Official 2011 Princess Half Marathon Thread - Link to new thread Post 3703!

[DIS-OH]

I would like to make a polite request...could we please stop making generalizations about other people not training or not knowing what they are doing?

We know nothing about other race participants' health status or training level.

An earlier comment by someone on this thread upset me...someone commented about the fact that the medical tent was packed after the race last year by people who "overdid" it and/or didn't know how to pace themselves. And, now we have another comment that seems to take the tone of "other people don't know what they are doing, so why are they even out here running?"

I was one of those people in the medical tent getting ice after the race last year...because I severed my Achilles tendon 6 years ago and had it surgically repaired. It is now shorter than normal and needs to be iced after training/racing to prevent stiffness and swelling.

I was not in the medical tent getting ice because I overdid it or ran too fast because I didn't know what I was doing. In fact, I was in the medical tent because I do know how to treat my body.

Having never been an athlete in my entire life, I am proud of the fact that I trained for and completed a half-marathon at age 45 with a bum Achilles tendon. I went from not being able to run 100 yards in July 2009 to completing the 2010 Princess Half-marathon.


The Princess Half-marathon, in my opinion, is for ALL of us...jocks, non-jocks, runners, walkers, wheelchair racers, skinny, overweight, tall, short, etc. No matther what we look like, we can ALL be Princesses for the day!

Please, think about what you post here. I would hate for someone to think that this race is only for women who are serious runners who are annoyed by those of us who are not athletic and who you seem to look down upon.

Offer friendly advice. Be supportive. Be encouraging. Be a Princess! Make this a magical experience for everyone...regardless of their knowledge or fitness level!

 

[Trudes]

Btw, finished the Chicago RnR today. 2:49, compared to my 3:11 Princess 2010.

Fantastic job Kat!

 

[HockeyKat]

The Princess Half-marathon, in my opinion, is for ALL of us...jocks, non-jocks, runners, walkers, wheelchair racers, skinny, overweight, tall, short, etc. No matther what we look like, we can ALL be Princesses for the day!

Please, think about what you post here. I would hate for someone to think that this race is only for women who are serious runners who are annoyed by those of us who are not athletic and who you seem to look down upon.

Offer friendly advice. Be supportive. Be encouraging. Be a Princess! Make this a magical experience for everyone...regardless of their knowledge or fitness level!

Sorry if I offended you. I was mostly trying to bring up the subject so we can work on being as prepared as we can be and learn how to listen to our bodies, and to help prevent a new runner from falling into some of the preventable issues (like hydration and heat management) that can cause a bad race day.

I made no mention of the medical tent... just to the people on the course that I saw today.

I am not referring to injuries, anyhow, as I clearly stated. Nor am I a "serious runner" as you put it, in fact I have continually tried to encourage people as I am really just a beginner, having started this year.

I learned a lot from what people posted on these threads and others and am just trying to pass it on. Sorry if I came across as flippant or looking down on people.

 

[swim-mom]

Sorry if I offended you. I was mostly trying to bring up the subject so we can work on being as prepared as we can be and learn how to listen to our bodies, and to help prevent a new runner from falling into some of the preventable issues (like hydration and heat management) that can cause a bad race day.

I made no mention of the medical tent... just to the people on the course that I saw today.

I am not referring to injuries, anyhow, as I clearly stated. Nor am I a "serious runner" as you put it, in fact I have continually tried to encourage people as I am really just a beginner, having started this year.

I learned a lot from what people posted on these threads and others and am just trying to pass it on. Sorry if I came across as flippant or looking down on people.

First, I have a Masters in Counseling and trust me Kat you post with compassion and encouragement - sometimes the simplest things can be read into depending on a persons mood.

As for this thread, it is full of just that compassion and support.

It is very true - you need to train with your eyes wide open this is not a 3 mile fun run it is a hard 13.1 miles that is mentally draining and if you are not prepared for the "what ifs" you can self sabatoge, which is what Kat was saying.

Everyone keep in mind - we all post on this thread for alittle more pixie dust to be sent our way. Can we all do it - YES, but you have to train SMART ---- because you do not want to be in the medical tent because you thought you could just "wing it" , because you cant.

Everyones journey running will mean something and every mile is the countdown in proving to everyone that you can do it. But to make it to that finish line you have to be prepared.

Good, bad or indifferent - we all can and will do this...............but alittle knowledge is priceless when you embark on this journey

 

[disneyaway]

First, I have a Masters in Counseling and trust me Kat you post with compassion and encouragement - sometimes the simplest things can be read into depending on a persons mood.

As for this thread, it is full of just that compassion and support.

It is very true - you need to train with your eyes wide open this is not a 3 mile fun run it is a hard 13.1 miles that is mentally draining and if you are not prepared for the "what ifs" you can self sabatoge, which is what Kat was saying.

Everyone keep in mind - we all post on this thread for alittle more pixie dust to be sent our way. Can we all do it - YES, but you have to train SMART ---- because you do not want to be in the medical tent because you thought you could just "wing it" , because you cant.

Everyones journey running will mean something and every mile is the countdown in proving to everyone that you can do it. But to make it to that finish line you have to be prepared.

Good, bad or indifferent - we all can and will do this...............but alittle knowledge is priceless when you embark on this journey

Thank you- and Kat-- for posting. I totally can see where DIS-OH is coming from and I appreciate that perspective. I can see how it's frustrating to have the assumption made that you are not listening to your body and that's why you must be in the medical tents. But for a newbie like me, it's great because those are things I have to make sure I look out for regarding my training. It's important for me to see how one can not listen to their body and have to make use of the medical tents. Likewise, it's great to read about how listening to your body can lead to using the medical tents. These boards are so great because everyone puts their perspective in, and I take away so much more than I normally would.

 

[disneyaway]

Oh and awesome on the PR for the half marathon, HockeyKat!!!

 

[El&Asmom]

Love your video

I have done a 5K in April then a 4 mile race, I am planning on the 15K downtown in November also, (Running for Chocolate!!) I have not registered waiting on DH's schedule.

Would you want to post where in Chicago you are?
I'm in South Burbs, Near Joliet

RUNNING FOR CHOCOLATE!! I need to google this race. It may be a good one since I am doing a 5K and 10K this fall. It would be good to see how I do in an even longer race to prepare for the half. And if chocolate's involved I will be able to finish for sure!

I'm in Glen Ellyn for all you Chicagoans. I do most of my running on the Prairie Path which I love. At least when it's not flooded from rain.

 

[El&Asmom]

Agreed. It didn't fill up until January last year.


Btw, finished the Chicago RnR today. 2:49, compared to my 3:11 Princess 2010.

Congrats! I have a friend who ran it today. I'll have to see how she did.

I may have to sign up for that one next year. How was it?

 

[HockeyKat]

Congrats! I have a friend who ran it today. I'll have to see how she did.

I may have to sign up for that one next year. How was it?

Thanks!

It was fun! Well, "fun" for a half anyhow. It seemed pretty well organized, lots of water stops, large expo, etc.

However, I have to say I enjoyed the Princess a lot more. Then again, I am not really that into music, so I think the bands were rather lost on me.

It was a humid and then warm when the sun came out, but not that bad I guess... 70-75 with about 70-80% humidity.

It was cool to run through the city and along the lake and such. I lived in Chicago for 4 years before moving to NC 10 years ago, so it was rather like hey I remember that! and that!!

Plus, it's local for you!

 

[DIS-OH]

Thank you- and Kat-- for posting. I totally can see where DIS-OH is coming from and I appreciate that perspective. I can see how it's frustrating to have the assumption made that you are not listening to your body and that's why you must be in the medical tents. But for a newbie like me, it's great because those are things I have to make sure I look out for regarding my training. It's important for me to see how one can not listen to their body and have to make use of the medical tents. Likewise, it's great to read about how listening to your body can lead to using the medical tents. These boards are so great because everyone puts their perspective in, and I take away so much more than I normally would.

All I asked was that people stop making generalizations...which is dangerous in both real life and "board" life.

For example, I have seen a lot of posts about training using the "Couch Potato to 5K" plan...lots of posters highly recommend it, but for me it was a horrendous, tramatic plan...I was in so much pain in week 3 that I gave up...and didn't try running again for 2 whole years! Every time I see a post about the plan, I want to reply, "don't do it! It is painful!"

However, I wouldn't want my experience with this particular plan to dissuade someone else from trying it--because it might a plan that works for them.

Nor do I want someone to read a "glowing recommendation" of this plan and feel like a miserable failure because they couldn't complete the plan and then they give up any and all running--like I did for 2 years.

There is no "perfect" plan or training method the fits everyone...and it would be dangerous to generalize and say, "this is the only way to do this."

Bottom line...I just want anyone who has that little voice in her head saying, "maybe I can do it" to get out there and give it a try!

I am a School Principal...last year, when I made the decision to register for the Princess Half-marathon, I told one of my students about it and asked her if she thought I could do it. This nine-year-old angel looked me right in the eye and said, "You can do it if you believe."

And, that is what I want for everyone...to make the decision, believe in herself, and find a training plan that works for her--no matter what level of fitness she has today, and to feel like she belongs in this race--not because she is a "runner," but because she is brave enough to set a goal and celebrate her inner Princess!

 

[HockeyKat]

All I asked was that people stop making generalizations...which is dangerous in both real life and "board" life.

For example, I have seen a lot of posts about training using the "Couch Potato to 5K" plan...lots of posters highly recommend it, but for me it was a horrendous, tramatic plan...I was in so much pain in week 3 that I gave up...and didn't try running again for 2 whole years! Every time I see a post about the plan, I want to reply, "don't do it! It is painful!"

However, I wouldn't want my experience with this particular plan to dissuade someone else from trying it--because it might a plan that works for them.

Nor do I want someone to read a "glowing recommendation" of this plan and feel like a miserable failure because they couldn't complete the plan and then they give up any and all running--like I did for 2 years.

There is no "perfect" plan or training method the fits everyone...and it would be dangerous to generalize and say, "this is the only way to do this."

Bottom line...I just want anyone who has that little voice in her head saying, "maybe I can do it" to get out there and give it a try!

I couldn't agree more, about all of it.

I had the same experience with C25K. It made me say I hate running and not try it again for years. It definitely works for a lot of people, though!

I get the same feedback about my Galloway run/walk... a lot of people don't like it, but it's my saviour.

I promise to think more before posting. Today I am tired and posting without thinking, sorry again.

 

[swim-mom]

Lets get back to the "hear and now" ..........we all have a goal, lets keep moving towards it - ONE STEP AT A TIME

(keep negative posts to a min.)

Please note: C25K, is a proven plan has been proven to be effective. However, like with everythingh in life individual results will vary - if you like it great if not - move on.

Way to much time wasted on this...........

 

[natale1980]

Love your video

I have done a 5K in April then a 4 mile race, I am planning on the 15K downtown in November also, (Running for Chocolate!!) I have not registered waiting on DH's schedule.

Would you want to post where in Chicago you are?
I'm in South Burbs, Near Joliet

We are west of Naperville.
I'm running the Chocolate too!!! That is the 15k I plan on doing. Maybe I'll see you there!!!

-nat

 

[SummerIrmoma2_3]

We are west of Naperville.
I'm running the Chocolate too!!! That is the 15k I plan on doing. Maybe I'll see you there!!!

-nat

Wow I think I need to find a chocolate run

I have a quick general Disney question, kind of, it is Princess HM related though. When you book a room only ressie you just pay the first night's deposit up front, right? Then do you pay the rest when you check in? or is it due so many days out similarly to the package? I have only done packages in the past and I am trying to figure out how I am going to work my trip for the HM since I was kind of planning on using some of my tax return for it.
Thanks a bunch.

 

[MeredithRX]

I'm not sure how it works if you make a reservation through the regular resort reservation line. I made mine through the WDW-IRUN number to get the room discount at a host resort and in order to get a room in the 'race block' of rooms they have set aside at the discount, you have to put a deposit down and the rest is due Jan 10th.

I was surprised by this since I have only made room-only reservations in the past and was always allowed to pay the balance at check-in. I'm really going to have to try and remember to pay the balance before the deadline!

 

[Spottedprincess]

Hey Everyone,
I am 4 weeks into my training for the Princess Marathon. Not in 2011 but in 2012. I am recovering from 2 ACL graft surgeries and extensive knee damage. Before my accident I had made it a goal to run/walk a full marathon. Now I am happy to have the OK by my Docs to train for a 1/2 marathon. My training started with a few 10 min walks 3x a week. Slow and steady. My knees and calves can't afford anymore injuries. I will do some 5k and 10ks as my training progresses. I know it may seem way far off to many, I am so excited to be able to look forward to achieving my goal,completing a 1/2 marathon. What makes this really special is I am going to be doing it with my sister. You Go Girl!!!

 

[cantwaitvaca09]

http://www.hotchocolate15k.com/

Link to the chocolate race

 

[need_a_Disney_fix]

All I asked was that people stop making generalizations...which is dangerous in both real life and "board" life.

For example, I have seen a lot of posts about training using the "Couch Potato to 5K" plan...lots of posters highly recommend it, but for me it was a horrendous, tramatic plan...I was in so much pain in week 3 that I gave up...and didn't try running again for 2 whole years! Every time I see a post about the plan, I want to reply, "don't do it! It is painful!"

However, I wouldn't want my experience with this particular plan to dissuade someone else from trying it--because it might a plan that works for them.

Nor do I want someone to read a "glowing recommendation" of this plan and feel like a miserable failure because they couldn't complete the plan and then they give up any and all running--like I did for 2 years.

There is no "perfect" plan or training method the fits everyone...and it would be dangerous to generalize and say, "this is the only way to do this."

Bottom line...I just want anyone who has that little voice in her head saying, "maybe I can do it" to get out there and give it a try!

I am a School Principal...last year, when I made the decision to register for the Princess Half-marathon, I told one of my students about it and asked her if she thought I could do it. This nine-year-old angel looked me right in the eye and said, "You can do it if you believe."

And, that is what I want for everyone...to make the decision, believe in herself, and find a training plan that works for her--no matter what level of fitness she has today, and to feel like she belongs in this race--not because she is a "runner," but because she is brave enough to set a goal and celebrate her inner Princess!

I totally agree with everything you are so eloquently saying and what I highlighted stood out to me and THANK YOU!

 

[swim-mom]

http://www.hotchocolate15k.com/

Link to the chocolate race

OMG - this looks amazing!!!!

my bday is the 13!, but my DH will be in Austrailia and then Sweden for work --- will have to see if my aupair and my MIL could come up with a plan

 

[Rupert B Puppenstein]

Congratulations Kat!! You did great and I love hearing about your experiences. I was right behind you at the Princess - I got 3:13 so I am hoping to slightly improve the time. Thanks to your encouragement and a few others, I am going to go for the WDW Marathon. I just entered the training schedule into my planner so no rest for me after Disneyland. It does seem a bit overwhelming at this point writing such large numbers, but I think it will be a great experience. I love the group on this forum and do not feel that there is any judgement of anyone here. We are all completing different training programs and none of us are professional marathoners - just people who really like Disney medals!

My bucket list just entailed completing one 1/2 marathon because I always thought that was out of reach, and now I will have 3 1/2 marathons and a marathon under my belt within a year of when I first ran the Princess. I have a shortened achilles tendon due to cerebral palsy, and hip replacement is most likely in my future, but if I could have prevented that, I sure would have! I know that the first advice any of us give when anyone asks about the race is to train and prevent injuries - we recommend the plans that we are doing because we know them, but in the end it is your choice as an individual to find one that will work. There are walking plans and running plans and I prefer Hal Higdon because his don't push too hard. The best thing I did to keep on track was to find a running group. I felt more accountable that way. But, I know that there are other plans that are just as great. Listen to your body and if this is your first race, just let your goal be to finish. Because at Disney there really is no difference between the first person or the last person to cross the finish line. We are all winners who get up super early, freeze a bit, and get the same shiny medal that we can't help but show off!

I know that some people are in the tents for a good reason, but there are plenty of people that didn't really train for this. How did I learn this? By standing in the myriad of lines we had to at the Expo, the corral, walking to the corrals and walking with some ladies during the race. I was fortunate to not injure anything because the moment one of my hips started to ache, I walked it. I could have pushed myself, but I decided to take it easy, get to know some of the fellow Princesses and take in the sights. I was able to walk just fine at the end and surprisingly wasn't even sore...but what I hope people learn from is my after race routine.

I didn't listen and take a cold shower or bath or take a dip in the cool pool afterwards, I didn't eat until an hour after, I didn't hydrate myself enough afterwards and went for playing in the parks and eating then. Not moving was my worst mistake and deciding to drive back to Atlanta that very day (7 hr. drive) was absolutely stupid. It turned me into a person that could hardly move by the time I got home. So, you can bet I would hope people would learn from my mistakes. I sure have!

On that note, I need to get new running shoes today...I thought that the running store guy was crazy saying you needed new shoes every six months but he was right! Now to decide if I should stick with the Nike Lunar Glide+ or try out a new shoe. Decisions...Decisions...

There are so many inspirational people on this thread...and it will be fun to meet so many of you (hopefully) in February or before then!