Official 2016 Princess Half Marathon Thread

[Luv2Run]

I ran a 10K for my POT, and netted my best 10K time ever! I'll chalk it up to the fact that I was running solo, and my Runkeeper app confused me so I thought I was slower when I was actually running faster than I thought. Chip time was 57:20, so I submitted my POT for PHM, and they have me at an estimated 2:06 finish time. If 2016's corral assignments are anything like 2015's, that'll put me in Corral D or E. I was in corral E this year, so ehh, that's ok.

 

[preciouspups]

I ran a 10K on Sunday. There was also a kids fun run, a walk, and a 5k. I finished the 10K in around 1:03 (a minute faster than my last 10K race!) but of course things were pretty picked over by the time I got to the food area with all the people who had finished the shorter events. There was no chocolate milk left. There was nothing with any protein in it. Spectators were clearly eating food. I really need to do a better job of packing my own post-race food. When my sister finished there was no one handing out water at the finish line. Not cool.

That is so frustrating and yet so common! We did a 1 mile a few months ago and it had a 5k with it. By the time I found the water, it was nearly gone and it was just dixie cups at that. All of the food was gone and there were still 5k people coming in. It is a free series that the Army puts on. They guaranteed shirts for the first 500 people and when I signed up, there were about 900 registered. Well, most of those people didn't show up so they had shirts left.

 

[Ariel484]

107 days to go...almost in double digits!!

 

[disneydaydreamer33]

Curious as to what everyone's training weather is now that we are into November! I am still at my parents' in California where it is finally rainy! It looks like when we drive back to Utah this week, there will be snow on the ground (eek!). Taking mental stock of my winter running gear. Those of you that run in the below freezing temps, what do you wear?

 

[Ariel484]

Curious as to what everyone's training weather is now that we are into November! I am still at my parents' in California where it is finally rainy! It looks like when we drive back to Utah this week, there will be snow on the ground (eek!). Taking mental stock of my winter running gear. Those of you that run in the below freezing temps, what do you wear?

We still have decent weather here (NE Ohio)...for my run on Saturday it was 50 degrees and slightly overcast, which is about perfect for me. For that run I wore a long-sleeved tech shirt and tights.

For colder weather I use the above as a base and sort of layer on top of that. Some of the stuff I have...

Running tights (I have the Brooks Utopia Thermal Tight) - these are thicker than what I wore this weekend (which were these)
Running jacket (I have the Brooks Utopia Thermal Hoodie) - I have 2 running jackets, this is the warmer one. I have a lighter Nike jacket as well.
Gloves - don't always use these (Shine Wind Mitt from Pearl Izumi)
A good pair of sunglasses for when the snow is bright and blinding (I have Oakleys)
Sunscreen, always
Face/neck cover (I have the Blue Lime Peacock one) - I only use this when it's super cold out. Mostly I just keep it around my neck but it could also go over my nose/face. I also have a tech tube on order, which I think would serve a similar purpose

I've had some of these thing for a few years now so the links may not work 100% correctly.

I make sure to wash all of my tech gear according to the tag instructions, which is normally in cold water on delicate cycle, hang it to dry. That seems to help my stuff last, which is good because all of those things I listed are PRICEY!

That's basically it. In general I just try to layer with tech fabric, and once I warm up and start running I feel comfortable - I much prefer running in cold weather vs. hot weather. I'll draw the line if conditions are unsafe (insanely cold, icy roads/sidewalks, things like that). I know some people buy things to attach to their shoes so they can run in ice...I haven't ever tried that, not sure I really want to.

 

[Luv2Run]

Curious as to what everyone's training weather is now that we are into November! I am still at my parents' in California where it is finally rainy! It looks like when we drive back to Utah this week, there will be snow on the ground (eek!). Taking mental stock of my winter running gear. Those of you that run in the below freezing temps, what do you wear?

I just checked Accuweather since it's been unseasonably warm here for this time of year (mid-60's during the day, mid-50's at night). Even with the rain we've been having. It's even supposed to reach 80 degrees here on Friday, which is just nuts to me. As of right now, we're not forecasted to get any really chilly weather until mid-December, which is fine by me. After the eternally-frozen winter we had this past year, I'm reluctant to start freezing my butt off again.

Typically, when temps drop below 45 degrees, and depending on if the sun is out or it's overcast/raining, I'll wear layers: sports bra, running tank, moisture-wicking run shirt, zip-up jacket, gloves, running pants (may throw on a running skirt over it to keep my bum warm in really frigid temps). Really, really cold weather, I'll throw on a knit cap and my compression sleeves under my jacket, with a balaclava (can be pulled down and used as a scarf), and a puffer vest. As you can see, I absolutely HATE running on the treadmill and will just bundle up to run in the cold. The only times I'm forced to run inside is when there's ice on the ground. I'm not very graceful, so I'd be Bambi On Ice out there, which I don't want to risk injury when HM training.

 

[keahgirl8]

Curious as to what everyone's training weather is now that we are into November! I am still at my parents' in California where it is finally rainy! It looks like when we drive back to Utah this week, there will be snow on the ground (eek!). Taking mental stock of my winter running gear. Those of you that run in the below freezing temps, what do you wear?

Honestly, I get so hot when I run that don't do many layers. I have a Champion hooded jacket (which I usually take off halfway through), and I wear either Old Navy or Adidas pants. I have a pair of cheap gloves from Target that I wear (and also remove part of the way through).

 

[hauntedcity]

So, this is from the Avengers page, but it is the same set of rules I've seen the last two GSC. My sister deferred PHM 2014, and I considered deferring this year but didn't. This should give you an idea of the rules. I can't recall how long it took before it opened up, but I'm guessing it will be maybe 1-2 months before? I checked and it's not there for WDW marathon weekend yet.

As far as I recall, you must defer to the same weekend. And you don't get a refund, your fees (minus the processing fee) are applied to the race you defer to.

From the runDisney.com website, under the registration tab for Avengers weekend:

Deferral Policy & Request Process

• Deferral requests are on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to capacity limits.
• Once deferral capacities are full, no further deferrals can be taken and no exceptions can be made.
• Deferrals are not available for the Avengers Super Heroes 5K or runDisney Kids Races, or any other race weekend purchases.
• Ancillary Events and/or Commemorative Items cannot be refunded if you Defer.
• If you are currently registered for the Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon, Infinity Gauntlet Challenge, or Captain America 10K in 2015 you may apply to defer your registration. Deferral requests will close on November 11, 2015, or sooner depending on deferral capacity, as some categories may fill sooner than others.
• Deferral requests will be assessed a $55 processing fee.
• Request a Deferral.

Thanks for the info.

Just as I thought the door was totally closed, it opened again JUST A TEENY, TINY BIT. We would have to cut the trip down to 2 nights (Fri & Sat) and fly home at 3pm on Sunday, but we may still make this work.

Any fingers crossed, lucky horseshoes, 4-leaf clovers, or voodoo ceremonies are welcome and appreciated!

Doug

 

[bumbershoot]

There was no chocolate milk left. There was nothing with any protein in it. Spectators were clearly eating food. I really need to do a better job of packing my own post-race food.

I would cry. No chocolate milk?

I pack everything in. ON-course stuff, too. Doing the January Half at WDW this year, the Gu table was empty by the time I got there, and I wasn't the last to finish by a long shot. Absolutely nothing but empty Gu wrappers. I can't tolerate Gu so it didn't mess me up, I had my own shot bloks. But to those who were counting on that? Utter devastation.

I rarely have anyone at a finish line, but this weekend's RnR Vancouver Half was awesome because hubby and son were there with my Vega One post-run bar, my chocolate milk, etc. Those, along with the included beer, helped me feel human VERY quickly. Best recovery yet (and that's with the 10K the day before), because I got those things down the gullet so fast.

I'm sorry, I don't mean to rub your nose in it; but YES, bring your own stuff in. If there's stuff for you at the finish line, then bonus, you get to keep your stuff for later! But if there isn't, you're covered.

 

[MyFavEeyore]

I've seen so many wonderful and beautiful costume ideas for the runs during PHM weekend. However, I've also read where it has been so cold that there is no way possible runners were able start running with just their costumes on i.e. sparkle skirts even with tights underneath. How do you all manage those gorgeous pre-race pics without freezing, and the underlying main question...what does one where in those wee early hours until the sun comes up?

 

[preciouspups]

I've seen so many wonderful and beautiful costume ideas for the runs during PHM weekend. However, I've also read where it has been so cold that there is no way possible runners were able start running with just their costumes on i.e. sparkle skirts even with tights underneath. How do you all manage those gorgeous pre-race pics without freezing, and the underlying main question...what does one where in those wee early hours until the sun comes up?

A friend said that last year she didn't realize it would be so long between corals when she checked her jacket. She stood in that bitter cold for an hour and a half waiting for her start.

 

[Luv2Run]

I've seen so many wonderful and beautiful costume ideas for the runs during PHM weekend. However, I've also read where it has been so cold that there is no way possible runners were able start running with just their costumes on i.e. sparkle skirts even with tights underneath. How do you all manage those gorgeous pre-race pics without freezing, and the underlying main question...what does one where in those wee early hours until the sun comes up?

The weather varies so much year to year, that it's hard to predict what will and will not be comfortable. Last year, I was good-to-go in just my tank top, light jacket, running skirt and tutu. This year, not so much. I had layers upon layers upon layers that were shed by mile 4. My "cute run outfit" pics are usually taken after I cross the finish line.

 

[joan4mickey]

The weather has been mostly warm...the second year was the coldest. I worn my long sleeve shirt until mile 4 and then tossed it. Cheap mitten/gloves from the dollar store are good. I have picked up 2 for $1. Just toss them as needed. I roll mine together as they collect the clothing and take it to something like Goodwill, I am not sure what organization. I have picked up fleece blanket for less than $5 at Garden Ridge now called something else. I just leave it at the start. I have worn sleeveless shirt until this past year. If sun is an issue, around mile 7 or 8 we run right into it, plan accordingly. Mylar blankets must come off before the start or put away as the block the chip reader and your start time will not get recorded.
That's all I can think of right now.

 

[purplekicks]

Those that got bibs through a TA...

Have you received hotel information to book your rooms? Mine is still saying they are finalizing all the info. I hate waiting til the last minute to do things.

 

[srauseo]

I'm sorry, I don't mean to rub your nose in it; but YES, bring your own stuff in. If there's stuff for you at the finish line, then bonus, you get to keep your stuff for later! But if there isn't, you're covered.

Lesson learned, for sure.

Submitted my POT this morning. Anticipated finish of 2:18. I can't believe I am going to run for more than two hours straight!

 

[bumbershoot]

Anticipated finish of 2:18. I can't believe I am going to run for more than two hours straight!

Dang! nice time. (I'm much slower)

Don't worry, the training plan will take you beyond it, if you're following the official one.

 

[srauseo]

Dang! nice time. (I'm much slower)

Don't worry, the training plan will take you beyond it, if you're following the official one.

Yeah - I am pretty much following the plan. Running three days a week. Two 30 minutes runs during the week and a long run on the weekend. Mostly running at a moderate pace but starting to add in more hills and some minutes at a faster pace time. I would have never believed I would/could run anything more than 5 miles. But the plan definitely seems to be working for me.

 

[keahgirl8]

I would cry. No chocolate milk?

I pack everything in. ON-course stuff, too. Doing the January Half at WDW this year, the Gu table was empty by the time I got there, and I wasn't the last to finish by a long shot. Absolutely nothing but empty Gu wrappers. I can't tolerate Gu so it didn't mess me up, I had my own shot bloks. But to those who were counting on that? Utter devastation.

I rarely have anyone at a finish line, but this weekend's RnR Vancouver Half was awesome because hubby and son were there with my Vega One post-run bar, my chocolate milk, etc. Those, along with the included beer, helped me feel human VERY quickly. Best recovery yet (and that's with the 10K the day before), because I got those things down the gullet so fast.

I'm sorry, I don't mean to rub your nose in it; but YES, bring your own stuff in. If there's stuff for you at the finish line, then bonus, you get to keep your stuff for later! But if there isn't, you're covered.

You can usually check a bag somewhere, so even if you're alone you can bring your own stuff. I always bring a banana and coconut water. I never used to bring my own banana until I went to a race where they ran out!

Lesson learned, for sure.

Submitted my POT this morning. Anticipated finish of 2:18. I can't believe I am going to run for more than two hours straight!

You will be able to do more than you can imagine if you follow the plan to the t.

 

[bumbershoot]

You can usually check a bag somewhere, so even if you're alone you can bring your own stuff.

OH totally, but this time it was almost immediately handed over. [Remembering last year's W&D when first my buddy and I waited forever in the S line and then shorter in the B line for the checked gear bags, but then the bag was hiding in the B tent and it took a hundred years (in the cold and rain and WET and cold) to find it...that was a long long wait for our chocolate milks... That delay was likely why we felt so extra-cruddy and didn't go to the afterparty.] The utter luxury of my little care team was fun. And since RnR Vancouver started on the later side (official start was 8:15) and I'm so slow with the Half, they didn't even have to get up early to come meet me!

And for me, my stomach has a time limit on it. If I'm eating inside of ~15 minutes, I can do it, can eat for a short-ish period of time comfortably. If it's 16 minutes, the stomach is shut down, and I cannot eat (or drink, not even beer), for hours and hours, without absolutely forcing myself, which makes me feel horrible. It's NOT good. Having the food in my gear bag isn't always useful b/c of my ridiculous stomach.

I definitely cite that early-food/chocolatemilk as being a big reason why I recovered so well from my first back to back event!

 

[srauseo]

And for me, my stomach has a time limit on it. If I'm eating inside of ~15 minutes, I can do it, can eat for a short-ish period of time comfortably. If it's 16 minutes, the stomach is shut down, and I cannot eat (or drink, not even beer), for hours and hours, without absolutely forcing myself, which makes me feel horrible. It's NOT good. Having the food in my gear bag isn't always useful b/c of my ridiculous stomach.

I definitely cite that early-food/chocolatemilk as being a big reason why I recovered so well from my first back to back event!

The only thing that saved me after that race on Sunday was that I had tucked a reese's peanut butter cup in my bag from my niece's Halloween candy. And as soon as we got home I had a nice plate of chicken parm.