I have always loved running. I have been a runner since a small child and even participated in running sports such as cross country and track. I love to run. However, I do not like to race.
I find that I DO race to keep me motivated and accountable with my running goals. Otherwise I grow stagnant with the same 3.1 mile loop in my neighborhood.
I have also found that I love running MORE since becoming a mom. Running for me gives me the much needed endorphin release that is needed for me to be the mother, wife, and caregiver to my family.
The past few weeks we have been having nasty wet, windy weather. My running has been few and far between resulting in a less than pleasant MOMMY-mood. Thank goodness the sun is shining and the temperatures are warming up.
I am bit by the racing bug and have taken the plunge to join in on a few local races.
This past weekend, I challenged myself with a 5 Mile TRAIL Race.
The morning of a race is always an adventure. I was up before the boys (yes, all three little ones and my husband). I was dressed, fueling and hydrating myself. I was ready to head out the door in 5 minutes, but the T-man was STILL sleeping. I knew that if I didn’t nurse him, running would be problematic and TheMan’s morning would be a bit more ‘whiney’.
I needed to nurse!
Thankfully, T woke just in time for me to nurse him (one side) before heading out the door for my race. I figured lopsided is better than hooter-sized.
I got to the starting line in plenty of time. I drank my water and fueled up with my GU Chomps (Strawberry flavored). I was ready to go!
The race was on a single lane DIRT path (think horse trail). It was a trail run where you have to watch for pot holes, rocks, mud puddles and more. The trail was so narrow that in order to pass the person in front of you, you had to run through the high weeds on either side of the beaten path. There were hills, crevices, single foot bridges and places where the Sacramento River has flooded over the trail. The race was an adventure to say the least.
The race officials had to move around the course that morning due to the flood level of the river going over the race course. Those small changes resulted in a little bit of an overage of the race… but not too significant.
Even though I do not usually run on trails, I had a great time. I PR’d (personal record) and felt great. I actually could have gone faster (and further) had I been more familiar with the course.
My unofficial 5 mile time was: 44:33
When I arrived at home, my boys were very excited to hear about my adventure in racing.
Seeing their smiling (PROUD) faces when I came home reminded me exactly why I run.
I run for them!
I run for ME!
Virginia from That Bald Chick says
Good for you! I want to start running, but am trying to figure out WHEN I will do it. I am not much of a morning person (just ask Hubs) and with a 2yo and 3yo, I just don’t know WHEN it will work. What time of day do you normally run?
Rachel says
Hi V! Thanks for stopping by! Running in the morning (mid morning) works well for me (say 9/10ish). I prefer to run solo… but if that is not possible I push the double jogger (which is a workout in itself!!). Have you heard of the Couch to 5K program? You can go from a NON runner to running 3.1 miles over the course of a few weeks!
I would love to help you get started on your running journey! Let me know what questions you might have! 🙂 I am here to help!
Virginia from That Bald Chick says
I’ve been reading the about the C25K program, as well as reading Hal Higdon’s program (http://www.halhigdon.com/#5-k). I have degenerative disc disease with nerve impingement at L4-5 and chronic radiculopathy. The fear of a flare up (with resultant trips to the pain specialist) is what holds me back. I use an elliptical, which is almost NO impact, so going from that to a 5K will be a challenge. But, I really want to do it. So, I just have to figure out the timing thing. Thanks, BTW, for the encouragement!
Heather @ Not a DIY Life says
LOL! I didn’t start running until LB weaned so I’ve never dealt with the need to nurse before running. Just one of the MANY things that a mother must do. 🙂
Great job, Rachel! 🙂
Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun says
I cracked up when you said running one sided is better than lopsided. Oh, I have a feeling I will face the same thing on my first race in a couple weekends.
Yasher says
Way to go, running momma! 🙂
Michelle says
I loved this!! I have found that I love running and being active in general more since I became a mom. Suddenly, living healthy isn’t just about me anymore. Taking care of yourself as a mom is so important, and so rewarding!!
Way to go on your race! Sounds like an exciting trail to say the least!
Tara says
Awesome!!!
lorrie says
great job on your race loved seeing the pictures and hearing your story of the day