This Old Runner Writes About Running

Full Review of My 2023 Garden of Life Palm Beaches Half Marathon Weekend

12/17/2023

Disclaimer: I received entry to Palm Beaches Marathon to review as part of being a BibRave Ambassador. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Ambassador, and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!

My First Garden of Life Palm Beaches Half Marathon

This was the first time I ran the Garden of Life Palm Beaches Half Marathon and I loved it. I think this race was the perfect way to cap off my running year!

It was a smooth operation from packet pickup to the finish line. Keep reading for details.

2023 starting line for Palm Beaches Half Marathon

The Half, Full and Relay began at 6 am on Sunday, December 8. (Image Credit: Palm Beaches Marathon)

Two Day Expo in Downtown West Palm Beach

The expo was Friday from Noon to 6 pm and Saturday from 10am to 6pm.

The 5K and 10K events were Saturday morning. The Half, Full and Relay were held on Sunday morning. There was no packet pick up on Sunday morning.

Everything was under a giant tent for the expo. It was easy to pick up your bib, shirt and goodie bag all in one place. It rained off and on on Friday, so I appreciated the tent.

There were a few local vendors, but no supplies for runners who forgot their socks or gels. There were race specific hats, shirts, and fleece available to purchase.

The main attraction was the Garden of Life display which showed runners a preview of what was inside their goodie bags. The goods came in a sturdy reusable canvas tote.

The expo was in the heart of downtown — surrounded by lots of restaurants, coffee shops, and holiday displays.

Parking was available in several nearby city lots for a reasonable price. If you stayed in a downtown hotel you could easily walk to the expo and race.

The Garden of Life goodie bag pick up tables. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Runners picking up their Garden of Life goodie bags. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

There were shirts, hats, and fleece available at the expo.

What's in the goodie bag? SO MUCH! (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Race Shirts + Goodie Bags

I love the long sleeve turquoise v-neck tech shirt I received as a half marathoner. The color is perfect. I know I’ll wear it often.

The goodie bags from Garden of Life were incredible. Just incredible! All kinds of Garden of Life product filled a generous tote bag. I’ve never received a goodie bag like this at a race before.

Ladies v-neck long sleeve, race medal, goodie bag tote and it's contents. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Race Day!

Time to get this race started! (Image credit: This Old Runner)

BibRave meet up before we run! (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Puppies! This was one of the aid stations on the course.

The Half Marathon was on Sunday morning. (5K and 10K were Saturday morning.) The race start and finish line were in the same place, which was close to the expo tent.

There were pacers for the half and full marathon. I ran with a pacer for the first 7 miles, then switched to run/walk method.

There were plenty of water stops with electrolyte and water. I think I counted 15 stops. There were also a few stations that offered energy gels.

I don’t know which volunteers were having the most fun at aid stations — there were puppies, energetic teens, and even a group dressed up as BARBIE. The Barbies offered water, sports drinks, music and constant “Hi Barbie” greetings to runners.

The Half Marathon Race Course

Half marathoners ran along the water on Flagler. We ran north to Manatee Lagoon, then turned south and ran waterside until mile 9.5 when we turned into a charming, older neighborhood. After almost 2 miles we returned northbound on Flagler to the finish line.

The course was flat and picturesque. Often there was a cooling breeze off the water. BTW, the full marathon is a Boston Qualifier.

Enjoyed running down Flagler. Up there on the left under the tents was a display of holiday sand castles. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Saw a few boats heading out for Sunday sails. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

The race offered free photos. I noticed photographers at the starting line, halfway, and finish line. This is me halfway through the race.

Downtown WPB was feeling festive for the holidays. (Image: This Old Runner)

I love water views on a run! (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Finish Line

After crossing the finish line, runners received an icy towel, bottled water and a gorgeous medal.

A few yards from the finish was a mimosa station. Inside the tent there were pancakes, bacon, sausage, orange juice, mimosas and bananas.

Finish line volunteers took good care of us. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

This is an icy green towel that felt WONDERFUL at the end of the race. (Image: Palm Beaches Marathon)

Whew! That was fun, but it's good to be done. (Image credit: This Old Runner)

And....DONE! (Image credit: Palm Beaches Marathon)

Pretty medal that exudes that Florida feeling! (Image credit: This Old Runner)

Mimosas were available at the finish line and in the food tent. (Image credit: Palm Beaches Marathon)

West Palm Beach in December? Yes, Please!

I’ve heard from other runners that the weather has been both hot and cold in the past. I thought it was just right this year. After training all Summer and Fall, this race felt good to me! (Sweaty, but good!)

If you’re looking for a smaller race (4K runners total) in a beautiful location — come run in West Palm Beach in December.

Thanks to the Race Director and Crew

Thanks to the race director and crew for an awesome job of hosting a beautiful race in a beautiful place!

#WPMarathonBR #WestPalmBeachHalf #GardenOfLife #PalmBeachesMarathon #BibRavePro #BibChat #WestPalmBeach #WPB #FloridaRaces #Racecation #FloridaRacecation #HoorayRunning #ThisOldRunner #RaceReview #PalmBeaches

Garden of Life Palm Beaches Half Marathon Medal Monday Recap

12/11/2023

The Garden Of Life Palm Beaches Marathon was a wonderful running tour along the waterfront and old neighborhoods of West Palm Beach.

I loved everything about my half marathon! I have a lot more to tell you about the race and expo, but for now, here’s a quick look at the colorful medal and beautiful course I ran yesterday.

I’m so happy we made the trip! It was a fun bonus to hang IRL with @annatolson, @bibrave @king_frankie85, @kickinit_withkristi, @reireiruns, @goals_sports_ and the @gardenoflife crew!

🏃‍♀️😊 Full race review coming soon!

#GardenofLifeWestPalmBeachesMarathon #PalmBeachesHalfMarathon #PBMarathonBR #BibRave #BibChat #ThisOldRunner #HoorayRunning #RaceDiscount #GoLPalmBeachesMarathon #BibRavePro #ThisOldRunner #FloridaRaces #HalfMarathon #WestPalmBeach #FloridaRaces #BostonQualifier #gardenoflife

Discount Code for Palm Beaches Marathon Weekend + Summer Training Check In

8/20/2023

Could This Summer BE Any Hotter?

This Summer in Florida has been tough, but I'm determined to power-through it.

The reality of 77° DEW POINTS and 100°F FEELS LIKE TEMPS is some days I opt for a walk instead of a run.

That's frustrating, but better for my overall health and heat survival.

So why keep running in this brutal heat and humidity? Because Summer running leads to happy races in the Fall and Winter.

That's my current mantra, by the way. It's important to remind myself daily that this will pay off later.

My 2023 Goal Race is Palm Beaches Half Marathon

In just 3 months and 18 days, I'll be running the Garden of Life Palm Beaches Half Marathon in West Palm Beach, Florida! I'm looking forward to the flat, fast course, the ocean views, and cooler temperatures!

As part of my training, I've included several races along the way to my goal half. Next week, I'm running a hilly 5K "up north" although I'm not ready. Hills are their own separate focus when you live in flat Florida. But, I'm super excited to race in a gorgeous setting with family and friends in lower temps and less humidity.

A month after the 5K, I'll race a 15K in Florida. That will be another fitness check, but in Florida weather.

I've spaced out my races so I have lots of training time between events. As my practice races get closer, I'm more excited about reaching my bigger goal in December. That's motivation, baby!

If you're looking for a Winter race, start training and join me in West Palm Beach this December.

There are lots of events over the weekend: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon, and Marathon Relay, and Challenges. And yes, I have a discount code below for you!

Save Money When You Register Before the September 14 Price Increase with My Discount Code

Save the most on your race when you register before the price increase on September 14th. All you have to do is use discount code: "BIBRAVE15" to SAVE 15% on any race or challenge event.

There are Virtual Options if you can't run in person, although believe me, you want to come to Florida in December! Additional info at GardenofLifeMarathon.com.

So many races! 5K, 10K, Half, Full, Relay and Challenges! #PBMarathonBR

FYI: Average December Temps in West Palm Beach

The temperatures in West Palm Beach in December rarely fall below 66°F or rise above 82°F. And, on the coldest day of the year (mid-January), temps range from 59°F to 74°F.

Make a plan to run in beautiful West Palm Beach with warm temps and water views. Check out the Palm Beaches website to plan your trip.

Register Now! Save 15% + Beat the Sept 14 Increase

#GardenofLifeWestPalmBeachesMarathon #PalmBeachesMarathon #PalmBeachesHalfMarathon #PBMarathonBR #BibRave #BibChat #ThisOldRunner #BibRavePro #HoorayRunning #GoLPalmBeachesMarathon #BibRavePro #ThisOldRunner #RaceGoals #FloridaRaces #HalfMarathon #WestPalmBeach

Review: Amphipod Hydraform Chiller™ Handheld Bottle

7/6/2023

New Amphipod Chiller is Made for Summer Runs

Ahhhh! I love this handheld bottle on my Summer runs! (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

I've been testing Amphipod's newest handheld water bottle for a month. It's Summer and it's Florida — so it's been a thorough test. I've used it on long and short runs, lots of walks, and even while working in the yard.

The Hydraform Chiller™ has an insulated ice wall to keep drinks cool. The bottle's ergonomic design includes an adjustable hand strap that keeps the bottle close without having to maintain a tight grip.

The locking leak-proof cap keeps liquids safe between sips.

Keep reading to learn more and see how it performed for me.

I've been testing Amphipod's newest handheld water bottle for a month. It's Summer and it's Florida — so it's been a thorough test. I've used it on long and short runs, lots of walks, and even while working in the yard.

The Hydraform Chiller™ has an insulated ice wall to keep drinks cool. The bottle's ergonomic design includes an adjustable hand strap that keeps the bottle close without having to maintain a tight grip. The locking leak-proof cap keeps liquids safe between sips.

Keep reading to learn more and see how it performed for me.

Amphipod Hydraform Chiller Handheld Water Bottle is Available in 12 and 20 oz. (Image credit: Amphipod Running)

Disclaimer: I received an Amphipod Hydraform Chiller™ to review as part of being a BibRave Ambassador. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Ambassador, and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews!

Minimalist Bottle for Active Individuals

You want to hydrate. You need to hydrate. But, you don't want to lug around a heavy water bottle.

It's time to check out the Amphipod Hydraform Chiller™.

This handheld is made for people who want to keep their water or electrolytes at hand during workouts.

The ergonomic design is lightweight and curved to fit the palm of your hand. There's an adjustable hand strap that loops around your thumb and makes the bottle comfy to carry.

No one I know wants to drink tepid or warm water during a run. That's why Amphipod added an insulated ice wall inside the sleeve that fits around the bottle. The freezable sections and triple insulated sleeve keep your beverage cooler for longer.

Yes, this bottle is made for running, but I used it for everything. I'm happy to report it worked well in a variety of situations.

Walks

Casual walks around the 'hood.

Gardening

Lots of gardening projects.

Yard Work

Weekly lawn mowing.

(Images credit: ThisOldRunner)

What If You Live in a Tropical Climate?

It's really hot and humid here. This Amphipod was put to the test! (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

I'm super pleased with the results! (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

My Experience with Amphipod Hydraform Chiller™

The bottle directions from Amphipod advise:

Place the empty bottle with the sleeve on it in the freezer (3+ hours or overnight)
Remove from freezer, fill with tap/room temp or cold water/fluid, put the lid on
Go run!

Before using, I fill my bottle 3/4 full of electrolytes and put the bottle and sleeve in the freezer overnight. Why? Because it's hotter in Florida than a lot of other places, and I always freeze my running bottles that way.

As you can see from the photo below, it's part of my normal running routine. Before I head out the door, I add enough liquid to fill my Amphipod and carefully screw on the lid.

My 12 oz Amphipod Hydraform Chiller joined the lineup in my freezer. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

The Insulated Sleeve is a Game-Changer

The most beautiful thing about Amphipod Hydraform Chiller is the sleeve. Why?

It kept my beverage cooler for a long time.
It provides an easy way to carry the bottle with the hand strap with thumb lock.
The sleeve absorbs all the moisture from the bottle which eliminates sticky electrolyte drips down your face and body.
I dab my face with the sleeve to help cool my face.
It's triple insulated and doesn't leak after a steady month of use.
The sleeve is easy to clean with a drop of dish liquid.

You can see the sweat on the back of my hand. You can't see that there's still some ice and lots of cold beverage inside my bottle after 45 minutes on the go. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

After nearly an hour, the ice is close to gone, but the drink itself is still cold. That's amazing in this climate. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

The combo of freezing liquids inside the bottle plus the insulated sleeve worked very well on this long run. The sleeve is saturated with coolness and my drink isn't warm. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Man, it felt good to put this cold bottle to my face and not get covered in more drips. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Cold drinks on a hot run make me a happy, happy runner. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Extra Tips

Like any new gear, I learned a few extra things during my field tests. Here are some tips for you.

Amphipod Hydraform Chiller Bottle with sleeve moved away from the cap.

When closing the bottle, make sure you pull back the sleeve when screwing down the cap. If the edge of the sleeve is caught under the cap it turns into a dribble situation.

Amphipod Hydraform Chiller Bottle has an adjustable hand strap.

I hold the bottle loosely by the strap during my warm up walks. This keeps my body heat away from the iced bottle until I'm ready to run. Every little bit helps in Florida temps.

If you use the thumb lock position, it's easy to forget you're carrying a bottle. It also reduces the feeling you need to squeeze the bottle tight so it doesn't drop.

View of Amphipod Hydraform Chiller Handheld water bottle.

I'm comfy holding the 12 oz. bottle with and without the thumb lock position. Later in my runs, I switch to a full handed hold to keep my hand cooler.

How to Clean Your Amphipod Hydraform Chiller™

I like to rinse everything off when I finish a run. This reduces dirt and stickyness inside and outside the bottle and insulation sleeve.

The plastic bottle is top-rack dishwasher safe. It's best to put the cap (spout fully extended) in the silverware bin so you don't lose it. DO NOT put the sleeve in your dishwasher.

Rinse or wipe off the exterior of the sleeve with a non-abrasive wet cloth. Use a drop of dish liquid if needed. Make sure you rinse it thoroughly so there isn't any soap residue.

Air dry the sleeve before putting it back on your bottle. Make sure it's completely dry before re-freezing.

Final Thoughts

I enjoyed using the Amphipod Hydraform Chiller™ handheld. Cool drinks beat warm ones on a run every time.

I tested the 12-ounce bottle and found it the perfect size and weight. If you often run longer distances, you may want to consider the 20-ounce bottle. I think a 20-ounce bottle would be perfect for hiking.

The 12-ounce bottle is $30 and the 20-ounce bottle is $35. After a month of testing, I think they are worth the price.

All in all, I recommend this bottle if you freeze it 3/4 full. The sleeve is an awesome addition that makes this bottle better than others I've used. Great product, Amphipod Running!

#AmphipodRunning #AmphipodBR #BibChat #BibRavePro #BibRave #ProductTesting #Handheld #RunningBottles #RunningGear #GearReview #ThisOldRunner #HoorayRunning #LoveTheRun #SummerRunGear #WaterBottle

Discount Code for Garden of Life Palm Beaches Marathon Weekend

6/12/2023

SAVE 15% on Palm Beaches Marathon Races

Looking for a beautiful, warm, Winter racecation? Here you go!

Choose a 5K, 10K, Half, Full Marathon, Marathon Relay or a Challenge at the Garden of Life Palm Beaches Marathon. Race weekend is December 9-10 in sunny West Palm Beach.

When you register with discount code "BIBRAVE15" you'll SAVE 15% OFF your registration.

Code "BIBRAVE15" = 15% OFF any race registration. #PBMarathonBR

Here's My Strategy for Palm Beaches Half Marathon

I know, I know. The race is 6 months away. But that's the best time to figure out your strategy.

If you make a plan now, you can factor in vacation and work obligations so they fit into your training, instead of derailing it.

Here's my training mantra: Set a Goal. Make a Plan. Get to Work. Stick to It. Reach Goal. This is pretty much my get-through-life mantra, too.

Make a Plan That Includes Shorter Races

One of my favorite things is finding races that fit into my training plan. Since Palm Beaches Marathon is in December, that means lots of Summer and Fall races are available.

I'll race a 5K in August, a 10K in September, and a Half in November in on the way to my goal race at Palm Beaches.

The beauty of this long-range plan is I can make changes. I've already switched my 10K between local races. I also can factor in less running during trips.

Get to Work. Stick to the Plan

I'm starting this training cycle with a 12-week plan to prep for a 5K. My last half was in February, so I want an easy plan. This one lets me acclimate to hot Summer weather and ease into consistent running again.

A month before my 5K, I'll transition into my 20-week half marathon plan.

Reach for Your Goal

After 6 months of reasonable training and a practice half done, I'll be ready to race for a PR at the Palm Beaches Half Marathon in early December.

Check out the course map below. Is there anything better than races with views of the ocean? Not unless it's in Florida in December!

The Garden of Life Palm Beaches Marathon is a flat, fast course. The marathon is a Boston Qualifier.

Ready Race in December? Save More Money When You Register Before the July 14 Price Increase

Make a plan to run in beautiful West Palm Beach with warm temps and water views.

Save the most on your race when you register before the price increases on July 14th. All you have to do is use discount code: "BIBRAVE15" to SAVE 15% on any race or challenge event.

Oh! I almost forgot to tell you. There are Virtual Options if you can't make it to Florida.

Additional info at GardenofLifeMarathon.com

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