This Old Runner
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    • 2021 Races >
      • REVIEW: 2021 Tampa Hot Chocolate 15K 5K
      • Hot Chocolate 15K Watercolor Journal
    • 2019 Races >
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      • 2019 World Refugee Day 5K
      • 2019 Pittsburgh Half Marathon
      • 2019 Rugged Maniac Dade City
      • 2019 Copperhead 5K at the Valspar Championship
      • 2019 Best Damn Race
      • 2019 St Pete Beach Classic Duo
    • 2018 Races >
      • 2018 First Watch Sarasota Half
    • 2017 Races >
      • 2017 Madeira Beach Sunset Series
      • 2017 Best Damn Race Leftover 5k
      • 2017 May Day 10K
      • 2017 5K on the Runway
      • 2017 Valspar Par 4 Miler
      • 2017 Sarasota Music Half
      • 2017 SPB Beach Classic
      • 2017 Kettle Krush 5K
    • 2016 Races >
      • 2016 Caladesi Island 10 Miler
      • 2016 Ronnie's Run 10 Miler
      • 2016 Weedon Island Preserve 8K
      • 2016 Fort DeSoto 15K
      • 2016 One Step Closer 10k
      • 2016 Hippie Dash 5k
      • 2016 May Day 10K
      • 2016 FL Beach Half
      • 2016 SPB Beach Classic
    • 2015 Races >
      • 2015 May Day 10k
      • 2015 Weedon Island Preserve 8K
      • 2015 Fort DeSoto 15K
      • 2015 Honeymoon Island Half
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This Old Runner Writes

 

40th Annual Jingle Bell Run DTSP

12/9/2022

 
Every December for more years than I can count, we've run the Boley Centers Jingle Bell Run in downtown St. Petersburg. It's a fun tradition that always puts me in the holiday spirit. Here are a few pictures from this year's event.

​It felt like fewer people this year, but there were lots of musical entertainers along the course, and plenty of festive lights in downtown. 
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The race start and finish line was next to North Straub Park.
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There were at least 10 musical groups along the 3 mile course.
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Luminaria were a fun and festive way to line the course.
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Most runners added lights, jingle bells, and holiday hats to their outfits.
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All the sparkly lights in Straub Park reflected on Vinoy Basin.
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Santa's winter wonderland was ready for visitors. Those drippy lights are my favorite.
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The Silver Alerts and Ed Carter were the first and last band on the course. Thanks, guys!
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A snow machine just past the finish line added to the holiday feelings.
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In Florida, Santa's sleigh is apparently a red convertible!
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I love these dog tag style medals that Boley Centers has given out the past few years. It's the perfect size and memento.
That's a wrap on another holiday run, thanks to Boley Centers! #EndTheStigma

What's In The Bag? Turtle Gloves New Performance Wear Mitten Hoodie

12/8/2022

 
Check out my latest cool weather running gear! It’s Turtle Gloves Performance Mitten Hoodie. Your hood and mittens are built in, so they’re there when you need them, and they’ll make it all the way back home with you. (I hate when I lose gloves and hats.)
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The CONVERTIBLE mittens give you options…start out with your mittens on for full coverage; after you warm up, convert them into fingerless gloves.

​When you don’t need them anymore, just fold them back into a cuff on your wrist. It's super easy to do while running. 

I chose a bright orange hoodie so I feel safe running on city streets. #TurtleGloves performance mitten hoodie also comes in gray and green colors.

Stay tuned to see how my new hoodie works in action. Cooler temps are coming, and this is going to be my go-to outer wear!
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Never (EVER) lose your mittens on a run again!
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Close up view of the built-in mittens!

Disclaimer: I received a Turtle Gloves Mitten Hoodie to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about being a BibRave Pro, and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

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The new Turtle Gloves Performance Mitten Hoodie is made of wicking material and lined with a lightweight fleece. #TurtleGlovesBR

SAVE 20% with Code "TURTLEBIBRAVE"

Psst! I have a Discount Code for you: “TURTLEBIBRAVE” = 20% off at TurtleGloves.com

#TurtleGlovesBR #BibChat #BibRavePro #RaceGear #DiscountCode #HoorayRunning #GearDiscounts #ThisOldRunner

Discount Code for 2023 Gasparilla Distance Classic Races

11/16/2022

 

SAVE $5 on ANY Gasparilla Distance Classic Race

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I have a new discount code for you. Save $5 with discount code "BIBRAVE2023" when you sign up for any race at the Gasparilla Distance Classic (GDC).

And believe me, you have plenty of options! The GDC offers a 5K, 8K, 15K and Half Marathon distances over two days. This year races take place in downtown Tampa on Saturday, February 25 and Sunday, February 26.

Packet Pickup takes place at the huge health and fitness expo on Friday, Feb. 24rd and Saturday, Feb. 25th. The expo is open to the public.

​There's also FREE Junior Gasparilla Distance Classic event for kids age 2-10. This race is held the weekend before at Jefferson High School.

Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Gasparilla Distance Classic to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about being a BibRave Pro, and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

It's Time to Start Training and Tracking

This week marked the beginning of my Gasparilla half marathon training cycle. I'm super excited to run the Gasparilla Distance Classic FOR THE FIRST TIME! 

I can't believe it's taken me so long to run this race. It's an awesome event, but usually conflicts with other races and events. But now, at last, I'm running it and want to make the most of it.

​I'm giving myself extra training time — in hopes of really smashing this flat, fast course in February. (And, to give myself some flexibility during the holidays.)

Fingers are crossed, and I've started running and tracking my progress in a new training journal. I find when I write things down I do a better job of consistent training.
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Image credit: ThisOldRunner
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Choosing my watercolor palette for my Gasparilla Distance Classic Training Journal. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)
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Getting started on my Gasparilla Distance Classic Training Journal with their iconic parrot logo. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Register Early to Guarantee You're at the Start Line

The Gasparilla Distance Classic is a popular race weekend. All the races will sell out, so if you want to run a single race, a challenge, or all the races — go register now.

​February in Florida is a beautiful place for a racecation.
Use Code "BIBRAVE2023" to SAVE $5 on Your Race!
#GDC #PGDC #PGDC2023 #RunGasparilla #RunTampa #RunStPete #DiscountCode #GasparillaDistanceClassic #GasparillaHalf #BibChat #BibRavePro #RaceDiscount #HoorayRunning #ThisOldRunner

Recap: My Virtual EQT Pittsburgh 10-Miler

11/7/2022

 

I Ran the Most Pittsburgh Race Ever . . . in Florida

Each November, P3R hosts the "Most Pittsburgh Race Ever" to celebrate all things Pittsburgh. Since that's my hometown, I enjoy participating even when I can't get there in person.

This year, the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler celebrated its 10th Anniversary with more than 4,100 participants. The popular 10-miler added a new 10K distance, which encouraged more people to participate. Local bands and Pittsburgh-themed miles kept runners engaged, entertained and motivated all along the race courses.

Keep reading to see how I adapted my virtual Pittsburgh 10-miler to my current locale. Along the way you'll learn more about the in-person race!
Pittsburgh skyline from the river in front of Point State Park.
EQT Pittsburgh 10-Miler icons.

Disclaimer: I received an entry to the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about being a BibRave Pro, and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

In Person and Virtual Starting Lines

The EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler began on West Carson Street by Station Square and Highmark Stadium. The first mile featured a salute to Military and First Responders. After crossing the West End Bridge, runners ran through the Mr. Rogers Neighborhood Mile.
For my virtual race, I walked outside and started running down the street.
Starting line for Pittsburgh 10 Miler
The starting line in Pittsburgh. (Image credit: P3R)
Neighborhood sidewalk
My starting line. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

A Beautiful Day for a Run in Any Neighborhood

The Mr. Rogers Neighborhood Mile celebrated the 10th anniversary of Daniel Tiger, and a beautiful day in Pittsburgh's neighborhoods. Volunteers wore red sweaters as a nod to Mr. Rogers.

It was a beautiful day for a race in my neighborhood, too. My virtual race featured an inflatable, but it wasn't as cute as Daniel Tiger.
Mr Rogers Mile volunteers during the Pittsburgh 10 Miler on November 6, 2022
Mr. Rogers is one of Pittsburgh's favorites. The volunteers in Mr. Rogers Mile wore red sweaters and big smiles. (Image credit: P3R)
Scary Monster Inflatable
Inflatable on my race route. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)
Daniel Tiger inflatable during the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler
Daniel Tiger inflatable during the Mr. Rogers Neighborhood Mile. (Image credit: P3R)
Blue sky and shade trees on a brick street in St Petersburg, Florida
It was a beautiful day for a 10-miler in my neighborhood, too. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Dick's Sporting Goods City of ChampYINZ Mile

During the Dick's Sporting Goods City of ChampYINZ mile runners could high five or race the mascots from Pittsburgh's major league baseball, hockey and football teams. The Pittsburgh Steel Drum Line provided vibrant music to keep runners moving through miles 3-4 through the North Shore.

While I didn't run into the Pirate Parrot, IceBurg or Steely McBeam, I did see this skeleton still hanging out a week after Halloween.
Pittsburgh Parrot, Pierogie and Iceburgh Mascots
Seen on the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler race course in Pittsburgh. (Image credit: P3R)
Halloween decoration of skeleton sitting on a swing hanging from a tree.
Seen on my run in St. Pete. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Pittsburgh Entertainment Mile

Mile six began on the 16th Street Bridge and represented the Pittsburgh Entertainment Mile.

Runners and walkers were greeted by Kenny the Kangaroo (Kennywood Park), and Ricky Raccoon and Duke the Dragon (from Idlewild Park).

​The iconic Kennywood Racer roller coaster received a nod as runners chose to run in the red or blue rollercoaster car. (IYKYK)

There weren't any amusement park reenactments on my race course. 
Entertainment mile of the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler race.
Pick a car – red or blue – and see who finishes first! (Image credit: P3R)
Pretty park with lake in the background
My virtual race course choices involved running next to the water and farther out. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Pittsburgh's Food Mile Featured Pickle Juice, Pierogies and Smiley Cookies

Pittsburgh is home to the Picklesburgh Festival, Pierogies, and Smiley Cookies. Of course the most Pittsburgh Race Ever showcased these 'burgh icons. Runners could drink a pickle shot or taste a cookie and pierogie during mile 7.
​​Here in St. Pete, I found a pumpkin display featuring palm fronds. Oh, and lots of humidity.
Runners drinking pickle juice at EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler
In Pittsburgh, runners could toast with pickle juice during the Food Mile. (Image credit: P3R)
Pierogies given to runners during the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler race
The EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler is known for offering pierogies as on course fuel! (Image credit: P3R)
Hay bales, pumpkins and palm fronds displayed for Fall
My virtual Food Mile featured pumpkins I could not eat. (Image credit: ThisOld Runner)
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I heard it was humid in Pittsburgh on race day, but I'm here to tell you that Florida humidity is tougher than Pittsburgh humidity. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Finish Line Fun

There were lots of local bands playing along the in person Pittsburgh course to keep runners and walkers entertained all the way to the finish line.

​There weren't any live bands on my course. But, I did have my own music to keep me motivated as I ran through some of my favorite places.

After 10 miles, 4 iconic Pittsburgh neighborhoods and 3 bridges, runners finished the most Pittsburgh Race Ever on Liberty Avenue with a street party. 

When my watch hit 10 miles, I kicked up my feet and relaxed on my front porch.
Runners crossing the finish line of the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler race.
The in-person EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler & 10K finish line was on Liberty Avenue in downtown. (Image credit: P3R)
Pittsburgh water bottle on table next to runner's feet.
Of course I carried my Pittsburgher water bottle on my virtual run! (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)
Bib Rave Pro after running a 10 mile virtual race.
After 10 miles all around my neighborhood and parts of the city, I was happy to finish my 10-miler on my front porch. (Image credit: ThisOldRunner)

Virtual Runners Can Post Their Race Results Online

Virtual race results are self-reported. It's easy to log into your Race Roster account and enter your time. You can download a finisher certificate, too.
Virtual Results banner from race website.

In-Person or Virtual, We All Get Pittsburgh SWAG

I'll be repping my favorite hometown this winter with my new EQT Pittsburgh 10-Miler quarter zip pullover, finisher medal and beanie.

Virtual runners receive their swag via USPS after the in-person race. 

While I would rather run the most Pittsburgh race IN Pittsburgh, this virtual race was a lot of fun. Training for it kept me motivated throughout the Summer. The race management did an excellent job of communicating via email and social media.

​If you get a chance, get yourself to Pittsburgh and run through the city! 
2022 EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler medal, quarter zipe and beanie SWAG.
2022 EQT Pittsburgh 10-Miler quarter zip, medal and beanie. (Image credit: P3R)
2022 EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler medal.
2022 EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler finisher medal. (Image credit: P3R)
Visit the Official EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler Website

#Pittsburgh10Miler #EQTPittsburgh10Miler #Pgh10MileBR #Pgh10Miler #BibRavePro #VirtualRace #HoorayRunning #DiscountCode #PromoCode #RaceCodes #Pittsburgh #4Run2 #P3R #RunPittsburgh #SteelCityRunners #BibChat #MostPittsburghRaceEver #MedalMonday #SeenOnARun #SceneOnARun

2023 BibRave Ambassador Applications are Open until November 7, 2022

10/30/2022

 

Who are BibRave Ambassadors?

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an amazing community of runners, movers, and fitness loving content creators! ​Applications for 2023 BibRave Ambassadors are open now.

BibRave Ambassadors unlock free endurance race entries, test out new products, rep some sweet swag, and enjoy an amazing community of runners, movers, fitness enthusiasts, and more!

BibRave is accepting applications for content-creating athletes (of all levels!) through 11/7.

Head over to https://bit.ly/BibRaveAmb2023 and apply now! 🧡 

Try and Review Running Gear, Fuel and Races

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Test new products and share your knowledge and discount codes to introduce them to fellow athletes. (Image: ThisOldRunner)
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Run races and share what you learn about them through social media posts and videos. Distances include everything from 5Ks to Team Ultras, plus Virtual Options and Obstacle Course Races. (Image: ThisOldRunner)
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Take shoes on test runs and review them! (Image: ThisOldRunner)
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Share your adventures and experiences with other runners, bikers, and endurance athletes. (Image: ThisOldRunner)

BibRave's Engaged Ambassador Community

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As a member of the BibRave community, you'll connect with other BibRave athletes and influencers. There's a BibRave Ambassador network of 150 content creators who enjoy connecting and collaborating.

The very active BibRave Slack Channel includes education, shout-outs, book clubs, advancing DEI issues, collaborating on campaigns, and lots more. Ambassadors meet IRL at races and other events.

BibRave Ambassadors enjoy continuous inspiration, motivation, and community support in person and on line.

Apply Now to Become a BibRave Ambassador

Fill out the application before November 7, 2023 ➡️  https://bit.ly/BibRaveAmb2023
#BibChat #BibRavePro #BibRaveCreator #RunnersofIG #Running #RunningCommunity #FitFluencer #HoorayRunning #DiscountCodes #PromoCodes #GearDiscounts #RunningDiscounts #ThisOldRunner #BibRavePro #BibRaveAmbassador
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  • Blog
  • Race Discounts
  • Races
    • 2021 Races >
      • REVIEW: 2021 Tampa Hot Chocolate 15K 5K
      • Hot Chocolate 15K Watercolor Journal
    • 2019 Races >
      • 2019 First Watch Sarasota Half
      • 2019 Legoland Brick Dash 5K
      • 2019 World Refugee Day 5K
      • 2019 Pittsburgh Half Marathon
      • 2019 Rugged Maniac Dade City
      • 2019 Copperhead 5K at the Valspar Championship
      • 2019 Best Damn Race
      • 2019 St Pete Beach Classic Duo
    • 2018 Races >
      • 2018 First Watch Sarasota Half
    • 2017 Races >
      • 2017 Madeira Beach Sunset Series
      • 2017 Best Damn Race Leftover 5k
      • 2017 May Day 10K
      • 2017 5K on the Runway
      • 2017 Valspar Par 4 Miler
      • 2017 Sarasota Music Half
      • 2017 SPB Beach Classic
      • 2017 Kettle Krush 5K
    • 2016 Races >
      • 2016 Caladesi Island 10 Miler
      • 2016 Ronnie's Run 10 Miler
      • 2016 Weedon Island Preserve 8K
      • 2016 Fort DeSoto 15K
      • 2016 One Step Closer 10k
      • 2016 Hippie Dash 5k
      • 2016 May Day 10K
      • 2016 FL Beach Half
      • 2016 SPB Beach Classic
    • 2015 Races >
      • 2015 May Day 10k
      • 2015 Weedon Island Preserve 8K
      • 2015 Fort DeSoto 15K
      • 2015 Honeymoon Island Half
  • Places
    • --> Seen On A Run
    • Azalea Park
    • Crescent Lake Park
    • Weedon Island Preserve
    • Demens Landing
    • Riviera Bay Park
    • Walter Fuller Park
  • My Story
    • Contact