An Easy Recovery

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Catching up on weekend posts?

 

 

Good morning!  :)  I was quite nervous that I would feel terribly sore from climbing all those hills on my bike, but I feel awesome.  My left knee was also a major concern.  Ashley and my Dad pointed out to me during the ride that I turn my left knee in as I pedal, creating a little circle (instead of an up and down movement).

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I didn’t think it was a big deal because my knees never hurt on the bike (I have Runner’s Knee, which is why I wear those braces when I run).  But by Mile 50, my knee was definitely hurting. 

 

My knees rarely hurt during runs anymore, and my theory is that I figured out short-term solutions to my knee pain, which got me “over the hump” and strengthened my knees and quad muscles to the point where I can run without pain/the need to ice.  However, my Dad thinks that a hilly Metric Century was past the point of my muscle strength, which is why it began to hurt towards the end of the race. 

 

I’m hoping that another month of long distance cycling will help me strengthen my legs even more so I don’t have pain during May’s 100 mile race!  But nevertheless, the pain was short lived, and I’m fine today.  Biking is so much more gentle on your body than running.  After my marathon, I couldn’t walk for days!  But after a Metric, I’m fine.  It’s awesome.  🙂

 

So, last night I just decompressed.  I wasn’t very hungry for dinner and just had a slice of PB toast with a Cherry Chocolate Bomb smoothie (1/2 banana, raw spinach, 1 cup almond breeze, frozen cherries, Nesquik, 2 tablespoons brown rice protein).  And then I slept for 10.5 hours!

 

Today’s breakfast:

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Pancakes, glorious pancakes!

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I subbed out 1/4 cup of pancake mix (out of 1 and 1/4 cup mix, for the Husband and I) with 1/2 cup Grape Nuts cereal.  The pancakes tasted so good as a result!

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With 1/2 a banana, strawberries, and maple syrup on top.

 

Marathon Monday

 

In honor of Marathon Monday (the Boston Marathon), let’s share our most incredible race experiences – whether it was a 5K, 15K, or Marathon!  If you’re a blogger, please share your race recap links, and if you’re a reader, describe the experience in the comment section!  Go ahead, brag about yourself a little bit!  🙂

{ 170 comments }

 

  • Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin April 19, 2010, 9:23 am

    Ohh I’m about to whip up some pancakes this morning too!

    My best race so far was my farthest race to date, the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler that was last Sunday. All of the other races I’ve run (4 5ks and 2 10ks) have left me feeling like I wanted to die after crossing the finish line because I didn’t pace myself well. For the 10 Miler, I crossed the line feeling like a million bucks! Here’s the link to the recap:

    http://wp.me/pKRzq-fE

    • Effie April 19, 2010, 11:52 am

      I’m with you Beth. That was an great race last week.

  • Run Sarah April 19, 2010, 9:24 am

    I have only done one race so far, a 10km, but there were 40,000 other runners and it was just so awesome being around so many other people in a race!

  • Andrea @ Run, Eat, Date, Sleep April 19, 2010, 9:25 am

    Thank you for posting the links about your runner’s knee solutions! I need to go back and read that when I’m bored at work 😉

    Here’s my race recap link.. http://runeatdatesleep.wordpress.com/race-recaps/

    My favorite race so far was the NYC Half Marathon!

  • Neely April 19, 2010, 9:25 am

    Yo caitlin! I want those pancakes.

    I don’t do races but check out the story on the Sentinel page about the local college guy who is running today at Boston… he’s blind. Totally inspirational.

    Have a good one!

  • Melissa S. April 19, 2010, 9:26 am

    I’m glad to hear you’re feeling so great after your race! that’s so great to hear!

    here’s a link to all my races i’ve run since i started blogging! http://rainforestgurl.blogspot.com/p/race-recaps.html

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs April 19, 2010, 9:26 am

    I’m glad you’re not sore – I’d be DEAD after that!!! Those pancakes sound amaze – I never would have thought to have subbed grape nuts in, genius!

    Hmm…I’d say my first half marathon was kickass – I did it in 1hr43, which for me was a huge achievement! But my second one (http://britchickruns.wordpress.com/2010/03/21/half-marathon-re-cap/) was sooo much harder – I got breathing/chest troubles during it, and literally, the last 3miles were hell! I was so shocked to even feel like that, it was horrible. BUT I still did it in 1hr50 😀
    My other big ‘thing’ was doing a 40mile endurance ride on my horse, in the year’s worst weathe! Out of about 50 starters, there were only 3 or 4 of us that completed. It was so tough mentally – I was in floods around the second loop, cos I was lonely, cold and miserable! BUT we ended up getting placed in the national rankings, and if I hadn’r done that ride, I wouldn’t have got a placing 😛
    It’s nice to have the opportunity to brag a bit without feeling bad :p
    Have a great day Caitlin!

  • Anna @ Newlywed, Newly Veg April 19, 2010, 9:26 am

    Sleeping for 10.5 hours sounds wonderful– your body deserves it!!!

    I had a great half-marathon last November (my one and only, so far)– it felt so great knowing that I’d pushed my body further than I ever thought possible. I want to pick out another one for this summer or fall!

  • Diana April 19, 2010, 9:26 am

    I’m not a runner so no race stories from me!
    Glad you woke up feeling good 🙂

    Those pancakes look delicious btw!
    Have a great monday Caitlin!

  • sarah April 19, 2010, 9:28 am

    I am incredibly jealous of your 10.5 hours of sleep. That’s miraculous!!
    Here’s my little self-promotion – I came in as the second woman at a New York Road Runners Race. Since this is unlikely to repeat – EVER!! – I’m glad I memorialized it here: http://washingtonranhere.wordpress.com/2010/03/28/race-report-nyrr-colon-cancer-15k/

  • Evan Thomas April 19, 2010, 9:28 am

    http://foodmakesfunfuel.com/2010/03/28/race-for-the-border-half-marathon-recap/
    This was my first half marathon. It was in 45 degree weather on the New Hampshire coast with huge winds coming ins. Needless to say not pleasant, but I still (almost) achieved my time goal. I have another half marathon in 2 weekends and I’m hoping for the weather to be a lot milder so I can sub 1:40

  • Theodora @ Losing Weight in the City April 19, 2010, 9:29 am

    So far, except for a cold 15K right before Christmas, all of my races have been awesome! My best race, though, was the NYC Half-Marathon last month. It was my second half, and I beat my time at my first half, the Disney Half, by more than 20 minutes! Here’s my recap: http://losingweightinthecity.com/post/466592310/nyc-half-marathon-recap

  • Ali April 19, 2010, 9:30 am

    I’ve only run one race before, and it was yesterday! My race recap is here: http://veganbooty.blogspot.com/2010/04/first-race-recap-ever.html. I’ve spent most of my life being a proudly unhealthy vegan (proud because I thought I was fighting the stereotype that all vegans are anorexic waifs), but I decided in December that I wanted to fight the stereotype in a different way and be a vegan athlete! So…my first race was yesterday. I ran 3.2 miles in 29:11. I’m so proud of myself!

  • Lauren @ merrymishaps April 19, 2010, 9:31 am

    The most ridiculous thing I’ve done to date is the Goofy Challenge. By far my slowest races, but we had a great time and finished with smiles on our faces!

    http://merrymishaps.com/2010/01/race-report-goofy-challenge-part-2/

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday April 19, 2010, 9:32 am

    I don’t really do races. I’m not going to win, so I don’t bother.

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 9:46 am

      Winning isn’t exactly the point…

      • Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete April 19, 2010, 10:50 am

        Some of my husband’s co-workers knew that I had ran the half marathon in Prague last year, and asked my husband the Monday after we got back if I had won. Haha. He just had to laugh, and say, “Um, no. Some Kenyans did. It was a race with 4,000 people (way smaller than Paris I might add). That isn’t the point. She was pushing herself to a place that was uncomfortable and worked her way through it. It is about being disciplined when you train, and becoming a stronger person not only physically, but mentally as well.” Well said, babe.

        • Carrie H April 19, 2010, 12:23 pm

          I’m running a marathon May 9 and my brother-in-law asked what the prize is for the winner. (I don’t think there is one, besides a medal, ha ha.) There are 1,000 runners in it, and I am just waiting for him (or someone) to ask me if I think I’m gonna win, and why I’m doing it if I don’t. This is a great answer, I think I’m gonna use it!

        • Carrie H April 19, 2010, 12:23 pm

          I’m running a marathon May 9 and my brother-in-law asked what the prize is for the winner. (I don’t think there is one, besides a medal, ha ha.) There are 1,000 runners in it, and I am just waiting for him (or someone) to ask me if I think I’m gonna win, and why I’m doing it if I don’t. This is a great answer, I think I’m gonna use it!

      • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday April 19, 2010, 10:57 am

        I get that most people don’t race to win but rather race to accomplish the goal, to “go the distance” so to speak. I appreciate that.

        My thought is that if I can go the distance myself on my own time and create my own mental finish line then why bother entering a race? I only really race if it’s for a charity that I support.

        • Kelly April 19, 2010, 11:48 am

          Wow thats surprising- I just feel the energy and excitement at a race is so much more fun than just running or biking on my own. Just me though 🙂

  • Whitney April 19, 2010, 9:33 am

    My longest race to this point was the Solider Field 10 Mile in Chicago last May but I am running my first half marathon in 2 weeks and am going to train to run my first marathon-Chicago 10/10/10 !!

    http://whitneyinchicago.wordpress.com/2009/05/24/1st-and-10-soldier-field-10-mile-recap/

  • Allie (Live Laugh Eat) April 19, 2010, 9:34 am

    Glad to hear you are feeling A OK. I’ve actually never run in a race before!! I’ve run up to 8 miles at a time but never even a 5K. Crazy, huh? I hope to change that soon.

  • sarah April 19, 2010, 9:35 am

    I am super-jealous of your 10.5 hours of sleep. Amazing. Wow. I need more sleep, I guess!
    Anyway, my little bit of self promotion – last month, I came in as the second female at a New York Road Runners race in Central Park. Since this is first – and likely the only – time I’ve placed that high, I am glad I memorialized it here: http://washingtonranhere.wordpress.com/2010/03/28/race-report-nyrr-colon-cancer-15k/

    (this might be a repost – if it is, sorry!! my earlier comment bit the big one, it seems)

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 9:46 am

      dude that is awesome.

  • brandi April 19, 2010, 9:37 am

    congrats on your races this weekend! I loved reading the recaps 🙂

    My craziest race so far was the 10K trail run we did last year:

    http://branappetit.wordpress.com/2009/06/06/i-survived/

    The ENTIRE trail was thick, gloopy, mud and it was SUCH a hard race. I’m still proud I finished! It was nuts.

  • Christine @ Grub, Sweat and Cheers April 19, 2010, 9:38 am

    I’ve run the Dublin mini-marathon (10k) a couple times and it is a fabulous. It’s run through the streets of Dublin, all women (though you get some odd dressed-up men) who are running and raising funds for various charities of their choice.

    A wonderfully empowering event!

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman April 19, 2010, 9:38 am

    I have Runner’s Knee in both knees, but since I have so little cartilage left I can’t bike for long. Still, hills kill me. Way to go with your races!

  • Runeatrepeat April 19, 2010, 9:38 am

    My favorite race so far is still my first marathon…

    http://runeatrepeat.com/2009/02/02/41538/

    I really didn’t think I could do it and made sure to bring my cell phone in my Spibelt in case I had to call 911 for myself. I am crazy 🙂

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 9:47 am

      lol

    • Whitney B. April 19, 2010, 6:39 pm

      I carried my cell phone when I ran my marathon, too! It was a total superstition. Thankfully I didn’t have to call in the reinforcements :).

  • Megan April 19, 2010, 9:39 am

    Grape Nuts in panckaes– you go! I love the combinations you put together that would never even cross my mind. I like old favorites getting a new healthy twist 🙂

  • Erin (Travel, Eat, Repeat) April 19, 2010, 9:41 am

    Wow, what a neat addition to pancakes! Glad you’re not feeling the pain. You’ve definitely earned a rest day. 🙂

  • Erin April 19, 2010, 9:42 am

    I am a super inexperienced runner (only started in September 2010 and have completed three 5Ks)! But in my most recent race, I beat my previous PR by 37 seconds, coming in at 28:53. And for the first time, I felt great most of the race. I had very few of those why-do-I-run-cause-this-hurts-so-bad moments! 🙂 Congrats on completing your big race yesterday, Caitlin!

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 9:47 am

      3 5ks does not make you inexperienced! that makes you EPIC.

      • Erin April 19, 2010, 1:15 pm

        You are so right! Thanks for helping me kick my negative thoughts!

  • Lauren (Health on the Run) April 19, 2010, 9:43 am

    Thanks for giving us all the opportunity to brag a little bit this morning! 😉

    I’d have to say that my most incredible race experience was Boston Marathon last year. The race was incredibly challenging (those hills really tore up my quads) but it was so amazing to be a part of this huge event!! You seriously feel like a rock star! 🙂

    Close second to this was when I did the Bay State Marathon the previous fall — since that’s when I qualified. I felt so great during the race and I had never been more excited to run another marathon after crossing the finish line with a BQ!

    Good luck to all the marathon runners today!!

  • Gracie (complicated day) April 19, 2010, 9:46 am
  • Emily April 19, 2010, 9:46 am

    In my first 5k(which was my first race in general) I surprised myself by keeping up a steady jog the entire time. I felt so good afterwards! There’s a bit more about it here: http://habitsofahealthywoman.wordpress.com/2010/04/17/why-i-run/

  • emptynutjar April 19, 2010, 9:47 am

    rest up and eat up today caitlin!

  • Estela @ Weekly Bite April 19, 2010, 9:50 am

    You are a rock star!!! I’m so glad you’re feeling good!

    My husband is doing the Wounded Warrior 110 mile ride this weekend! I’m so excited for him!

  • Mary @ Fit this girl April 19, 2010, 9:53 am

    My past weekend included a 5k to Challenge Obesity! I have kept 31 pounds off for 6 years and it is a great cause to run for!

    Race Recap: http://www.fitthisgirl.com/2010/04/challenge-obesity-5k-recap.html

    Mary

  • Chrissy April 19, 2010, 9:53 am

    I just organized all my race recaps on my blog (http://christinehennessey.blogspot.com/2000/08/race-reports.html) by my favorite by far was this past Valentine’s Day, when I ran my first marathon in Austin. http://christinehennessey.blogspot.com/2010/02/race-report-austin-marathon-2010.html

  • Mary @ Fit this girl April 19, 2010, 9:54 am

    AND… CONGRATS on the race! I hope your knee concern works out! Keep up the inspiration!

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing April 19, 2010, 9:55 am

    I don’t have any race recaps (YET!) but I hope to one day take up biking. I love running, it’s really my passion, but it’s SO HARD on the body! Injuries just aren’t worth it :/ So I’m hoping biking will work better with my body!

  • Nicole of Raspberry Stethoscope April 19, 2010, 9:59 am

    I have competed in no races, so I have nothing to share, but I just wanted to say that you freakin’ rock!! i cannot believe you’re going to do 100 miles–will that take like 10 hours, or? I can barely ride 15 minutes before having to rest. I don’t think I will ever gain endurance or speed:(

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 10:11 am

      dude i really hope it does not take 10 hours! i’m praying its under 8.

      you will definitely gain endurance! it’s hard, i know. remember when i started to run, i couldnt go 1/4 a mile without stopping! everyone starts somewhere.

  • s. April 19, 2010, 9:59 am

    i’m eating panckaes right now!

    last weekend, i ran my first race (the ten mile cherry blossom race in washington, dc), recap here:

    http://kickitwoman.wordpress.com/2010/04/13/shock/

    i’m STILL in awe of myself and am looking forward to more more more!

  • Heather @ Side of Sneakers April 19, 2010, 10:00 am

    Glad you’re not hurting after such a ride!!

    I’m really proud of the half marathon I ran in March- it was the first long race I’ve run since my injury/illness (I’ve had unexplained pain in my hands & feet for almost a year and a half).
    Here’s my recap: http://www.sideofsneakers.com/2010/03/21/tobacco-road-half-marathon-race-recap/

  • Juli D. April 19, 2010, 10:01 am

    It just happened this past weekend – so no blog recap yet. I ran a PR and won a 5K! I was first overall female at 20:27 – almost a full minute faster than my previous 5K! My husband also won his AG, set a new PR and finished just in front of me. It was at a local microbrewery, so I got beer as a prize and this was the first race I ever ran 3 years ago and I’ve done it every year since. It was a great day!

  • ashleigh April 19, 2010, 10:01 am

    I love a good night’s sleep when I am absolutley exhuasted! I don’t have any race recaps, but hopefully soon!

  • Stephanie April 19, 2010, 10:01 am

    The NYC Half Marathon was the most rewarding race I have ever done! I trained and raced my heart out while raising money for TnT! http://epicuriousrunner.com/?p=1175

  • Andrea (canyoustayfordinner.com) April 19, 2010, 10:02 am

    Gosh, I’m just catching up on your weekend posts and I have to say that I am absolutely grinning ear to ear. YOU ARE AMAZING!!! I’m so proud of you for all that you have accomplished, and moreso for all that you strive for. You continually break barriers, challenge yourself, and live life in the fullest, most meaningful way. Unbelievable.

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 10:36 am

      thank you 🙂

  • Gwen April 19, 2010, 10:02 am

    Re-reading my recap from my first marathon brings tears to my eyes. Most amazing experience EVER. I am SO excited to do it again in 2011!
    http://gwenniepie.com/2008/10/27/victory-success-glory-aka-gwen/

  • Sammi April 19, 2010, 10:03 am

    It’s probably have to say my most amazing race experience was the 15k I just did on Saturday! I was scared of the distance and even more scared of my goal time! Even though I had some major bathroom issues during the race (had to duck behind a tree!), I still managed to get in under my goal time!
    I’m so glad you’re feeling so great after that race!
    Those pancakes look amazing 🙂

    • Sammi April 19, 2010, 10:10 am

      Whoa. gotta love typos. I’d probably have to say***

  • Anne Marie April 19, 2010, 10:06 am

    I haven’t done any races as an adult(yet)but I have plans to run two 5ks in the fall. I ran cross country when I was in elementary school, often coming in last. But I’ve always loved running and it has been a goal of mine to run a 5k for a long time. I’m really looking forward to it (even if I come in last again!)Reading your race recaps are very inspiring to me!

  • Molly @fuelherup April 19, 2010, 10:07 am

    Hmmm…my top 3 are coming in second in District in the 3200m and then third in Sectionals, and the last 10k which I ran in 41:40 on a hilly cold course.

  • Sarah April 19, 2010, 10:07 am

    It wasn’t my “best” race, but finishing my first marathon was amazing! It was 85 degrees (which is pretty unusual in Denver in mid-October) and my last 2 LR’s had been in 40 degree weather…so I was not loving the heat and it totally threw off my mindset for the race – lots of people turned around and ran the 1/2 instead of the full, but I gutted it out and finished the full, slowly, painfully, but I did it! Can’t wait for marathon #2 this fall.

    http://hogeruns.wordpress.com/2009/10/19/denver-marathon/

  • Janae April 19, 2010, 10:09 am

    I LOVE your blog! I get so excited whenever you have a new post. This is the first time I have left a comment:) I ran my first marathon on Saturday (Salt Lake City). I qualified for Boston with 3:20 and I took first in my age group. I am so SORE! I am sure you understand the feeling! Thanks for all of your inspirational posts!

  • Tonyne @ Unlikely Success Story April 19, 2010, 10:09 am

    I actually finished my first 10k this weekend! It was fantastic. Sure, I finished 180 out of 230, but I finished in 66 minutes and I was just fine with that! http://unlikelysuccessstory.blogspot.com/2010/04/lighthouse-10k-race-recap.html

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople April 19, 2010, 10:09 am

    I have never run a race, but I am really enjoying reading everyone’s comments. You all rock!

  • Karen @ Not Just Celery April 19, 2010, 10:10 am

    I ran my first half marathon last year and it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done! I really enjoyed training for it though. It’s so funny I HATED running in gym class growing up and now I run for fun! Here’s the recap:
    http://notjustcelery.wordpress.com/2009/10/13/ing-hartford-half-marathon-recap/

    I was crazy enough to sign up for another one this year though, and in the back of my mind am contemplating a marathon for 2011 or 2012!

  • Matt April 19, 2010, 10:11 am

    I always love a good nights sleep after a hard workout. It makes it that much better 😉

  • Shannon April 19, 2010, 10:11 am

    My most amazing race experience was my first 10-miler last year. Before that, my max race distance was 5k, and I think that the 10-miler was my first time experiencing a “runner’s high.” I was smiling like a fool the whole time 🙂 Here’s the recap: http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=1953172

  • skinnyrunner April 19, 2010, 10:12 am

    my best race experience was probably my first marathon. it was in vegas and theres nothing like the first time.

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 10:47 am

      thats what she said!

      • Maura April 19, 2010, 11:21 am

        Bahahaha! Best comment ever!

  • Andee (LAEasyMeals) April 19, 2010, 10:12 am

    I just finished my 7th marathon in one year-many more to come! Can’t wait to go to Boston next year. Great job with the races this weekend!
    http://laeasymeals.com/photos/

  • Anne April 19, 2010, 10:12 am

    my favorite race was my first half this past march. i have been running for years, but never did a long distance race or done much focused training. it kicked off a year full of endurance events (half run, two century rides and an oly tri) and i was beaming the entire time. the day was perfect, my friends were all there and i met my goal despite some injuries along the way.

    http://www.annejuliet.com/post/465767365/thank-you

    good luck to everyone out there today!

    and AWESOME ride yesterday, caitlin!

  • Heather C April 19, 2010, 10:15 am

    Just ran my First marathon in March – http://trialsoftraining.wordpress.com/2010/03/23/suntrust-national-marathon-race-report-run-with-me/ – and currently have the Boston Marathon updates streaming on my comp at work! 😉

    Congrats on the race yesterday, I loved the recap! You’re always so honest about how you felt, when you got exhausted, and how you push through – not many people can say that! I was also drooling at the picture of every rest stop. UM, that’s reason enough to start bike racing! ha 😉

  • Paige (Running Around Normal) April 19, 2010, 10:15 am

    My last most memorable run was a 10K I ran up in Chicago – the Frank Lloyd Wright 10K. It was in October, and the architecture and trees (colors, colors, colors!) were absolutely breath taking. My next race is in a couple weeks – my first half marathon!
    Happy Marathon Monday!

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 10:47 am

      ohmigod my mom would love that race!

  • Paige (Running Around Normal) April 19, 2010, 10:16 am

    My last most memorable run was a 10K I ran up in Chicago – the Frank Lloyd Wright 10K. It was in October, and the architecture and trees (colors, colors, colors!) were absolutely breath taking.
    http://runningaroundnormal.com/2009/10/25/the-frank-lloyd-wright-10k/

    My next race is in a couple weeks – my first half marathon!
    Happy Marathon Monday!

  • Tina April 19, 2010, 10:16 am

    I completed the Princess 1/2 last year and it might be the proudest moment of my life. I’m not a great runner and I could see the sweeper for part of it. It was amazing to be a part of an all women’s event, everyone is so supportive and inspiring. There was a mentor from Team in Training that I tried to stay near and she told me that only 1/2 of 1% of people can say that they ever completed a 1/2 marathon. I don’t know if it’s true but I am super proud to be part of that statistic. :o)

  • Julie April 19, 2010, 10:19 am

    Caitlin, congrats on your badass race!!! Amazing!

    My favorite race still has to be my 5k I ran a couple years ago in Baltimore…I came in at 24:01 and at the time, I was hoping to come in around 27 haha. I was totally shocked I ran that fast!! I haven’t done too many races thus far, but I’m signed up for my first half mary next month on Cape Cod (my home) so I cannnnnn’t wait!

  • Susan April 19, 2010, 10:20 am

    Such a fun idea!! I’m bookmarking this post so I can come back and read race recaps later 🙂

    My most incredible race experience, of course, was my sprint triathlon. I honestly didn’t think I was going to do it until I watched the Olympic swimmers jump in ahead of us the day of the race. Then I panicked 😛 I wasn’t fast, and I didn’t push as hard as I probably could have, but I plugged through each leg and felt SO accomplished by the end. I was undertrained because of a hip injury, and it was really tough. I still beam with pride whenever I think of myself as a triathlete 🙂

    Recap here! http://tryingforatri.wordpress.com/2009/07/05/i-did-it/

  • devon April 19, 2010, 10:20 am

    My 1st half recap:
    [url]http://runsleeprinserepeat.com/2009/11/28/outback-distance-classic-half-marathon-report/[/url]

    It’ll always be super special to me 🙂

  • Sarah April 19, 2010, 10:21 am

    congrats on the bike race!! i ran my first race ever in march…it was the shamrock shuffle, an 8k in downtown chicago. i had only run 5 miles once two days before the race and was pretty sure i would have to walk. i ran the whole race and finished just under 52 minutes! i am running a 5k this weekend and a 10k in may…i think im hooked:).

  • Jenn (from j3nn.net) April 19, 2010, 10:21 am

    Your pancakes look divine! 😀

    I don’t have any race experiences to share, but I enjoy hearing about other people’s experiences. 😀

    Jenn

  • Kellie@obsessivelyhealthy April 19, 2010, 10:23 am

    When I ran my first half marathon my family was out of town for the weekend. I drove by myself at 4:30am to get there and was so tired and scared I sobbed before the race started. As soon as race started all my fears went away and I just had a great time. I crossed that finish line feeling so proud. The fact that I was so nervous that I wanted to turn around and go home, but kept going anyway made it that much better. The older I get, the more I realize that you will only regret what you don’t try.

  • Amanda April 19, 2010, 10:23 am

    My race recap link is http://eattolivelivetorun.wordpress.com/race-recaps-and-results/

    By far my most amazing race was the Mercedes Half Marathon in February, I ran it in 1:45.

    Now back to watching Boston. 🙂

  • swimsutra April 19, 2010, 10:26 am

    I raced my first 10k on Saturday. Only my third race so far (5k, 4-miler, and the 10k), but I think I’m already addicted to improving!

    http://swimsutra.wordpress.com/2010/04/19/10k-recapopening-up/

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) April 19, 2010, 10:28 am

    oh man, i’m not a racer, but i gotta say that i loved your recap of the disney marathon, and i actually really loved your recap of the race yesterday. i think it’s so cool how we require such emotional stamina to push through the physical pain, and i think you brought that to life in both recaps. way to go girl, i’m so proud of you!

  • Jojo April 19, 2010, 10:30 am

    My best race experience was running my first 5K. I hadn’t been able to even run a quarter of a mile when I first started training, but 3 months later I ran the WHOLE thing. My super fast boyfriend ran along side me the whole time and when we finished I just started crying. Not even a year later I was crying as I crossed the finish line of my first half marathon!!

    I don’t have any race recaps on my blog but there are pictures to document my race achievements, if you’re interested…

  • Katie April 19, 2010, 10:30 am

    Hey there- way to go on your metric century! Biking is super-intimidating to me! I am so impressed!!
    I raced my first half in March. I loved it, especially after it was over. I am slacking off since then, but am running a 5K in May, hoping for another half in the fall.

    http://runthislife.wordpress.com/2010/03/30/what-did-i-do-before-all-of-this/

  • Kailey (SnackFace) April 19, 2010, 10:34 am

    Now, if someone would just create an elliptical marathon, I’d be set. Perhaps I wouldn’t be able to feel my feet by the end of it (hell, the middle of it), but I’d be game.

    Caitlin, you are a race fiend and I love it. Maybe I’ll be interested in races post-grad, too. As in, when my weekends don’t consist of lounging all day, dancing and sipping all night. Only six more weeks of this–gotta live it up.

    Enjoy you Monday, ma! xoxox

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 10:49 am

      you have the rest of your life to be a responsible adult 🙂 enjoy college while it lasts!!!

  • Amber April 19, 2010, 10:35 am

    My biggest race accomplishment was definitely when I came in at 2:01 in my last half-marathon! The two halfs before that I ran in 2:11 and 2:15 so it was a HUGE PR for me. I ran HARD and I was SORE the next day but it was so worth it!! Next time I want to break 2 hours!!

    Here is the race recap section on my blog: http://girlwiththeredhair.com/race-recaps/

    I’ve only done running races so far but this summer I want to get a bike and maybe do a triathlon!

  • Rachel April 19, 2010, 10:37 am

    I ran my first race, a 5k, in March. I was so super super super nervous and it was the most anxiety-filled week of my life leading up to it!

    I just started running in 2010 and was NEVER a runner before.

    The race went great! I shaved 4 minutes off my best time and now I am officially addicted. I have 3 more races coming up in the next few months.

    Here’s the recap!
    http://fitfunandfabulous.wordpress.com/2010/03/15/dash-down-greenville-avenue-5k-the-results/

  • j.l. April 19, 2010, 10:40 am

    in april 2009 i ran my first 5k…ever. by november 2009 i had run my first half marathon. i cried on last turn into straight-a-away for the finish. i was the skinny bookworm who protested compulsory gym class and hated jocks as much as they hated nerds. i have so many goals now that i never thought i’d accomplish because no one told me i could or should. i’m such a different person than i was 10 years ago.

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter April 19, 2010, 10:44 am

    I ran my 2nd 5K this weekend! It went really well and my runner’s knee didn’t act up like I was expecting it too, but I gave it a lot of rest 🙂

    http://givemethealmondbutter.wordpress.com/2010/04/17/yay-for-a-5k/

  • Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete April 19, 2010, 10:46 am

    Wow, it looks like you are doing just fine after that race! When I did my 60 miler a couple of weeks ago, the only things that were sore the next day were my lady bits! haha. But really, they were! The cobblestone was not good for the groin area. at. all. My favorite race recaps:

    The Cologne Triathlon where I got lost b/c I don’t speak German:

    http://geekturnedathlete.com/2009/09/06/cologne-germany-triathlon-race-report/

    Most recent marathon in Paris where I had such a great amount of self-doubt going on before the race, and proved to myself that I am a capable athlete:

    http://geekturnedathlete.com/2010/04/15/paris-marathon-2010-recap/

  • ari April 19, 2010, 10:49 am

    i always find it amazing that you can be absolutely dying through the hardest race of your life, but then in an hour or the next day when it’s over, you’re just like “oh, yeah, i just rode my bike for 60 miles.” i love the mantra “pain is temporary, quitting is forever” because it’s so true! you can do ANYTHING for however long, because it’ll be over before you know it!

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 11:12 am

      so true! nothing last forever 🙂 except pride.

  • Jen April 19, 2010, 10:51 am

    Running my first 5K, the Freihofer’s Run for Women, in May 2009. This is the first race I had ever run, after only running for less than a year and losing 70 pounds. I can’t even describe the feeling I got during the race–that I was actually doing something I never thought I’d ever do in my life. I even got teary eyed as I finished! I felt extremely proud of myself for running this race, and I had tons of fun while running it. I can’t wait to do it again! I don’t have a recap, as I just started my blog! 🙂

    BTW, I LOVE your blog, and I’m so glad I found it, you are so inspiring!

  • ~Jessica~ April 19, 2010, 10:57 am

    My most magical race was the Haweswater Half Marathon this year, for a variety of reasons. I was coming back from achilles tendonitis, still in quite a lot of pain and very much doubting whether I’d be able to run at all. My training had been compromised by the atrocious weather in England over the winter and, although I’d run the distance multiple times, I had little to no confidence left in myself. All I wanted was to finish.

    The course itself was magical and the frost and snow lingering on the mountains was so beautiful. At one point, when I’d climbed the tallest hill on the course, only to be able to look down into the amazing lake / valley (which I had no idea was coming due to the steepness of the hill) I actually cried a little. And I smashed my expectations for time, finishing in 1:39:11 on one of the most difficult half marathon courses in the UK (and on icy roads!), which is an accomplishment for me (although relatively I know it’s pretty small stuff compared to all the marathoners out there!)

    Unfortunately it didn’t take long for my negativity to take over again and for me to beat myself up over not doing better, but at least I had a few moments of pride to hold on to 🙂

    My recap is here: http://scarecrowsinshadows.wordpress.com/race-recaps/haweswater-half-marathon/

    Thanks so much for opening up the comments section! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate everyone, no matter what stage they’re at 🙂

    <3

    ~Jess~

  • Stephanie Norton April 19, 2010, 10:58 am

    My best run ever well kinda a tie…

    A year ago today I couldn’t even run 5 ft without wanting to die I was also 70lbs heavier.. Back in Sept of 2009 I ran my 3rd 5k and PR’d and came in 3rd in my age groupd.. One of the best days EVER!

    Then I got a brilliant idea that I wanted to run a half marathon in 2010.. I signed up for the Disney Princess Half Marathon. I finished it in 2 hours and 43 min. two minutes faster than I was hoping.. My first half ever! It was the greatest feeling EVER!!!

    For not being able to run and being so heavy a year ago. I was so proud of myself. I just recently signed up for my next half marathon on August 1st, 2010! 🙂

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 11:11 am

      wow! what achievements 🙂 you rock.

      • Stephanie Norton April 19, 2010, 1:00 pm

        Thanks Caitlin.. Reading your blog now pushes me daily knowing what I’ve achieved and seeing what you achieved motivates me everyday!!! Btw.. I’m dancersteph25 on twitter 🙂

  • Camille April 19, 2010, 11:06 am

    The pancakes look delicious!
    Have a great day!

  • Lauren April 19, 2010, 11:08 am

    My PR for a 5K is 29:46 on a ridiculously hilly course. But my crowning achievement for myself was running my first 10K in 1:02:03. I never thought I would ever be able to run 6 miles!

  • Elizabeth April 19, 2010, 11:10 am

    I just ran my first 5k on Saturday. It was awesome! I’ve been training since January with the Couch to 5k program and I was so excited that I was able to do it. I ran it with my friend, too, which was fun!
    Your blog was inspiring on my journey to start running, so thank you. 🙂

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 11:10 am

      congrats on your 5k!!!

  • Laura@FindingAHealthyBalance....after a 100+ Pound weight loss!!! April 19, 2010, 11:10 am

    My “best race” (so far) in which I scored a new PR was last Thursday, 4/15/10 in fact………check out the link below to my post on it:

    http://findingahealthybalance.wordpress.com/2010/04/16/corporate-ioa-5k/

    =) Laura

  • alli April 19, 2010, 11:17 am

    i really dont like races and thus have only done 2, but my biggest running achievement was running my longest distance yet- 18 miles 5 weeks ago…..i was 13 weeks pregnant 🙂 i took it easy, and finished in 3:00:34. i felt great, even with baby in tow!

  • Katheryn April 19, 2010, 11:18 am

    I’m a SAHM of two. I love training and running races, but I didn’t start running until 3 years ago. I ran my first full marathon last April at 4:20:25, my second was last August with a better time at 4:15:12, and on Saturday (two days ago), I ran my third full at 4:02:15. I’m proud that my time keeps getting better and hope that I can run the Boston Marathon in either 2011 or 2012.

  • Angharad April 19, 2010, 11:19 am

    Just read your race re-cap: that sounded HARD! My goodness. I’ve only run a few races but I’m really proud of the 10 mile race I completed last fall. I finished in EXACTLY my training plan goal time (give or take a few seconds!) and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done!
    First half marathon is next month!

  • Maura April 19, 2010, 11:23 am

    I have never run in a race before (plans are in the making) but I’m currently watching all the boston marathon runners out my office window! Such an inspiration..:)

  • Tina April 19, 2010, 11:28 am

    That is amazing that you aren’t feeling too pained after all of that effort yesterday. Wow!

    And I have never run a race…but I can give a link to my fitness competition that I completed just a little over a year after giving birth. 🙂 http://faithfitnessfun.wordpress.com/2009/11/08/show-recap/

  • Retta @ RunRettaRun April 19, 2010, 11:31 am

    Just wanted to say congrats on your bike run yesterday! BTW, you look exactly like your dad!

    I have run a 5k before that was pre-blogging days. I’m currently training for my first half coming up on April 25th! http://www.runrettarun.wordpress.com.

  • Sam (My Sugar Obsession) April 19, 2010, 11:32 am

    My race recap is from this weekend! It was my first race! My newest goal is to run the pf changs 1/2 marathon in january 2011.

    http://mysugarobsession87.blogspot.com/2010/04/blueberry-poppy-seed-cake.html

  • Daniela April 19, 2010, 11:37 am

    On Oct 25, 2009 I ran my first and only marathon (so far), The Niagara Falls International Marathon. My goal was to finish it in less than 5 hrs, which I did (4:57:32). But most importantly I wanted to have fun and not get injured, which I also accomplished. The weather was perfect, the course was flat and the volunteers were amazing. I had saved up several NPR: Wait, wait…Don’t tell me! podcasts for this race, so the whole time I was laughing out loud and running with a big grin on my face. For my next marathon I would like to run a lot faster than 5 hrs, but I will always remember how amazing it felt to run my first marathon race.

  • jen trinque April 19, 2010, 11:39 am

    Isn’t it great when you exercise with someone else and they can point out something you didn’t see that will improve your skills? (You and the knee going around instead of up and down, in this case)

    Here’s a recap of my half marathon from a month ago!

    http://recipesforcreativity.wordpress.com/2010/03/22/check/

  • Christina April 19, 2010, 11:42 am

    My 10k last year was my favorite. I attempted to pass one last girl before the finish line but she noticed and we raced to the end. I never got ahead of her and found out if I did I would have placed 3rd. It was the closest I came to getting a medal! Although I didn’t win, it was still exciting 🙂

  • Bethany (Not Unless I'm Being Chased) April 19, 2010, 11:45 am

    I ran my very first half marathon two weekends ago on Sunday, April 11th. I only started running last summer and to actually train and finish the half was the most incredible feeling — I knew then I can do anything!
    My husband, father and sister all ran the same race and it was amazing to be able to enjoy that post-race runner’s high with all of them. 🙂
    Here’s the recap:
    http://notunlessimbeingchased.com/2010/04/12/half-marathon-wrap-up/
    And here’s the explanation of why I decided to go from couch potato to runner:
    http://notunlessimbeingchased.com/2010/04/11/today-is-the-day/

  • Kelly April 19, 2010, 11:48 am

    My most exciting race was my sprint triathlon last summer: http://www.shewearsaredsoxcap.com/2009/07/officially-sprint-triathlete.html

  • Carrie H April 19, 2010, 11:50 am

    I have to say, it is so awesome that you race with your dad. That photo of you at the beginning of the last post is great. During my first half marathon, I cried at mile six just thinking of my dad because the Beatles “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” song came on my mp3 player. He used to sing that to me when I was a little girl. My dad is going to be at the finish line of my first marathon in a few weeks. I am so excited.

    Congrats on your awesome race!

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 11:54 am

      that is really sweet 😉

  • Kristin April 19, 2010, 11:50 am

    My favorite race was the Sprint Distance Tri I did last summer. I had trained and trained and had pretty much predicted my time on all three events. I told my hubby my times so he could watch me come in on each event. When I was out on the bike I felt REALLY good! The bike is my weakest event. When I was coming into transistion I saw my husband and he looked really suprised. He ran up to the transistion area and yelled, “You’re WAY ahead of time!” I didn’t even know what that meant and just headed out for the run. Turns out I was 17 minutes faster on the bike than I had predicted. I was so excited! I didn’t win but came in 6th in my age divison! This has inspired me so much I’m doing an Olympic distance Tri this June and even a bike tour!

  • Effie April 19, 2010, 11:54 am

    My favorite race thus far was the Cherry Blossom in DC last weekend. I’m hoping to add the Marine Corps Marathon to that list after I complete it in October though.

  • Emilie April 19, 2010, 11:55 am

    Racing for me is all about the friend and family support that I’ve gotten. This time, I got to support my sister in her first race, but she didn’t know I was coming. (this past weekend!) Here is the recap:
    http://www.onemominmaine.com/2010/04/surprise-on-video.html

  • Teri [a foodie stays fit] April 19, 2010, 11:56 am

    My first marathon was last fall – it was in a beautiful, remote location and only had 300 runners but it was an incredible experience. And my mom flew out from Utah to NC to surprise me at the finish line! Best feeling ever to see her there cheering me on when I was nearly in tears. 🙂 I did my race recap in four parts: http://afoodiestaysfit.com/tag/marathon/

  • Jo April 19, 2010, 12:06 pm

    I’ve not yet ran my best race as I have only ever ran a couple of 5k races officially.

    However, I am training for my first half marathon in July and just yesterday, I ran my first ever 13 miles and felt so proud of myself! Just 4 weeks ago, I could only run 5.2 miles and I have absolutely no idea how I have managed to progress so quickly except for getting fitted for proper running shoes.

    I guess we are all a lot more capable than we give ourselves credit for.

    Anyway, it’s not an official race report but it’s a recap of my first ever half marathon distance yesterday 🙂

    http://www.jagsfitnessblog.com/2010/04/18/13-miles-no-problem/

  • Amanda (Two Boos Who Eat) April 19, 2010, 12:19 pm

    That’s interesting about turning your knee in while biking. I wonder if you can train yourself to not do that. I overpronate when I run so I’m trying to correct it but so far no luck! Knee pain sucks! I bet it’s awesome being able walk after the long distance.

    My husband and I just recently ran our first 5k and JUST signed up for another one on Sunday April 25th. We are loving it. We trained with the couch to 5k plan (like James lol.) and it’s going really well. I still need to work on my speed. I have this mental block with running, I always convince myself that I need to walk when I really don’t. I can’t wait to get over that.

    http://twobooswhoeat.blogspot.com/2010/03/great-race-of-agoura-hills-deena-kastor.html

  • kristina @Mendon Pond Musings April 19, 2010, 12:36 pm

    Definitely my LA Marathon! It was my first marathon. I can’t believe it was only a month ago.

    LA Marathon

  • Rosie @ Time to Live April 19, 2010, 12:38 pm

    Glad you’re feeling ok after your amazing achievement yesterday! The pancakes look like a great rewarding breakfast 🙂

  • Ashley April 19, 2010, 12:40 pm

    I’ve only ran a few races so far but my half was the best/worst yet! 🙂 I’ve been watching the Boston Marathon all morning! So awesome and inspiring! It’s only about an hour away but I’ve never been down to watch it in real life…maybe next year! And maybe someday I’ll be running it! 😉 So glad your recovery is going well!!

    Link to half recap- http://willrun4food.wordpress.com/2010/04/14/great-bay-half-marathon-2010/

  • Erica April 19, 2010, 12:41 pm

    We had a fundraiser for a fund that a friend and I started to help cancer patients in our community this weekend. We had a 5K run, a 1 mile run, and a 1 mile walk. This is the first time E-V-E-R that any type of run/walk activity has been held here! We weren’t sure what kind of turn out we would have, but it was amazing!! The day was sunny with a high of 65* and we registered over 150 runners and walkers!!! Mind you, we live in a town with a population of 1,000 so that’s pretty awesome! AND to top it all off, I set a new PR for the 5K: 23:50, beating a lady a really wanted to beat badly by only :03 by sprinting it out at the end…AND I WON!!! I am still floating, can ya tell?! Of all the races I have participated in, I have never won one, or even come close so I was beyond stoked! It was amazing to see all my friends and family and community cheering for me at the finish line, and they all said how fitting it was that THIS SURVIVOR won her own race. I am humbled and touched by the outpouring of loved I’ve received. It was a marvelous day…one I will never forget. Thank you for letting us share.

    And way to go on your ride! You never cease to amaze me, girl. What sport are you gonna conquer next?!

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 1:19 pm

      YAY congrats on your win!

  • Therese Dansby April 19, 2010, 12:44 pm

    Have you had a bike fitting lately? The only time my knees ever hurt while biking is when my seat was too high and when I’m riding in too hard of a gear. Cadence is more important than “feeling it” in your legs. Congrats on your metric century! Runners don’t give biking enough credit. It’s definitely a sport in its own right!

  • Allison April 19, 2010, 12:48 pm

    My most incredible race experience was finishing the 2010 Disney Princess Half Marathon. I began running in January 2009 and did the 5k during Princess Weekend at Disney – it was my ultimate goal to complete the half marathon the next year and I DID! I wrote about the incredible experience on my blog: http://allisonisactive.wordpress.com/2010/03/13/disney-princess-half-marathon-weekend-part-2/

  • The Healthy Hostess April 19, 2010, 12:59 pm

    My most favorite race experience so far is running a half marathon this past October – 4 months pregnant! I was training for the full when we found out we were pregnant so I ran the half! The worst part was the 3 bathroom stops in 2 hours!
    Congrats on your amazing races! I can’t wait to get back out there and do some races! I should try a bike race – spinning has been my workout of choice sine being pregnant! Now my baby is 5 days LATE and I am ready to meet him/her!

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 1:20 pm

      you are an awesome pregnant lady!

  • The Healthy Hostess April 19, 2010, 12:59 pm
  • Erinn April 19, 2010, 1:16 pm

    The last 10K I did was really awesome. It was a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning and also my mother’s 50th birthday. I finished way ahead of her, but cheering her on as she ran over the finish line was so wonderful. I am so proud of her! She had only ever run one 5K in her life.

    On another note, do you incorporate strength training for your knees and legs to combat the runner’s knee? Would that help?

  • Elizabeth April 19, 2010, 1:18 pm

    My first half-marathon was the best race experience I have ever had. I trained the whole summer and most of that semester for it and when I actually crossed the finish line 5 seconds before my goal time, it was amazing. I was almost sad though, because I really enjoyed the whole “Working towards a goal” thing.

    So I just read your previous posts dealing with your knee injury and doctor visits. During half marathon training, i began to have knee pain after I got up to 10 miles. I went to the doctor after my race and was also diagnosed with chondromalacia. Like your first doctor, mine also said that as long as I keep running, i would have this problem.
    I’m so glad to know that i’m not the only one! Maybe I should get a second opinion like you did. I have to say, I was a wreck the first few days after I found out I wasn’t supposed to run.

    I’m glad that I came across your other posts because now I feel much better about running again. the few times that I have run this semester, I have been wearing an Ace bandage, but I think I’ll order one like yours.

    Sorry this is long-winded, but I have 2 questions:
    Can you share the quad and knee strengthening exercises that you do?
    And, I saw that you learned the taping technique. Is it with kinesio tape? I used that stuff when i had shin splints once, but I don’t know how to do it for knee problems. Would you mind telling me your method?

    Thanks! I love your blog

    • Caitlin April 19, 2010, 1:21 pm

      Sorry you’re having knee problems 🙁

      The video for the strengthening moves is on that post that I linked to about solutions to knee pain.

      And I don’t really feel comfortable telling people how to use kinseo tape since I’m not licensed to do so. My physical therapist taught me. Maybe there are videos by PTs online?

      Hope that helps!

  • Elizabeth April 19, 2010, 1:24 pm

    Ok, sorry, I guess I didnt read your knee posts thoroughly enough. I just watched the video on your strengthening exercises and also found a video on taping.
    Sorry about that!
    Oh yeah, and great job on your bike race!

  • runnerforever April 19, 2010, 1:39 pm

    Great job on the race and recovering so well, very impressive! Nice looking pancakes too, yum!

  • Laura April 19, 2010, 1:41 pm

    Having only started running mid-January 2010 and have only done 1 race so far, that would have to be my best race experience!! 😉
    http://tidbitsfrommymind.wordpress.com/2010/04/05/first-race-recap/
    That first 5K race got me HOOKED for good! I finished with a personal best and have since registered for a 10K which is coming up on May 1!!! i’m so pumped!

  • Jess (www.upsanddownes.wordpress.com) April 19, 2010, 1:45 pm
  • Heather (runningwithsass.com) April 19, 2010, 1:51 pm

    my best race was the mardi gras half this year! it was such a fun weekend and I PR’ed by over 16 minutes!
    http://runningwithsass.com/2010/03/01/mardi-gras-rnr-race-recap/

  • Olivia @ Blissful Runner April 19, 2010, 1:52 pm

    My most memorable running experience was at the Frederick Half Marathon last year. I had to travel for the race and realized the morning of that I had forgotten to pack a sports bra. FAIL! I ran the whole race in a Victoria Secret push-up bra. At least the girls looked good in photos!

  • Theorist April 19, 2010, 3:01 pm

    My most memorable race was the first one I ever did. It was 5k walk. After I walked it I left pretty fast b/c my sister was in town and she wanted to go shopping. Later that day I learned that I had actually won for my age group which was funny b/c I did not they literally meant race. LOL!

  • Lauren April 19, 2010, 3:06 pm

    I ran my first half marathon and have never felt more proud after crossing that finish line. Amazing journey!
    http://www.garrettandlauren.com/2009/06/race-report.html

  • Katharine April 19, 2010, 3:29 pm

    My most recent race was my first! A 5k. It was something I never thought I’d be able to do because I have cystic fibrosis, a genetic lung disease, but I decided I would do what I had to to get it done! And I did – crossing that finish line was an amazing feeling, and now I’ll be running another 5k at the end of May. My goal? To run a half marathon. We shall see… 🙂

  • Lindsay April 19, 2010, 3:42 pm

    I ran the same 5K race last year and this year. I’ve never really been a runner, but this year I decided to train and cut my time from 32:36 to 26:59!!! Now THAT felt amazing! Not to mention I now love to run!

  • Bekah @ The Veggie Mistress April 19, 2010, 4:07 pm

    I ran my first 10k last weekend, and I felt amazing when I crossed the finish line! I never, ever thought that I would be able to run that far, especially finishing strong and pround, ready for more. In fact, now is a good time to tell you that YOU inspired me to enter my first race, a 5k last August. I stumbled across your blog last year when I was reading wedding blogs, and your encouraging stories inspired me to start training! Now I’ve set my sights on what once seemed impossible – a half marathon.

    Here’s my (mini) 10k recap:
    http://theveggiemistress.blogspot.com/2010/04/big-announcement.html

  • Claire April 19, 2010, 4:19 pm

    My most memorable was my most recent. Yesterday, I ran the Skyline to the Sea trail run, from the top of the Santa Cruz mountains all the way out to the ocean. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life, I was the youngest person (I’m only 17), but I took first in my group. =] Some parts you couldn’t run even if you wanted to, with fallen redwood trees we had to climb over, rivers we crossed by jumping across rocks, and huge hills with only a two foot wide path alongside a cliff. Nevertheless, it was gorgeous, an adventure, and well worth it.

  • Amanda (The Shoe Perspective) April 19, 2010, 4:27 pm

    I ran a half mile and didn’t finish dead last! YAY!!! That’s my most memorable. And deciding I’m starting the c25k! 🙂

  • Vaala April 19, 2010, 5:46 pm

    I think the race that was the most memorable (in a positive way) was my very first adventure race. I’d barely been on a bike before then and I remember standing at the start line freaking out. Crossing the finish line was the best experience ever.

    But it’s funny how the most memorable races (at least for me) are the ones which had the worst experiences in them! So I think my most memorable race was another adventure race I did at the beginning of this year where my team mate came close to passing out and we were in the bush without enough light when night came (and I’m scared of the dark!). Made for a few good stories afterwards though!

  • Wendy April 19, 2010, 7:14 pm

    My most, um, memorable race experience was my most recent(third) half marathon, a week ago. The weather was gorgeous at the start – clear skies, high 40s, but it warmed up quickly to ~70 by 1.5 hrs after the start (quite warm for MO in April!). I had a goal to finish under 2 hours, and did a really, really horrible job of pacing myself. I went out at an 8:30/mile pace, which, by mile 2, I knew I had no chance of keeping up. By the midpoint of the race, I had started run/walking to try to conserve what energy I had left. Then, about 1.5 miles from the finish, I guy collapsed RIGHT in front of me. I stopped for a minute or so until I knew help was on the way, but it was scary – he was totally unresponsive! I started staggering myself in the homestretch, and blacked out after crossing the finish line. I only vaguely remember crossing the finish, but I have zero recollection of how I got from the street to a cot in the medical tent. It took over an hour for me to recover enough to be able to stand and walk on my own, but thankfully I didn’t have to have an IV like several other runners I saw. The worst part was that at the time, I couldn’t remember whether I had crossed the finish line or if they had carried me off the course! I was going to be extremely upset if I DNF’d with the finish line in sight!! Anyway, I now have an official time, official race photos, and a finisher’s medal to prove that yes, I did indeed finish the race. AND while I didn’t achieve my goal time, I DID beat my PR by ~40 seconds, finishing in 2:06:33, and I am proud. That was by far my hardest earned race medal. 🙂

    Lessons learned: stick to my OWN pace, not someone else’s! And: take race day conditions into consideration before committing to a hard and fast goal. I swear I learn something new during every race I run!

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) April 19, 2010, 7:53 pm

    I haven’t raced before, but I am registered for a 5k on May 30th.

  • Eric April 19, 2010, 9:09 pm

    I’m on week 2 of the Couch to 5K and here is a recap of the race that got me inspired to start. Mostly walking with a little jogging and a time of 49:24 which was a great improvement on my previous walking-only 5K times of 58 and 57 minutes. I hope to finish the training and then truly “run” a 5K.
    http://runningfromthepast.wordpress.com/2010/04/05/lillies-friends-got-friends-5k/

  • Candice April 19, 2010, 9:37 pm

    I have two favorite races so far! The first was my first half marathon that I completed when we lived in Thailand. I had never been a runner before at all, and my husband and I randomly decided to sign up for the Phuket (southern Thailand beach town) “Run Paradise” half marathon. It was incredible, and left me longing for more. Which brings me to my next favorite race – my first full marathon run one year ago this weekend! Here’s the recap link:)

    http://chiaseedme.com/?page_id=109

    What a fun post!

  • Rachael April 19, 2010, 9:57 pm

    I’m signed up for my first road race ever on May 23rd, a 10km. I completely blew my training plan out of the water when my scheduled 6km run this past weekend turned into 13km!!

    http://rhankinson.blogspot.com/2010/04/new-pdr.html

    I’m looking forward to the actual race, which is 5 weeks away. So excited!!

  • maria @ Chasing the Now April 19, 2010, 10:34 pm

    I’ve only ran one race, so far. It was my college’s homecoming 5K in October 2008. I am so proud that I took a leap of faith and told everyone I was going to do it–something pretty unlike me. But that was just what I needed in order to motivate myself to train. My time wasn’t great compared with some of the 5K distances I’ve completed since, but I am still proud!

  • John April 19, 2010, 10:44 pm

    I’ve run two races. One Half Marathon and one Olympic Triathlon. Both were within 7 months of being a couch potato.
    My HM I ran in 2:12:24 at 267lbs. My OlyTri I did on 3:04:35 at 257lbs. I was really ecstatic about both times based on time training and weight. I should have never stopped doing races as now I’m trying to get back there again.

    P.S: How much to come clean my place? lol

    • Caitlin April 20, 2010, 7:36 am

      heheh i only do 1 home per month!!

  • Britt @ Runnerbelle April 20, 2010, 8:53 am

    I ran Boston yesterday! It was my 5th Boston and 13th marathon overall, no full race recap yet but I did a few quick photos and results. (my 65 year old mother all ran and kicked ass!)

    http://www.runnerbelle.com/?p=738

  • KatieF April 20, 2010, 6:16 pm

    Am I too late to share a race story? I’ve been without my computer for a few days because I was out of town running Boston!!!

    This was my fifth marathon (first Boston) and it was by far the most tactical race I’ve ever run–I forced myself to hold back a little for the first 13 miles, then pushed for the second 13. I ended up running fairly even splits until mile 20, when I sped up and ran a negative split in the last 6 miles. I desperately wanted to slow down and walk near the end, but I looked around at the crowds (three deep in most places for the last 6 miles) and out of pride, wouldn’t allow myself to let up. I finished in 3:32:11–a PR by 44 seconds! I can barely walk today, but it was well worth it! I was signed up for Boston last year but couldn’t run because of a stress fracture that developed three weeks beforehand, so I was thrilled to just be able to finally run this–the PR was just the icing on the cake.

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) April 20, 2010, 8:11 pm

    My greatest race was the last one I ran. http://itallchanges.wordpress.com/2010/04/04/3-more-times/

    I ran a Quarter marathon to prove to myself I could run longer distances. I hadn’t been feeling well for at least a week before hand and hadn’t run. The day of the race I was so excited so I decided to run. It was a two loop course and I was cursing at myself when I saw the fact that I had to run right past Hunni to do the second loop. I thought about quitting but when I finished I had the greatest feeling. And I love wearing the shirt around town. I would have felt like a cheater if I didn’t finish but still wore the shirt.

  • sirenjess April 21, 2010, 7:56 am

    I RAN THE BOSTON MARATHON!!!!! Now my legs hate me and my right foot. I actually did okay considering I walked A LOT. The weather was perfect and the spectators were wonderful. When I finished the race I told my husband “hell no never again I’m done with Boston.” I changed my mind….the race is amazing I just need to prepare better next year for the downhills because that is what gets you.

    • Caitlin April 21, 2010, 8:48 am

      CONGRATSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

  • Meredith April 21, 2010, 8:28 am

    I just ran the Boston Marathon too!! I set a new PR by 7 minutes with my 3:14:33 finishing time. Better than my time last year at Boston by 14 minutes! It was such an amazing day and I ran my heart out. Can’t wait for the 90-minute massage I have scheduled this afternoon.

    • Caitlin April 21, 2010, 8:50 am

      wowowowow!!! you are fast!

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