Around the Bay Journey

Created on Friday, 30 December 2011 19:46

Okay, just because you ran this morning does that mean you need to register for a 30 k race?

I've been wanting to do the "Around the Bay Road Race" for some time now.  I keep saying to myself, this is the year.  I get side tracked and I don't sign up or train.  This year 2012 is the year for me.  I've done the 30K race before.  Although I can't remember if it's been 3 times or 2 times.  Around the Bay Road Race is the oldest North American running race.  It's even older than the Boston Marathon.  This race brings people from all over, putting Hamilton on the map.  Approximately 8,000 participants will line up in downtown Hamilton where the race will take them around the bay of Lake Ontario.  The challenging part about this race is the last 10 k.  It is all hills.  The first 20K is nice and flat.  Many will take off too fast, push themselves to hard and struggle at the hills.  You need to reserve your energy for the hills.  Finally, the race ends at Copps Colliseum which is very exhilarating running in to Copps on the ground level. 

Today I need to work out a schedule for myself.  Trying to balance work, family and running.  I signed up with the Runner's Den clinic.  Gord Pauls (the owner) was very supportive, encouraging and happy to have me sign on.  I need the accountability for the longer runs.  It gets boring running by yourself for 25 K.  

I am also challenging myself with diet.  A lot of the energy drinks and power gels, in my opinion are junk.  I want to keep my energy up using whole foods and super foods.  My struggle is adrenals.  I am going to be working on supporting my adrenals through the training and like I said keeping the energy up.  Usually what happens to me 2 or 3 weeks prior to the race, my training slows down.  I start tapering too soon.  I still complete the race, but not as efficient as I suppose I could.  

I am starting to get excited.  Stay tune for more running, training, dietary, tips.

Here's a challenge for YOU.  If you find the winter months are long, dark and depressing.  Get out and do something recreational.  Whether it's learning how to skate, ski or snowboarding.  Get out and enjoy this season.  Before you know it, we'll be in to spring.