This Old Runner Writes About Running

Two Weeks Until First Watch Sarasota Half

10/7/2019

It's getting closer. Just two weeks until my first half of the season! Last weekend, I used a 15K race as my long run. This weekend, I was on my own.

First, I made a plan:

Run Slow
Run More Hills Than Loops Around the Lake
Gatorade Endurance Gels at the Start, Mile 4, and 7 (Blackberry and Apple Pear)
Carry Gatorade Endurance Thirst Quencher (Watermelon)

And then I started running. I listened to several podcasts, which helped the time and miles go faster.

(Photos and video credit: This Old Runner)

Disclaimer: I'm promoting Gatorade Endurance as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews.

Sunday Long Run Stats:

24 oz 🥤#GatoradeEndurance Thirst Quencher 🍉
3 Gels 🍏🍐
2.5 Podcasts 🎧
2 weeks 'til First Watch Sarasota Half 🐬
1 Hidden Mural🖌️🎨
1 Sun Shower ☀️🌦️
= 10 Miles!

I feel good about my fueling and time on my feet. I'll be ready to run the First Watch Sarasota Half on the 20th. I'm excited to run the Ringling Bridge and earn my giant dolphin medal. #HoorayRunning!

#GatoradeEnduranceBR #Ad #MyFuelMyJourney #BibChat #BibRavePro #SeenOnARun #SceneOnARun #Murals

Time for More Fueling Practice with Gatorade Endurance

9/28/2019

Last Saturday, I ran the One Step Closer to the Cure 10K race as a training run. It's was my unofficial kick off of racing season.

As I've mentioned, I like how races keep me motivated during a training cycle. A race helps me check my pace and endurance progress. Plus, it's always easier to get a run done if you have company.

Saturday's race around downtown St. Pete was a good challenge for me. I'm happy with my effort. I used Gatorade Endurance gel for race fuel. I took one before the race and ran steady for all 6 miles. I carried a second gel as backup, but didn't use it.

I had Gatorade Endurance lemon/lime thirst quencher in my water bottle. There was water only at the aid stations, so I was happy to have the electrolytes. (It's still very hot.)

I needed more than 6 miles for my weekend long run so I laced up my running shoes on Sunday to add 4 more.

I think bright colors and fun flavors improve my runs. So, I wore my bright orange Bib Rave tank and fueled with mango Gatorade Endurance gels for my additional miles. I felt good and both runs went well. Hooray running!

Disclaimer: I’m promoting Gatorade Endurance and First Watch Sarasota Half as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

I ran a 10K as a training run. I fueled with Gatorade Endurance Apple Pear gel. Some of the perks of using a race for training is you get a shirt and medal and post race goodies when you're done. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Finisher medal for One Step Closer to the Cure 10K Race

Post race, I grabbed a 3 Daughters Brewing Florida Hard Seltzer and a Gatorade Whey Protein Bar. (Photo Credit: This Old Runner)

Finishing the One Step Closer to the Cure 10K. (Photo credit: CMOCF)

I headed out for more miles the day after my 10K race. Bright Bib Rave colors and yummy gel flavors kept me happy. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Another Weekend, Another Training Race

This Sunday, I'm running a 15K as a training race. It's a flat, fast course at the Fort DeSoto Distance Classic. After I run 9.3 miles I'll know if I'm ready for my upcoming half marathon.

My fueling plan for the longer distance is to take a gel 15-20 minutes before the race, one at mile 4, and another at mile 8. It's going to be warm from the start, so fueling and hydration matter a lot.

I'll carry a water bottle with Gatorade Endurance thirst quencher, and take advantage of the six aid stations on the 15K course. This race offers water and Gatorade on course.

Headed to the finish line in a previous Ft. DeSoto Distance Classic. (Photo credit: Florida Road Races)

2019 Fort DeSoto Distance Classic Medal.

The 2019 medal for the Fort DeSoto Distance Classic. (Photo credit: Florida Road Races)

Counting Down to My Goal Half Marathons

Oct 20: First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon

Welp! It's just three weeks until the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon. It happens October 20th on the waterfront, bridges, roads, and neighborhoods of Sarasota.

I'm nervous because this is an early season half marathon. It will be warm, humid, and sweaty. (Okay, I'm also nervous because I told everyone I want to PR!) But, it's one of my favorite courses, so I'm looking forward to running it.

If you want to join me in Sarasota, hurry up and register! The price jumps on October 12. Feel free to use my code: "BRSARASOTA19" to get $10 OFF the half or relay; $5 Off the 10K. They've added a 5K race this year, but I don't have a discount code for the 5K.

Use my code before the Oct. 12 price increase! SAVE $10 on the Half or Relay; $5 on the 10K with "BRSARASOTA19"

Nov. 17: St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon

Just one month after the First Watch Sarasota Half, I'll run the St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon in downtown St. Petersburg. It's my final half marathon in my 50s, and I'd like to PR this race, too.

I'm really excited about my big races. See you at the starting lines!

Progress Check: Fall Half Marathon Training

9/12/2019

Anyone Else Do This?

I just realized I've been matching my fuel to my shirts. It feels like a luxury since I have lots of Gatorade Endurance fuel in my training kit this Summer. Still, it made me laugh.

Video credit: This Old Runner

Disclaimer: I’m promoting Gatorade Endurance as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Time for a #MyFuelMyJourney Check-In

In August, I revealed that my Fall racing schedule includes two serious race goals. I want to PR the last two half marathons I run in my 50s.

Those PRs can be 30 seconds and I'll be happy. The real challenge isn't my finishing time, it's staying focused and getting in good solid training despite distractions.

Thanks to Gatorade Endurance, I'm training with the same fuel that's on course at the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon on October 20, and the St. Pete Run Fest Half on November 17. (Psst! Race discount for Sarasota Half here.)

I love Gatorade Endurance products, and training with the same fuel the races use gives me one less thing to worry about.

What I am worried about is whether or not I'll be fully trained by October 20th.

Goal Race #1 is the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon.

Goal Race #2 is St Pete Run Fest Half Marathon.

Training Work

It's been a super hot Summer. One of the hottest on record here in Florida. The humidity and heat make it hard to train hard. I substitute walks for runs on the really intense days.

In the past week, the early morning temps have dipped. It's only 78 degrees at 7:30 am now. That's encouraging. Running has been easier this week. Yet, I have to admit my 4-miler yesterday left me exhausted.

Training and Travel Don't Always Mix

I spent 2+ weeks out of town in August. It was wonderful to run in hilly locations and cooler temps. I managed to get my runs and cross-training done on most days.

The bad part about traveling was full days spent driving in a car. I always feel like a slug after sitting for 9 hours.

Races as Training Benchmarks

I'm smiling at the start of the 5K because it was 65 degrees! (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

This vacation 5k was hilly and fun! Beautiful course. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I found a local race to run while on vacation. It was a well-run event in a charming town.

It was pure pleasure to run hills in mid-60 temps in August. I was encouraged by my race results. Nothing crazy, but on track.

Speaking of races, one of my favorite ways to train for a half marathon is to incorporate races into my schedule.

It's tough to find long races here during the Summer, but by mid-September the longer races appear.

I'm running a 10K on September 21, then a 15K a week later. Those races fit into my weekend long runs for training.

If you don't uses races for training, consider it. It's a great way to get in a supported long run.

I like checking my pace against the race clock. And, running with a bunch of people is always fun.

Gatorade Endurance Hydration and Fuel

My thirst quencher collection includes Cherry, Watermelon, and Lemon-Lime. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Gatorade Endurance gels come in 4 flavors: Vanilla, Blackberry, Apple Pear, and Mango. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

As always, I try to be diligent about hydration. Gatorade Endurance formula is great for Floridians.

All we have to do is walk around the yard for 10 minutes and we sweat out all our minerals.

I can always tell the difference between drinking lots of water, and drinking lots of water AND Gatorade Endurance.

I don't have problems with dehydration when I drink all the GE thirst quencher.

As far as the energy gels — I like all the flavors. Blueberry, Mango, Vanilla, and Apple Pear. They go down easy with no after taste.

Plus, did I mention they match my outfits!

Where Am I With My Training?

Today, I'm glad I have another month to prepare for First Watch Sarasota Half. I'm excited about running my shorter benchmark races to get an idea about race day performances.

Although my half marathons are in October and November, it will be warm. Not brutal, but probably in the 70s while running. I'll keep prepping for hot and humid conditions.

Until then, I'll be fueling my journey and thankful that I'm healthy, happy, and running.

Good luck with your running goals. See you at the starting line!

#GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #MRTT #WeRunSocial #OptOutside #MyFuelMyJourney #SarasotaBr #StPeteRunFest #RunStPete #RunSarasota #RunFL #FloridaRunner #BestDamnRace #HalfTraining #BibRave #RunSafetyHarbor

My 4-Step Swimming Process

8/25/2019

I'm trying to cross-train as much as possible during this training cycle. So, I headed out to the pool. Do I just dive into the water and go? No. Here's my process:

Disclaimer: I’m promoting Gatorade Endurance as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Swimming is a 4-step process for me. Today, I swam laps, then spent serious time treading water and moving my arms. Treading water seemed to loosen my tight shoulder. It felt good to use different muscles in my shoulders, arms, and legs.

Sometimes it’s hard to remember to hydrate for water sports, but it’s so important. I drank @GatoradeEndurance Cherry thirst quencher today and loved the flavor. It was tasty, but not overpowering. I also used a Blackberry gel after about an hour. But, we already know I love all the gel flavors!

I’m training for First Watch Sarasota Half and 🏃‍♀️ the St Pete Run Fest Half on November 17. Both races use Gatorade Endurance on course, so I'm happy to be training with it. Just 8 weeks until Sarasota, and 12 weeks until St. Pete!

Click here for a discount code for First Watch Sarasota Half & Relay.

#GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #Ad #BibChat #BibRavePro #MyFuelMyJourney
#ShareYourStory #FormulatedForFarther #ThirstQuencher #RunnerFuel #RunSarasota
#RunStPete #RunTampa #RunFlorida #SarasotaBR #HalfTraining #BibRave #KeyWestHalfBR

This Fall, I'm Fueling My Journey with Gatorade Endurance

8/11/2019

I'm beyond excited about training for two goal races this Fall using Gatorade Endurance!

Both of my races, the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon and the St Pete Run Fest Half, serve Gatorade Endurance on course. So, using it for training is a perfect fit.

Gatorade Endurance supports runners of all shapes, sizes, ages, and attitudes. I learned this first-hand when they agreed to support my race goals with Endurance Formula products for my training. Hooray!

Keep reading to learn more about my goals.

Disclaimer: I’m promoting Gatorade Endurance as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Gatorade Endurance and Encouragement

Gatorade Endurance sent me a personal note and this package of wonderful gels and thirst quencher powder! They're helping me train for two half marathons that represent milestone goals for me.

Gatorade Endurance sent me a personal note and this package of wonderful gels and thirst quencher powder! They're helping me train for two half marathon goals this Fall. (Photo Credit: ThisOldRunner)

My Milestone Races

I want to run a personal best in my last two half marathons before my birthday. My goal is to end my 50s with fast finishes, then race right into my next decade.

But here's the rub. Summer training in Florida is brutal. Heat. Humidity. Stormy downpours. Bright sunshine. I actually like Summer, but it's so stinking hot here.

If you don't hydrate and fuel properly you'll melt. The temps and humidity make it hard to train. Inconsistent training makes Fall PRs a challenge.

I love the half marathon distance. It takes training, discipline, and dedication to complete 13.1 miles. It's a meaningful endeavor. But how to stay motivated?

This year, I'm sharing my goals publicly to stay accountable. It's always good to have cheerleaders and witnesses!

Crossing the finish line at the Sarasota Half Marathon.

Goal: Beat my 2015 First Watch Sarasota time.

Posing with my medal after the St Pete Run Fest Half Marathon.

Goal: Beat my 2017 St Pete Run Fest finish time.

My Endurance Running Story

I never (ever) expected to be a runner. As a kid, I ran around the yard. In high school, I ran to catch my bus. At 20, I maybe ran the bases in intramural softball — twice.

Despite growing up in a family of athletes, I was a spectator when it came to sports. I watched my parents, siblings, husband, and children participate. But, I never felt the need to compete.

My motto was, “No thanks, I hate to sweat.”

Everything changed when I saw my daughter run her first half-marathon. I was spectating at the starting line, and was surprised (shocked?) to see that everyone there wasn’t a 20 year-old thin mint.

My motto was, "No thanks, I hate to sweat."

And those people didn’t just start the race — they finished it!

I was so moved by everyone’s determination, I cheered for people I didn’t know as they crossed the finish line. Tears filled my eyes when my daughter received her medal. It was amazing. Inspiring. Just, wow!

My daughter inspired me to attempt running a half marathon.

One of my faves is running with her. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I began to wonder if, maybe — just maybe — I could run a half marathon. I started by walking.

I trained for 13 months before I finished my first half in February 2013. One medal, and I was all in.

Nine months later I ran/walked my second half. I’ve been running ever since.

Running has given me more than muscle tone. Running has improved my balance and agility. It provides an inner peace I didn’t realize I was missing.

The most important thing I’ve learned is to take my time and train smart. I’m patient with my progress. As a result, I’m healthy and moving.

P.S. I like to sweat, now!

I'm a Late Bloomer Athlete

When asked to describe my type of athlete, my first response is late bloomer. I'm happy about becoming an athlete later in life. When you start running at 52 no one expects you to run a 6-minute mile. Every achievement is a delight.

Since I'm an older runner, I pay extra attention to nutrition, rest, and recovery. I pace myself, and always respect the heat and humidity.

So far, patience has given me 7 years of injury-free running.

Why I'm Training with Gatorade Endurance

I'm using Gatorade Endurance for several important reasons:

Carbs plus potassium, sodium, and electrolytes in an easy to take and digest drink. These are vital when you train for hours. Hydration is everything in the heat.
Taste. I like Lemon/lime, Cherry, and Watermelon thirst quencher powder. Full disclosure: watermelon is my fave!
Energy Gel Flavors! Mango, Apple Pear, Blackberry, and Vanilla.
Gels that are fluid and easy to swallow on the run. These aren't sticky or super sweet. That means a lot to me in the middle of a training run or race.

I love that I'm training with the same fuel that's offered on course at my races. I don't have to worry about it on race day. I can focus on running.

Hand holding a Gatorade Endurance gel in mango flavor.

Mmmm! Mango! I fell in love with this flavor the first time I tried it. It's fluid and smooth and goes down easy while runnning. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Picture of Gatorade Endurance thirst quencher powder.

Gatorade Endurance loaded me up with lemon/lime, cherry, and watermelon flavors. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

When I set my mind on something, I try to follow this strategy:

1. Set a Goal.
2. Make a Plan.
3. Get to Work.
4. Stick to It.
5. Reach Goal.

So, I've set my goal (PR in two half marathons in a row) and made a training plan. It's time to do the work! The First Watch Sarasota Half is in 10 weeks. St. Pete Run Fest is in 14 weeks. Eeek!

Good luck if you're training for your own milestone races. Find me on Instagram and Twitter @ThisOldRunner. We can encourage each other.

See you at the starting line!

#GatoradeEndurance #ThirstQuencher #RunnerFuel #GEnduranceBR #BibRave #BibChat #BibRavePro #GEndurance #FuelMyJourney #MyFuelMyJourney #ShareYourStory #FormulatedForFarther #Ad #Fitness #FitnessInspiration #WeRunSocial #RunnersOfInsta #FitFluential #Motivation #GoalRaces #OlderRunner #RunningTowardsRetirement #MRTT #InstaRunner #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunSarasota #RunTampaBay

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