking into getting an outsiders opinion on my running, including form, past training, how to improve, and why do I continue to deal with injuries at a certain point of training. I cant seem to narrow down why it keeps happening and its very frustrating. I have no doubt that I will recover and run this marathon, but I hate the set backs. I think my current knee issue is actually from playing golf. So back on point, I turned to Google for research and stumbled upon Zapfitness. During the summer they host a series of running camps for different crowds and purposes. One of the camps is a week long marathon course. They have guest speakers and knowledgeable people who can help address many questions. The camp is in North Carolina near Blowing Rock. I passed this year because of the cost. It is reasonable but flights kinda did me in. I'm at the point where I could really use an outsiders perspective on my running habits from coaches. So my question is, have any of yall ever been to it and what did you think? If you haven't been, what you think of the idea of a running camp? I know its kinda a nerdy thing, but I am at peace with that.

 

[BuckeyeBama]

I have not been to a running camp, but that is because I have been coached at several points in my life. Coaching is really important if you want to achieve personal excellence. If it were me, I would rather pay for a really good (local, so they can actually watch your form) running coach than attend a camp, but someone who has actually attended one might be able to explain their benefits vs a local coach.

 

[IamTrike]

So I have a strange question, but hopefully to the running obsessed it isn't really that odd. Over a year ago I started looking into getting an outsiders opinion on my running, including form, past training, how to improve, and why do I continue to deal with injuries at a certain point of training. I cant seem to narrow down why it keeps happening and its very frustrating. I have no doubt that I will recover and run this marathon, but I hate the set backs. I think my current knee issue is actually from playing golf. So back on point, I turned to Google for research and stumbled upon Zapfitness. During the summer they host a series of running camps for different crowds and purposes. One of the camps is a week long marathon course. They have guest speakers and knowledgeable people who can help address many questions. The camp is in North Carolina near Blowing Rock. I passed this year because of the cost. It is reasonable but flights kinda did me in. I'm at the point where I could really use an outsiders perspective on my running habits from coaches. So my question is, have any of yall ever been to it and what did you think? If you haven't been, what you think of the idea of a running camp? I know its kinda a nerdy thing, but I am at peace with that.

I think the idea of a running camp sounds good and would be something I would have considered. I went through the same line of thinking that you just went through, but arrived at a different outcome. I wound up signing up with a running coach. My goal was to have repeated sessions with someone that could tailor their feedback to me. I only wound up doing 2 sessions with the coach but would gladly do more. The coach did identify some things in my form that weren't quite right and actually helped me through a dynamic warmup plan to reduce injury. It's not a camp but it might be another option for you.

 

[derekleigh]

I think as you run more you do develop a deeper appreciation for it. I enjoy the solitude of running alone, and the camaraderie of running with friends. I even like the bond that's formed that when you help or are helped by a friend through issues to the successful completion of a race.

My comment on medals and anticipation was not to be a diss on medals. It was more to say that right now I am really looking forward to race weekend. That anticipation is one of the reasons I hang out here and talk with all ya'll crazy runner people. I'm interested in looking at this years medals, for the same reason I stalk the USATF website looking for course certifications for Lake Buena Vista. I really like disney races so I'm all always looking for news about it, and to me seeing the medals was exciting for that reason.

Oh definitely. I didn't take your comment as a diss towards medals. To me running a race has become more able the intangibles and unique experiences that can only be provided at a given race. The tangible stuff like medals, shirts, etc e added perks that make the package whole.

 

[Keels]

Aaaaadn I just did something crazy now. ADR for this: http://anopensuitcase.com/new-dining-experience-coming-to-disneys-hollywood-studios-club-villain/

Got reservation for January 16th - 9:15pm.

Anyone?

Thinking about it - especially if the cocktails are included in that price. We get back from our cruise on the 15th, so it really just depends on when the husband wants to drive back to Texas.

So I have a strange question, but hopefully to the running obsessed it isn't really that odd. Over a year ago I started looking into getting an outsiders opinion on my running, including form, past training, how to improve, and why do I continue to deal with injuries at a certain point of training. I cant seem to narrow down why it keeps happening and its very frustrating. I have no doubt that I will recover and run this marathon, but I hate the set backs. I think my current knee issue is actually from playing golf. So back on point, I turned to Google for research and stumbled upon Zapfitness. During the summer they host a series of running camps for different crowds and purposes. One of the camps is a week long marathon course. They have guest speakers and knowledgeable people who can help address many questions. The camp is in North Carolina near Blowing Rock. I passed this year because of the cost. It is reasonable but flights kinda did me in. I'm at the point where I could really use an outsiders perspective on my running habits from coaches. So my question is, have any of yall ever been to it and what did you think? If you haven't been, what you think of the idea of a running camp? I know its kinda a nerdy thing, but I am at peace with that.

I tend to subscribe to the theory that we, as people, only have our ultimate success hindered by our own actions. Some things, like money, flights, etc., are more peripheral issues than ultimate stumbling blocks to success.

Basically, you want to get better at something, the only person stopping you is ... you.
You want to be a scratch golfer? You play a lot, you hit the range every day, you work with a swing coach, you practice your short game.
You want to learn a foreign language? You get Rosetta Stone or take an immersion course. You practice every day with native speakers.
You want to excel in your profession? You get extra degrees or certifications. You take extended education to keep up with new trends.

Anyway. I think something like this running camp sounds PERFECT for you and what your ultimate goal in life is. It doesn't sound nerdy at all! Would it work for someone like me? Probably not, because my goals (just finishing) are very different than yours (BQ, etc.). Would it work for you? It absolutely seems that way!

 

[SarahDisney]

So ... kinda weird question...
Has anyone been to an expo for a race you're not running? Is it really awkward?
I kinda want to go to the NYC marathon expo just to check it out, but I'm afraid I might feel really out of place because I'm not running. (Plus, I have about a thousand things on my to-do list today ... but I have been known to ignore my to-do list occasionally, so that may not stop me from going)

 

[kevdad]

So ... kinda weird question...
Has anyone been to an expo for a race you're not running? Is it really awkward?
I kinda want to go to the NYC marathon expo just to check it out, but I'm afraid I might feel really out of place because I'm not running. (Plus, I have about a thousand things on my to-do list today ... but I have been known to ignore my to-do list occasionally, so that may not stop me from going)

I never have, but wouldn't think twice about it. Go! Sounds like fun and a great way to check out the exhibits. And I can't imagine anyone will know or care whether you're actually running on Sunday.

 

[kevdad]

The coach did identify some things in my form that weren't quite right and actually helped me through a dynamic warmup plan to reduce injury.

I don't see dynamic warm ups mentioned very often but I think they're a great way to avoid injuries. Lunges, squats, high knees, butt kicks, leg swings, etc. do a great job warming up the muscles before a run and only take 5-7 minutes.

 

[SarahDisney]

And ... runDisney just tweeted that they have the Marathon Weekend medals at the expo. Crap, I really have too much to do today ... but it looks like I'm skipping part of my to-do list and heading into the city this afternoon.

ETA: I'm charging up my camera so that I can bring it and hopefully get decent close-ups of the medals

 

[LSUlakes]

So ... kinda weird question...
Has anyone been to an expo for a race you're not running? Is it really awkward?
I kinda want to go to the NYC marathon expo just to check it out, but I'm afraid I might feel really out of place because I'm not running. (Plus, I have about a thousand things on my to-do list today ... but I have been known to ignore my to-do list occasionally, so that may not stop me from going)

At and expo that big, no one will notice if you are running it or not. I have been to really big expos and small ones, and the only thing that really changes is the race specific merchandise. It is really cool seeing that much running stuff in one area though so I would recommend going. In fact, since you aren't running the marathon, it would be ideal for you to go to this one and check out everything and spend a lot of time there. That way when you do go to one for a marathon, you will spend less time on your feet and just get what you need at the time. Are you going to go watch and cheer for this years race?

 

[Keels]

And ... runDisney just tweeted that they have the Marathon Weekend medals at the expo. Crap, I really have too much to do today ... but it looks like I'm skipping part of my to-do list and heading into the city this afternoon.

ETA: I'm charging up my camera so that I can bring it and hopefully get decent close-ups of the medals

Uh, yeah ... we're all going to need you to go take pictures now.

 

[SarahDisney]

At and expo that big, no one will notice if you are running it or not. I have been to really big expos and small ones, and the only thing that really changes is the race specific merchandise. It is really cool seeing that much running stuff in one area though so I would recommend going. In fact, since you aren't running the marathon, it would be ideal for you to go to this one and check out everything and spend a lot of time there. That way when you do go to one for a marathon, you will spend less time on your feet and just get what you need at the time. Are you going to go watch and cheer for this years race?

I definitely wanted to go to see everything there and not have to worry about all the walking wearing me out too much.
Currently I'm not planning to watch and cheer, but I might change my mind. It'll depend on how I feel when I wake up on Sunday and how my run goes.

Uh, yeah ... we're all going to need you to go take pictures now.

I have a pretty crappy point and shoot, so I can't promise that the pictures will be good, but my goal is to get close ups of each medal and ribbon.

 

[kevdad]

And ... runDisney just tweeted that they have the Marathon Weekend medals at the expo. Crap, I really have too much to do today ... but it looks like I'm skipping part of my to-do list and heading into the city this afternoon.

ETA: I'm charging up my camera so that I can bring it and hopefully get decent close-ups of the medals

Can you grab a pair of these for me, size 12? Pretty cool looking with the "NYC" on the back.

 

[SarahDisney]

Can you grab a pair of these for me, size 12? Pretty cool looking with the "NYC" on the back.

View attachment 131693

Those are actually pretty awesome (I've been seeing them online for a few days), but ... I really wasn't planning to do any shopping. Mostly just browsing (and medal picture taking, of course). Sorry.

 

[MeridaAndAngus]

So ... kinda weird question...
Has anyone been to an expo for a race you're not running? Is it really awkward?
I kinda want to go to the NYC marathon expo just to check it out, but I'm afraid I might feel really out of place because I'm not running. (Plus, I have about a thousand things on my to-do list today ... but I have been known to ignore my to-do list occasionally, so that may not stop me from going)

I've been to a race expo for a very large race I wasn't participating in. I actually went after my bi-weekly long run, so I was still in my running clothes & compression socks

It was not awkward at all. Plus, it was nice to check out some products in person and get some samples and previews of other races. I say go for it!