This Old Runner
  • Blog
  • Race Discounts
    • What's BibRave?
  • Brand Discounts
  • Races
    • 2020 Races
    • 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
    • Reviews and Sponsored Posts

This Old Runner Writes

 

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. 
Picture
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!
Picture
My daughter inspired me to attempt running a half marathon.
Picture
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

Comments are closed.

    RSS Feed

    Copyright ThisOldRunner.com

    Disclosure: Some posts may contain affiliate links. If you buy through those links you won't pay a penny more, but we may get a small commission.

    Hello!

    This Old Runner profile photo
    This is where you'll find me writing instead of running.

    BibRave Pro logo with lion
    Click the BRP logo to save money on your favorite races and gear. #BibRavePro

    Best Damn Race Ambassador logo and discount code
    SAVE 10% on any 2021 BDR Race with "ThisOldRunner"

    ​2021 BDR Schedule:
    March 6: Orlando
    March 28: New Orleans
    ​
    Oct 16-17: Safety Harbor
    ​
    TBD: Savannah
    BestDamnRace.com​

    Upcoming
    ​Races:


    VIRTUAL
    ​​
    April 3, 2021 
    Hot Chocolate​​ 15K Louisville

    All the SWAG runners get in a Hot Chocolate Race.
    Registration for Louisville opens soon. Other events open now. Use my code: BRHC20 for a FREE HC running hat.
    FREE Hot Chocolate Race Running Cap.

    NEW DATE
    May 15, 2021 
    Hippie Dash
    ​​Safety Harbor

    Goodwill Hippie Dash logo
    The Hippie Dash is a 10k, 5k, 1-mile Walk, Woof & Roll (dogs & strollers welcome) and a Flower Child Fun Run for the little hippies! Proceeds benefit Goodwill's programs. Wear your grooviest outfit and you could win a prize. Dogs are welcome in the 1-mile Walk, Woof & Roll. Post-race party with FREE beer, munchies, and DJ playing 60s music. Chip-timed 10k and 5k on certified courses.

    NEW DATE
    ​October 16-17, 2021 
    Best Damn Race
    ​Safety Harbor

    Best Damn Race Safety Harbor Half Marathon Medal
    SAVE 10% with code: "THISOLDRUNNER" Plus, BDR offers no-risk registration! If the race doesn't happen, you get your money back (minus processing fee). Come join me for a real race next October! 5K, 10K, Half, Double Challenge and Triple Challenge events are open! #BDR2021 #BestDamnRace #SafetyHarbor

    ​November 16-17, 2021 
    St Pete Run Fest​
    ​Half Marathon

    St Pete Half Marathon Logo
    My plan is to run the SPRF Half in November. #SPRF #StPeteRunFest

    ​January 15-17, 2022 
    St Pete Beach Classic Mara Challenge

    St Pete Beach Classic logo
    My goal is to run the St Pete Beach Classic Marathon Challenge. It's 4 races over 2 days that totals 26.2 miles. (Registration Opens 5/1/21) #SPBC #RunStPeteBeach

    Blog Topics:

    All
    2018 Race Plans
    2019 Pittsburgh Half
    2020 Paris Marathon
    2021 BDR Events
    305 Half Marathon
    465 Virtual Race Challenge
    Aeropex
    AfterShokz
    Air Force Half Marathon
    Air Force Marathon
    AJC Peachtree Road Race
    Athlinks
    Beach Races
    Benderson Park
    Best Damn Leftover 5k
    Best Damn Race
    BibBoards
    BibRave 100
    Bib Rave Bundle
    BibRavePro
    Bib Rave Pro
    Bifocal Sunglasses
    BigFoot Tri & Trail
    Blisters
    BOCO Gear
    Boley Jingle Bell Run
    Bolt Run 5K-5Miler
    Bonus SWAG
    Bradenton Half
    Brand Discounts
    BUFF
    Chick-fil-A 5K Tampa
    Cinco De Miler
    Clearwater Fit Foodie 5k
    Cocoa Beach Half
    Compression
    Conquistador Half & 5K
    Copperhead 5K
    Coupon Code
    Cross Training
    CTM Band
    Cupid's Undie Run
    Custom Sunnies
    Des Linden
    Des Linden Step Challenge
    Discount Code
    Discount Codes
    Discover Caladesi Island
    Disney Wine & Dine
    DOMS
    #Earthathon Relay
    Earth Day
    Elf Virtual Run
    Elite Division
    Energy Gels
    EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler
    #EverySingleStreet
    Extreme Fit Compression
    First Watch Sarasota Half
    Fit2Run Holiday Challenge
    FitnessBank
    FL Beachathon Half
    FlipBelt Crops
    FL West Coast Half
    Flyby 5K
    Food Groove Mission
    Food Themed Races
    Fort DeSoto 15K
    Frugal Fitness Hacks
    Gasparilla Distance Classic
    Gasparilla Distance Classic Expo
    Gatorade Endurance
    Gear Discounts
    #GEFitLibs
    Getaway 10K St Pete
    Gifts For Runners
    Giveaway!
    Global Running Day
    Half Marathon Tips
    Halloween
    Heart Rate
    Heroes Memorial Run
    Hidrate Spark
    Hiking
    Hippie Dash
    Holiday Races
    Honeymoon Island Half
    Hooters 10K 5K Clearwater
    Hot Chocolate 15K Tampa
    Hot Chocolate 5K Tampa
    Hot Weather Hacks
    How To Run In Hot Weather
    Hydration
    Ice Necklace
    K9s United Race
    Kettle Krush 5K
    Key West Half
    Knockaround
    Knockaround Sunglasses
    KT Tape®
    Legoland Brick Dash 5k
    Lessons Learned
    Local Races
    Madeira Beach 5K Series
    May Day Races 10K
    #MedalMonday
    Miami Beach Half
    Mud Run
    Myofascial Release
    Napa Valley Marathon
    New Orleans
    NuGo Protein Bars
    Nutrition
    Obstacle Course Race
    OCR
    One Step Closer 10K
    OOFOS
    Orange Mud
    Orange Mud Transition Wrap
    Orlando
    Painted Rocks
    Par 4 Miler
    Paris Marathon
    PB & J 10K Run
    Pittsburgh Half
    Pittsburgh Marathon
    Pittsburgh Races
    Places To Run
    Plogging
    Pokemon Go
    Pretty In Pink 5K
    Product Review
    Providence Marathon
    Pumpkins In The Park 5K
    Quack Attack 5K
    Race Bibs
    Racecation
    Race Code
    Race Codes
    Race Costumes
    Race Day Photos
    Race Day Tips
    Race Discount
    Race Discounts
    Race For The Cupcake 5K
    Race Fuel
    Race Giveaway
    Race Recovery
    Race Reviews
    Raleys
    Ram Racing
    Recovery Sandals
    Roadside Attractions
    Robinson Presv 10K-5K
    Rock N Roll
    Ronnie's Run 10 Miler
    Rugged Maniac
    Run Around The Square
    Runderwear
    Run For All Children 10k
    Running Gear
    Running Hack
    Running In The Rain
    Running Shoes
    Run Run Santa Races
    Safety Harbor
    Sarasota Half
    Sarasota Music Half
    Scavenger Hunt
    #SceneOnARun
    Science In Sport Fuel
    Science In Sport REGO
    ScoobyDoo Run
    #SeenOnARun
    Shark Week Sunnies
    SiS Gels
    SiS REGO Recovery
    Skyway Bridge 10K
    Spring Break Races
    Steel City Road Runners
    Step Challenge
    #StepWithDes
    St Pete Beach Classic
    St Pete Grand Prix 5K
    St Pete Rocks
    St Pete Run Fest
    Summer Running
    Sunset 5K Series
    Sweepstakes
    Tampa Bay Parks
    Tampa Flavor Run
    That's So Pittsburgh
    The Great Race
    The Liberty Mile
    Thin Mint Sprint 5K
    TIA 5K On The Runway
    Tips For Older Rookie Runners
    TPA5K On The Runway
    Trail Running
    TrekzAir Headphones
    UA HOVR Sonic
    UA Running
    USAF Mara
    Valspar Championship
    Virtual Race
    Volunteer
    Was Your Race Cancelled?
    Weedon Island Preserve
    Weedon Island Trail Run
    Weedon Trail 8K
    World Refugee Day 5K

    Finish line Hot Chocolate 15K Tampa
    Another happy finish line!
Meet This Old Runner  |  Contact Us  |  Read the Blog 
Race Reviews  |  Places to Run ​
Race Discounts  |  Brand Discounts
​Request Product Review
DISCLAIMER: I'm not a running coach. I don't even play one on TV. Please ask your doctor or professional for advice specific to your body. 
DISCLOSURE: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links you won’t pay a penny more, but we may get a small commission. ​


Copyright 2016-2021 This Old Runner. All Rights Reserved.
​
  • Blog
  • Race Discounts
    • What's BibRave?
  • Brand Discounts
  • Races
    • 2020 Races
    • 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
    • Reviews and Sponsored Posts