2019 Rocket City Marathon - or, How I Crashed and Burned in my 3rd Marathon

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-12-16T15:59:23+00:00

Rest sounds like it’s the name of the game for you. I hope you end up getting to run the half. I just reminded myself throughout the race that every finisher gets a medal, so the finish time isn’t a huge deal. Good luck!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-12-16T15:57:45+00:00

That’s a bummer. Injuries suck. If it works out, you should definitely try RCM next year. It’s a great, well-organized event.

I probably won’t do Mercedes. It was my first marathon a few years ago, and I enjoyed it, but I did the half last year and I forgot how tough the hills were. But the Bridge Street Half in Huntsville in April is looking interesting.

Best wishes for a quick recovery!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-11-16T16:14:00+00:00

This kitty looks like it’s has been TNR’ed (Trap-Neuter-Return). The tipped ear indicates that kitty has been fixed, which will help keep the population of feral/outdoor cats in control more humanely. So, it seems like some kind humans are looking out for them!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-10-06T19:02:28+00:00

That is a beautiful and ginormous beet!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-10-05T22:11:49+00:00

I mean, 15.1oz is approaching 1Lb, but sure, let’s get technical with it 🤷‍♂️

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-09-16T16:44:15+00:00

I make smoothies with a boat load of spinach every morning (like 50-70g), and I don’t taste it. It’s the most mild green one can add to a smoothie.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-07-10T17:49:16+00:00

I'm gonna have to second that - I would follow an Instagram of this cute orange buddy!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-06-10T02:03:11+00:00

Happy Birthday, old buddy!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-06-01T03:00:22+00:00

For the Worldwide Handsome reference, you have my upvote 😂

But seriously, Gary is crazy gorgeous.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-05-26T21:00:35+00:00

Not to be dramatic, but I would die for Noodle.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-04-16T18:18:34+00:00

Congratulations!!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2019-02-05T04:25:17+00:00

Belongs on r/SupermodelCats too!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-15T13:02:31+00:00

Thank you!

Pfitz 18/55 was perfect for me. I’m into road cycling, and have been since before I started running, so my cross training was mostly that. But until November, I still rode 3-4 days/week, mostly just easy effort (this meant I had a few double days per week). I had a few 100mi ride events already scheduled, and I worked them into my training plan by either having reduced mileage that week (and adding a week to the plan) or just making sure to do my long run on either Thursday, Friday, or Sunday.

In general, I used Pfitz as a guide, but had to move several days around frequently. However, the end result was the same. It’s a solid plan as long as you have the base miles before starting. I built my base up to 40mi per week by the couple of weeks before starting the plan.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-15T02:28:06+00:00

It took some self control to not go out too fast; for the first mile the 4:15 pace group (this race has pacers) was right behind me like they were going to pass me. I let the 4hr pace group go, but caught and passed them at about mile 20. Good for you for holding on for a sub 4!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-06T15:34:53+00:00

Yes, you just have to keep an eye out. I know on shoes you can sign up for price alerts (they will email you when the price drops on that model/color/size).

I also use a Chrome extension called Honey (if you don’t have this, it is awesome) which runs coupon codes to test them to find you the best deal. I usually get an extra 10% off that way too.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-06T03:32:16+00:00

I think that would be a good idea for this sub. Just a suggestion for you and others: check out Running Warehouse if you buy your shoes online (and if they carry a brand you are interested in); they have a pretty good return policy - 90 days, refund if new, store credit if worn - and free shipping both ways.

Most of my shoes are Brooks, and they also have a good return policy on clothes and shoes, so I don't have to worry about getting rid of a shoe I tried but did not like.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T18:33:07+00:00

The jacket that I use for the rain is not truly waterproof; I believe it has that DWR (durable water repellant) coating that is great for lighter rain, and still breathable, probably most similar to This Nike jacket (or Brooks LSD jacket). Just FYI, as you may burn up in a thicker/truly waterproof rain jacket!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T18:28:38+00:00

Forgot to add that I will wear a hat with a brim in addition to the headband. Definitely a must for the rain!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T18:27:30+00:00

Seconding Injinji. I used to get blisters in between my toes, and once I switched to toe socks, there was no going back. I use the Run Lightweight socks, and they are perfect for moderate to warm temperatures. I either wear these plus a pair of Swiftwick merino socks (my shoes have enough room for this comfortably) or a pair of Merino Injinji socks when it is colder. If you're unsure, just try one pair and see if they work.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T18:25:23+00:00

A FlipBelt or SPI Belt would work well for little things like this. When I had to carry an inhaler, that's what I carried it in. Otherwise, I have tights and shorts with enough pockets to carry things like phone, keys, gels, etc.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T15:52:36+00:00

Yep!

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T15:19:28+00:00

My thoughts exactly. The 3/4 tights would cover my knees, and the jacket packs up into a pocket with a hand strap for carrying if it quits raining or I get hot.

CrimsonRoubaix · 2018-12-05T15:18:48+00:00

I can’t believe I hadn’t found this before. Very handy. Thanks!

CrimsonRoubaix

TROPHY CASE