Largest Database of Results for Athletes
Disclaimer: I'm writing this review of Athlinks as part of being a BibRavePro. Use Athlinks to Track Your ProgressAthlink uses information from race directors and athlete communities to fill the database. When results are posted online, the Race Director sends files and/or links to the Athlinks team. Athlinks uploads the information to the website and database. I had 30+ races done when I opened my free account. It was fun to create my profile, then link to all my races. It didn't take long to assemble all my stats on Athlinks. Now, I see my progress all in one place. While I'm not the fastest runner, progress keeps me motivated. Athlinks gives you a few ways to view your race results:
  Feeling competitive? Click the Rivals tab (shown below) to see how you compare to other runners. If you run the same race as someone you follow, Athlinks keeps tabs on who beats who.    Plan Your Race Schedule with AthlinksWhether you're already registered, or looking for your next race, Athlinks is an impressive planning tool. Use it to view upcoming races so you can plan for training and recovery. To find a new race, enter an event name, date range, location, and/or type of event. Hit search and Athlinks will show your results. Below are results from searching for races near Tampa, Florida between May and December, 2018.  As you can see, there are clickable links for previous years. Use those to see stats on the race. You can search results, see the number of participants, winning times, weather, etc. You'll find a lot of useful info. BTW, there were more results than I'm showing here. Free Training Plans and AdviceYep, there's more than statistics. Athlinks has resources for endurance athetes. You'll find advice on training, gear, and nutrition. Visit the Athlinks Blog for details.  Featured Events and Destination RacesHave your eye on a special race? You'll find plenty of featured events and destination races on Athlinks.com. There are descriptions of racecations for foodies, special attractions, charities, and landmarks. FYI, I want to run the Pittsburgh Half Marathon next May.  You'll also find articles on gear, coaching, the best races for first-timers, races for people who like to party, and more. There's An Athlinks Mobile AppTake Athlinks with you using the mobile app. You can stay up-to-date with race details using the official event feed. Share your race with family and friends. The mobile app has animated maps that predict your location during an event. Your peeps can track you on course. It's perfect for meeting up during and after the race.  Join the Athlinks Community!Go ahead and follow me on Athlinks. You probably run faster than I do, and that's okay. I'm just here to make you look good! You're welcome. #AthlinksBR #Athlinks #RaceIgnited #PoweredbyAthlinks #BibRave #BibRavePro #TrackYourResults #RaceResults #RaceSchedule #Statistics #PR #ThisOldRunner
I Have Lots of New Discounts for You (Graphic credit: This Old Runner) Visit my Running Gear Discounts page to see the latest promo codes. Take advantage of the discounts to save money on these running essentials:
Hurry up and use these discounts while they're available. I'm so happy I can offer them as part of being a BibRave Pro. #Rudy #RudyDiscountCode #Godspeed #GodspeedDiscount #AfterShokz #AfterShockzDiscount #BrilliantReflective #BrilliantReflectiveDiscount #KTTape #KTTapeDiscount #LuvoMeals #LuvoDiscount #ShadyRays #ShadyRaysDiscount #ThisOldRunner #Discounts #PromoCodes #RunnerDiscounts #BibChat #BibRavePro
Price Increases May 27 for Bigfoot Tri & Trail Compete in the beautiful Lake Geneva, WI area on June 23-24. Disclaimer: I'm promoting the Bigfoot TRI and Trail Races as part of being a BibRavePro. Learn more about becoming a BibRavePro (ambassador) and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews! Register for the Bigfoot TRI and Bigfoot Trail at Bigfoot Beach State Park! The trail races are on Saturday, June 23. The triathlon is on Sunday, June 24. All events take place in beautiful Lake Geneva, WI. Every participant gets the hydration pack pictured above in their goodie bag! Score Bonus Sunglasses with My CodeUse my promo code: “BRBigfoot” for BONUS Ram Racing shades! You’ll be ready for summer with a new hydration pack and sunglasses! Register for the Tri, 5K Trail or 10K Trail RunDon't wait! The price increases on May 27th. Register for the TRI or Trail now at: https://www.bigfoottriathlon.com/ #BigfootBR #Triathlon #JuneTRI #RaceWI #BibRavePro #BibChat #RacePromo #BonusCode #BigfootRace #RamRacing #ChicagoRaces #SummerTri #BigfootBeachStatePark #LakeGeneva #BigfootTRI #BigfootTRAIL #Bigfoot
Costumes at October races are expected. The same is true at any Disney event. But now, people dress up for St. Patrick's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and even non-holiday races. Why? Because costumes make any race fun for both runners and spectators. And, the race distance doesn't seem to matter. I've seen costumes in 5Ks, halfs, marathons, and trail races. There's no reason you can't PR in a costume. But, if your outfit malfunctions it can ruin your race. Keep reading for tips so that doesn't happen to you. Disclaimer: I'm promoting Pumpkins in the Park 5K as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRavePro ambassador and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews. Confirm Costumes are Allowed at Your RaceThere are security issues at many races. Check the race rules. Are costumes allowed? Are there any restrictions? Some races don't allow masks or certain types of accessories. Find out before you make your costume. Brainstorm Costume Ideas
Make a Runner Friendly CostumeOnce you have an idea, you need to make it runner-friendly. What does that mean?
Headwear Try not to wear a wig. Wigs are hot. If you can use temporary hair color instead of a wig, you'll be cooler. If it's a winter race, go ahead and wear a wig instead of a hat. Headbands are okay, but attaching things to them can be a problem. They're going to bounce around while you run. See if you can adhere your accessories to a race cap for stability. If you want to wear something like a cowboy or leprechaun hat, make sure it will stay on your head. Remember, a chin strap is annoying after a few miles.
Start with Athletic Base Pieces Definitely wear something under your costume. Ideally, your base layer should be moisture-wicking gear. If you have a total costume fail, you can run in your base clothing. If you can't find the right base pieces in standard running gear, check golf apparel. You may find a golf skirt or polo in the color or cut you want for your costume. Golf clothes are usually made of moisture-wicking material. Expect to sweat more in a costume. Overheating can lead to painful chafing. If possible, add some holes for ventilation. Plan on using Body Glide or vaseline to avoid blisters and raw skin. Create Your Own Shirt Designs If you're skilled at Photoshop or Illustrator you can design your own costume shirt. Printing on performance wear tanks and t shirts is easy. Try a local custom shirt store, or upload your design to an online vendor. Masks If masks are allowed in your race, make sure yours doesn't obstruct your vision. Make sure you can breathe, too. It can be hard to breathe through a mask. And what about drinking at aid stations? If a fabric mask gets wet it can cling or chafe.  (Photo credit: Florida Road Races) Face Paint Pointers Want to paint your face? Face makeup can be a problem if you sweat. It can smear, run down your face, stain your clothes, get in your eyes, etc. It's a gamble unless you use theatrical makeup. For extra stability, use a professional setting spray to set your makeup — but keep it away from your eyes. P.S. Bring towels to use after your run! Do a Test Run in Your Costume
Even if you made a runner-friendly costume, it's important to go on a test run. Make sure you can see and move in it. Practice at night if you don't want to alarm your neighbors. A test run is the only way you'll know how your outfit performs in race conditions. It's best to discover problems early and fix them. Another obstacle can be using the port-o-lets before, during, and after the race. Can you get in and out of your costume? Practice so you're ready on race day. Solo, Duo, and Group CostumesIf you're running solo, you can be whatever you like. Check out My Running Costumes for the ultimate one-of-a-kind crafty race costumes. They're amazing! If you have a running friend, team up for a duo costume. I've seen some great two-person costumes — hamburger and french fries (AKA Fast Food!), Wicked Witch and flying monkey, Kermit and Miss Piggy, taco and hot sauce, etc. If you have several runners, use your numbers. Pick a costume that looks good multiplied. Be a swarm of bees, minions, or a pumpkin patch. More is fun!
 A group of Candy Corn race in Lincoln Park, Chicago at the Pumpkins in the Park 5K. (Photo credit: @RamRacing #PumpkinsInThePark5K) Want to Buy Your Running Costume?If you're not interested in a making costume, it's easy to buy one online. GoneforaRun.com has a large selection that covers everything from princesses to pumpkins to patriots. You can buy all the pieces, or just one. Or, have someone else make your costume. Search Etsy for some excellent choices. I'm in love with the Tigger race outfit shown below. It's by the talented Etsy artist/seamstress at iglowrunning. It will cost more to have someone else make your outfit, so weigh that against your budget. Another option is to check thrift stores and resale shops.
Race Costume Contest PrizesYour random Saturday in May race costume probably won't get you a prize, but most Halloween races have legit costume contests. The Ram Racing Pumpkins in the Park 5K has prizes. Prizes are awarded for the Best Original Costume and Best Group Costume. The race also has an Elite Division with cash prizes for the fastest runners— in or out of costume. Have Fun Racing in Costume!Don't take your costume too seriously. It's suppose to be entertaining for you and the spectators. There's no need to stress out over it. Just have fun. Consider that you may need to remove part or all of your costume if it malfunctions, hurts, or becomes dangerous (can't see, trip, etc.). Drop things at aid stations without worrying about littering. Don't be surprised if spectators comment and cheer as you pass. Decide if you'll stop and take pictures or not. It can be fun to stop for selfies — especially if you find a matching or rival costume. Wearing a costume may slow your pace, but the bottom line is to have fun! #PumpkinsinthePark5K #BRPumpkins #RamRacing #LincolnPark #Chicago #HalloweenRaces #RaceCostumes #BibRavePro #BibChat #RunChicago #DisneyCostumes #DIYRunningCostumes #SuperHeroCostumes #BuyRunningCostumes #MakeRunningCostumes #CouplesCostumes #GroupCostumes #RunningCostumes
Whether you've been a runner for ten minutes, or all of your life, you should try the new CTM Band. I've used mine for a month now. I'm really happy with the results. Keep reading to find out why. Disclaimer: I received a CTM Band to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!
 The CTM Band is available in blue, green, yellow and red. It's easy to keep clean by wiping it with a damp cloth. (Photo credit: CTM Band) CTM Band Combines Compression, Tension, and Movement for True Myofascial ReleaseMyofascial what? Myofascial (my-o-FASH-e-ul) release is a manual therapy technique used in massage. Self-myofascial release means you do it yourself. Basically, you apply gentle sustained pressure into your muscles and connective tissue to stop pain and restore motion. The pressure relaxes the muscle and improves blood and lymphatic circulation. This relieves tightness and knots. It also stimulates the stretch reflex in the muscle. Genuine Myofascial massage must include movement (stretching) and pressure (compression band + trigger points) to release the trouble from your muscles. The CTM Band let's you put a trigger point on the tight spot, then apply compression and stretch. The result? Pain relief and faster muscle recovery. CTM Band Versus Other Recovery ToolsCTM Band Therapy is more than a compression band or a pressure point. Why? Because it combines compression plus tension plus movement for true Myofascial massage. Foam rollers, balls, and massage sticks give you pressure and movement, but no compression. Floss bands give you compression and movement, but no pressure. If you want to remove accumulated adhesions from your fascia (and you do!), you need compression and movement while you apply pressure. The CTM Band is the only recovery tool that uses all three essential elements. That means you don't have to use multiple recovery tools to relieve your muscle soreness. You can speed up recovery with one tool that's easy to take to races, the gym or on a racecation. My Experience with the CTM BandI was using several types of recovery tools: a foam roller, trigger point balls, and a floss band. Each tool helped, but I needed all three to take care of everything. My foam roller does a great job of working out tight spots on my back, thighs and shins. But, there are some muscles it will never reach. The roller is stiff and doesn't adapt.
I had a spot on my right calf that bothered me for months. I could loosen it with my foam roller, but it kept coming back. Now, I wrap it with the 4 trigger points and stretch before every run. Problem solved. I can wrap my knee or ankle and stretch with the CTM Band. I can get that tight spot on my shoulder or bicep, or the bottom of my foot. I even wrapped the CTM Band around my waist with the trigger points on my lower back one day. It worked on my achey muscles. I was satisfied with my compression band until I used the CTM Band with the trigger points. The trigger point balls let me pinpoint the tight spots. I got results faster with the CTM Band than a standard compression band. Next, I tried the CTM Band on my feet. I used two of the four trigger points on the bottom of my foot, wrapped it with the band, and stretched back and forth. It felt really good. The compression and the trigger points hit the spot. It was much better than rolling my feet on a spiked massage ball. The CTM Band puts what I need into one recovery tool that's easy to carry. I can take it to the gym, a race, or outside to stretch in the sunshine. I even use it while I'm a passenger in a car. That's a win for me. CTM Band Relieves Runner Aches and PainsThe CTM Band works on lots of runner problems. I suggest you visit the CTM website to watch the videos on the correct way to use the band. If you suffer from any of the following issues, the CTM Band can help you recover. You also can watch explainer videos on the CTM Band YouTube Channel.
Pre-Workout Stretches and Warm UpHave you ever had a tight spot BEFORE a run? I have. I used to stretch a bit and hope it would work itself out by mile 2 or 3. Now, I'm using the CTM Band before my workouts with good results. I wear it while I go through my stretches. It makes my muscles feel relaxed and ready to run. The CTM Band is a wonderful recovery tool, but it also works when you use it during your dynamic warmup. Save 20% with Discount Code "CTMBIBRAVE"The CTM Band costs $40. I feel it's worth it — I use mine every day. Plus, it has a lifetime guarantee. If you hurry, you can save 20% with my discount code: CTMBIBRAVE. FYI: The CTM band is 4 inches wide by 7 feet long — plenty of band to wrap those muscles. It has a maximum stretch of 150%. You can order your band here. I hope you will! #CTMBand #DiscountCode #PromoCode #CTMBIBRAVE #CTMBandBR #BibChat #BibRavePro #MyofascialRelease #CompressionBand #Flossing #SelfMyofascialRelease #DOMS #DelayedOnsetMuscleSoreness #RunnerProbs #ITBandSyndrome #ITBand #ShinSplints #RunnerPain
Have you heard about Plogging? There's been a lot of it going around here lately in celebration of Earth Day. Yet, it's a great idea any time of year. The word "Plogging" is a combination of "jogging" and "plocka upp," a Swedish term for picking up. It refers to stopping to pick up trash while you run. It's a nice way to reduce litter and show appreciation for the places where we run and walk outside.  I realized while running trails that if I'm wearing FlipBelt Crops I can stash trash in the 360º pockets. I grabbed this wrapper and an empty water bottle on my trail run. (Photo credit: This Old Runner) Plogging Started in SwedenPeople have been plogging in European countries for a while. Now, the idea is getting popular with U.S. runners. The first Facebook group, Plogga, showed up in January 2017. You can find dedicated Ploggers on Instagram, too. My favorite is Plastic_SolutionPollution. All you need to plog is a place to put the trash you find. Take a grocery bag or a garbage bag. You may want to bring a pair of gloves. If you want to plog in a group, look for local activities organized by Keep America Beautiful.
Plogging on Trails vs City StreetsI spotted trash out on the trails the other day. Not cool, hikers. Not cool. Since I was wearing my FlipBelt Crops (of course!) I realized they were perfect for plogging. It was easy to grab food wrappers and bottle caps and put them in my pockets. I decided next time I'd stash a bag and gloves in my FlipBelt Crops for a serious plogging session. I think plogging works best on trails, or less busy suburban routes. You're able to run and pick up trash. If you're on city streets with heavy pedestrian traffic, it's more challenging. In most cities, it's lots of picking up and little running. I've read about running groups that run first, then take 20-30 minutes afterwards to pick up trash. That's certainly an easier way to plog in the city. Plogging Can Be a WorkoutSome runners like to run a route once with an eye out for trash, then repeat the course to pick it up. I use this method when I run around a nearby lake. However you plog, it's good for the environment, and adds stretching and squatting to your workout. In fact, the Swedish fitness app Lifesum, lists plogging as a fitness activity. If you're wondering, it burns 288 calories in 30 minutes. Disclaimer: I received a pair of FlipBelt Crops to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews! SAVE 25% on Your Own Pair of FlipBelt Crops Use the code: "BIBRAVE" when you order online and SAVE a whopping 25% on your own pair of crops. Visit FlipBelt.com right now to get yours. You can read my reviews of FlipBelt Crops here and here. #Plogging #Ploga #Plog #PickUpTrash #FlipBeltBR #FlipBelt #FlipBeltCrops #EarthDay #Conservation #Environment #BibRavePro #BibChat #KeepAmericaBeautiful #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunSarasota #RunTampaBay #KAB #ArborDay
 The Cereal Crew! (Photo credit: RamRacing.org) Don't Let the Children in Costume Fool You! Disclaimer: I'm promoting Pumpkins in the Park 5K as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews! That's Right! If you meet the qualifying standards, you can join the Elite Corral at the #PumpkinsInThePark5K this Fall in Chicago! Elite Corral runners are eligible for cash prizes. Now, that doesn't always happen at a 5K! To qualify, you must submit proof of performance from a similar event. See the chart below for specifics.
 Note: If you don't submit proof by the deadline, you'll be placed in an alternate corral and will NOT be eligible for the prize purse. Placement in the Elite Corral is on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't wait! Assignment is not guaranteed. You can verify your corral assignment in your Ram Racing account. Think you have what it takes to win or place? Cash Prizes for Elite RunnersHere's the deal. There's a cash purse for runners in the Elite Corral. The Top 3 overall Men and Women in the Illinois Elite Corral will receive awards. The awards structure for 2018 is as follows for both the men and the women:
In addition to the overall prize money, the top overall male and female finisher who beats the existing Pumpkins in the Park 5K record wins an additional $100. Current #PumpkinsInThePark Records to BeatMale Event Record is 14:48. Run by Dan Kremske of Woodstock, IL in 2016 Female Event Record is 16:53. Run by Katie McMenamin of Lafayette, CO in 2017 Athletes must be accepted into and start with the Elite Corral in order to be eligible for the prize purse. Failure to do so will result in ineligibility. How to Apply for the Elite Corral Elite men winners. (Photo credit: RamRacing.org) If you'd like to be considered for the Elite Corral (and be eligible for the prize money), you must be a US Citizen and you must have proof of a qualifying finishing time from a previous race. To apply, register for the race and select the Elite Option during registration, and when submitting proof of results. If you already registered, and want to be considered for the Illinois Elite Corral, email your proof of qualification AND your confirmation number to elite@ramracing.org.  Elite women winners. (Photo credit: RamRacing.org) Proof of QualificationAny of the following is considered acceptable proof of your race time:
Proof of U.S. CitizenshipThe prize money and elite corral are only open to U.S. Citizens. You'll be asked for proof of citizenship at packet pickup, and on race day when you get your bib. Accepted proof of citizenship includes the following:
Register Before the Price Increase on June 3rd!#PumpkinsBR #PumpkinsInThePark #Chicago #5K #OctoberRace #PromoCode #BonusSWAG #RamRacing #BibRavePro #BibChat #GoodieBag #Elite5K #PrizeMoney I'm kinda in love with these! Here's why:  (Graphic credit: This Old Runner) SAVE 25% on Your Own Pair of CropsUse the code: "BIBRAVE" when you order online and SAVE a whopping 25% on your own pair of crops. Visit FlipBelt.com right now to get yours. Disclaimer: I received a pair of FlipBelt Crops to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews! #FlipBeltBR #FlipBeltCrops #FlipBelt #BibChat #BibRavePro #DiscountCode #PromoCode #SaveOnFlipBeltCrops
 (Graphic credit: This Old Runner) The Bigfoot Triathlon, 10K and 5K Trail Races, in Lake Geneva — Of Course!He'll be in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Come join the fun at the #BigFootTri or a 10K or 5K #BigFootTrail Races. Even if you don't see you know who, you'll have a great time in this beautiful setting on June 23-24. Read all about the events here. Disclaimer: I'm promoting the BigFootTri and Trail Races as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews! Score Sweet Shades with Code: "BRBigFoot"The events are hosted by Ram Racing — the people who always give out great goodie bags. This year everyone who participates gets a BigFootTri Hydration Back Pack. And as if that isn't enough, use my code "BRBigFoot" and you'll score some sweet Ram Racing shades. You'll be set for summer!
Register Before the April 29 Price IncreaseDon't wait to register. The price increases on April 29 for all events. Register at BigFootTriathlon.com — right now!! #BigFootTri #BigFootTrail #LakeGeneva #BigFoot #RamRacing #SummerTri #BibRavePro #FreeSwag #PromoCode #RunBigFoot #BigFootBR #BibChat #BibRave Do You Like to Run Hands-Free?
I don't want to hold stuff or tie it to my wrist or arm when I run. Carrying a water bottle, phone and fuel makes me feel clunky. I want to run like Phoebe!
But, if you run far from home like I do, you have to carry your stuff. That's why I was excited to try FlipBelt Crops. Keep reading to learn more.
Disclaimer: I received a pair of FlipBelt Crops to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews!
FlipBelt + Running Capris = FlipBelt Crops
Fit and Function
The front pockets have two access points. You can slip any size phone in there, and still grab it easily to take photos on your run.
Even with the phone in there, you'll have plenty of room to stash your keys, fuel, snacks, water and more. There's a key hook sewn in. Just secure your keys and push them into the pocket. FlipBelt Crops have a rear zipper pocket, too. It's easy to access, and works well for small items (jewelry, cash, money cards). The zip pocket is separate from the rest of your storage. By the way, the rear pocket is big enough to hold your phone.
FlipBelt Crops are real tech activewear. The built-in FlipBelt waistband blends form and function into a unique pair of running and workout pants.
I took my FlipBelt Crops on a 7-miler the first day I had them. I didn't feel or think about my phone while I was running. The belt fit snug, but not tight. There was no bouncing or jostling. I didn't have to adjust anything while I ran. I placed my phone in the front pocket for my run. That made grabbing it and taking pictures super easy. The phone slid in and out of the pocket in seconds. The anti-chafe flat seams and moisture-wicking material made these capris very comfortable in the Florida heat and humidity. The material is soft and opaque. Something I really, really, really liked is that the sizing was true-to-size. Bonus points for that! Storage Capacity
I doubt I'll ever need more than a few gels during a race. BUT, if I do I'll store them all in my FlipBelt Crops! That's right. I tested the capacity.
I probably could have fit more, but you get the point, right? (Photo credit: This Old Runner)
Watch the Unpacking!
It's amazing to see what fit in there! (Video credit: This Old Runner)
Save 25% Off With Code "BIBRAVE"
Get your very own pair of FlipBelt Crops at a 25% discount when you use my code: BIBRAVE. Visit FlipBelt.com right now and order yours.
I'll meet you outside and we can run like Phoebe! #FlipBeltBR #FlipBeltCrops #FlipBelt #BibChat #BibRavePro #DiscountCode #PromoCode #SaveOnFlipBeltCrops |
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Hey there,This is where you'll find me writing instead of running. (But, you know I'll be writing about running, right?) 
Yep, smiling's my favorite.
Another happy finish line!
Click the BRP logo to save money on your favorite races and gear. #BibRavePro
Price Blitz for the 2020 BDR Races begins on April 10th with Safety Harbor. After the blitz, SAVE $5 on ANY race in ANY city when you register w/ code: THISOLDRUNNER. Safety Harbor; Orlando; New Orleans; Savanah. Visit my Race Discounts page for more details. #BDR
Upcoming Races: April 20, 2019
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