2017 Year in Review

2017 Year in Review

The members of our Louisville, KY Moms Run This Town/She Runs This Town would like to share our 2017 Year in Review video with you! Click below to see a glimpse of the fun we had this year.  It was amazing to watch so many ladies crush their running and fitness goals this year. 

If this year is any indication, 2018 should be EPIC.

Are you ready to be supported and motivated in your running journey?  Whether you are new to running or a seasoned runner, we are here to support you in your goals.  

Join the largest running group for women in Louisville - it is FREE! Start now by clicking here and answering a few short questions. The rest is herstory.

Louisville Ironman - Race Report by Abbi A.

Some of the worst decisions make the best stories.

My Ironman day recap.

Thanks to everyone who helped me get this far, my family, colleagues at work, training partners, Facebook friends, my Ironman go–to buddies (Jennifer & Jessica), and especially to Glenn and my boys, who gave up their time to help me.

I had calculated my “best” and “worst” possibilities for a finish many times, taking into consideration the bike accident and loss of the past 5 weeks of training. I knew, prior to the accident, I could do a 1:20-1:30 swim. I knew I was going to be close to the bike cutoff, I’m just not a strong biker. I was determined to make the run a breeze!

Murray and I walked down to the swim start together. He had been staying with me and was amazingly helpful keeping my nerves in check. Saying good luck to him and see you later, I set myself in the 1:20-1:30 swim group, hoping for the best with my torn up shoulder. There wasn’t much time to be nervous they had us run to the end of the dock and jump, no waiting. I had a little pain at first, but then got into a good swim stride and only noticed issues occasionally. At the turn around, I felt I was in a good position to get my time, so I took some time to reflect while swimming under the bridges. I figured how often am I going to be swimming out here? Only for Ironman. I’m glad I took some time and didn’t miss out on my swim experience. I really enjoyed the swim, but not the choppy water. I ended up with a 1:31 on my swim. I came in to have my wetsuit stripped by Glenn. There were lots of volunteers cheering for me also. Glenn spent a few moments checking how I was feeling, then sent me off to the bike course.

My transition went well, changing out of my swimsuit and getting everything on for the long ride ahead. I had a great volunteer who had to help me. I made a list of all the things I needed to make sure I didn’t forget anything. She patiently read the list twice for me. My kids wrote me little notes to encourage me (awe). I carried them with me in my jersey pocket. Once I was all done and loaded up, I went to grab Dusty. She was the only bike left in my whole row in transition that was just sad.

We went out the first 10 miles strong, but not too hard. The wind was to my back and we flew. I wanted to make up some mph early with the bonus wind, since when I came back I knew it was going to get ugly if it didn’t calm down. I kept in mind this was the beginning of the longest ride I’ve ever done, so didn’t push too hard.

We hit the loop at about mile 20. Up until now, we were doing great and keeping about an 18-20 mph average. The hills are steep the first 8-10 miles of the loop. I really like them though because you can get a lot of speed going down. I was passed a bunch on the first loop by some of the fast riders who were on their second loop. When we made the turn toward LaGrange, I had lots of mixed emotions. I was getting ready to see the spot I was hit for the first time since that day.  However, once we hit LaGrange, the crowds were so loud, I didn’t even see the intersection where it happened.

We rode around the loop, up and down and up and down... repeat 800 million times. Then we turned onto 42, which took us back to the start of the loop (miles 44-55), and the wind hit head on. Ron tells me there were 45 mph gusts and I would have to agree. It started to rain a bit, but just lightly and not for long. I was thrilled when a fast dude passed me and said, “This wind is brutal!” I knew then it wasn’t my lack of experience that made riding in the wind awful, but it was truly awful for everyone.

When we got to the bike special needs stop, mile 60, I had a little break down. I was happy to see Glenn, but knew I couldn’t spend much time with him. The first thing I said was “I HATE THIS!” and “Don’t every let me do this again!” I saw Alicia too, who gave me some salt and a hug. As I was leaving, I ran into Shay. He jinxed me and commented that it’s lucky we only got a little bit of rain, it could have been worse. Oh Shay...

I took off feeling a little refreshed and determined to get this done under the cut off. We’re given 10:20:00 to finish the swim and bike. My first loop I slowed to a crawl of about 12.5 mph, dumb wind. The wind didn’t calm for the second loop. When I got back to hwy 42 (at mile79), I had the best surprise, one of the “moms run this town” who lives out there, made me a sign and was out cheering me on. I saw and took a minute and said, gee that’s my name! I was so pumped after that, it was the best!

My elation didn’t last long, soon after the clouds opened up and my own version of hell began. It poured, the temps dropped and the wind was relentless. I think the worst of it lasted about 10 miles. The whole time all that went through my mind was... Why? Did I not have enough challenges in training, now this?? It was bad enough that the cars passing had to use their wipers on med-high, not intermittent. Dusty was a trooper. She plowed through the wet streets with no problem. I knew we didn’t have time to waste, so I gave her all she had with little regard to the wet ground. I did remember what Ron said, no riding on the painted lines and prime your brakes to help the tires dry before trying to stop.

Somehow we made it to river road, the last 8-mile stretch. Everyone around me was super encouraging. We were all freezing, soaked to the bones and exhausted. The volunteer took Dusty from me when we got back I was so excited I told him I could kiss him (I didn’t, I was quite nasty by this point)! When we got to transition, I was so cold my hands shook too hard to even dress myself. The wonderful volunteer took my wet stuff off, put my dry stuff out and patiently, again, read the to-do list. I got another note, this time from Xander and practically cried!

I had always said, get me to the run and I’ll prance, dance and fly to the finish! Well, that’s fine in my head, but in reality, not so much. I spent the first mile eating and walking. I was hungry like never before. My target I set for myself was about a 5-hour marathon. The run course is also two loops. On my first loop I got to see Kristen, Laura & Haley, Tony and a bunch of the Landsharks. Tamarri, Cynthia & Todd, and Ron & Shawn also came out to cheer me on. Then at the half point, Tracy joined me to run me over to the special needs area. There seemed to be quite a few “moms run this town” moms too. With everyone coming out, I felt like a rock star!

I was on target at the half for my 5-hour marathon when Tracy told me that I would get in to the finish about 11:30. I thought then, this is my only IM; I should really enjoy myself more. I slowed down, took more walk breaks and chatted with some other runners. I wanted to soak in the atmosphere and make this memorable. I knew I could get in by the 12:30 cutoff. I felt great, not dehydrated, not tired, but super sore and hungry.

As I approached the finish, I remembered what Jennifer told me; take your time in the shoot, high five everyone and soak it all in. I did just that. Glenn met me at the finish and put my medal on. Coming across the finish was definitely the best part of the whole day, but having Glenn and everyone else out there cheering for me was incredible. 

December Challenge

The energy with the November challenge has been infectious. Let's finish out the year strong! 

The December Challenge is here and it is the month of JOY! Choose from the following options to celebrate your JOY!

1) Set a monthly goal. Post JOYful selfies with friends along the way for us to cheer you on!

2) Post how you are enJOYing the holidays!

3) Celebrate the JOY of strength training with some weekly challenges:

Week 1 - 25 jumping jacks
Week 2 - 25 squats
Week 3 - 25 lunges (each leg)
Week 4 - 25 pushups

You can add on each exercise per week for an added challenge or just do the week's challenge. Whatever brings you JOY!

Reaper 30K - Race Report

A few weekends ago I did the Reaper 30K at Salt Lick, KY. The course is part of Daniel Boone National Forrest. I signed up for this race last year not ready to make the leap from 25K to 50K. It was also really cheap. I liked the description of “part road and part trail”. I did all this before I decided to take on a marathon this past spring in hopes that I would have the mental stamina for a 50K. The 30K became part of my training plan for my upcoming 50K.

I decided to stay in Lexington with my sister in law at the last minute. When I went to bed I kept waking up thinking it was time to get up. When I finally fell asleep, my alarm went off. I was tired from getting ready to wake up. I meant to wake at 5am and got up at 5:50. I ate 2 hardboiled eggs and had an espresso. I made it out the door at 6:30. The GPS said I would make it to the campground at 8:07am. As a runner, I prioritized a bowel movement at home rather than uncomfortable insides for the duration of the race.  I had to go through lots of traffic lights downtown Lexington before I got to I-64. I was driving towards a spectacular sunrise. I told myself I would be running soon enough. I focused on the drive as it was part of the race journey.

When I got to the campground the runners were off. I had to stop and wait for them to pass. The last minute change in the emails said it would be a “beach start”. I made a wrong turn following signs for the “beach”. I was glad to see where they started so I could find the starting line. While I waited for them to pass, I shed my fleece and hat, which was one small thing I could do to get ready. I saw my MRTT friends Amy and Tammy run by. I also saw Bob, a friend I made during the Horse Capital marathon, run by, which is always a good sign for me.

It wasn’t a very big race so I found parking easily. I put on my compression socks and shoes. I went with my Brooks Cascadia anticipating climbs similar to the Rough Trail.  I strapped on my hydration pack and headed to the start. Since I was late, they didn’t want to give me my bib without first consulting with someone. They gave me my bib and agreed to give me my shirt afterwards. She was kind enough to put my keys in my hydration pack. Her only instruction was that I start through the chute so my time is official, even though it was 12 minutes later than everyone else. Then I was off. I started on the road that I saw all the other runners just a few minutes prior. I stopped on the side of the road to pee. After an hour and a half in the car and that espresso, I couldn’t wait until I got on the trail.

The trailhead was inconspicuous and could be missed had it not been marked with pink flags. On the trail, being late was a distant memory. I was on a mission to catch Tammy and Amy, if that was even possible. The thought of running a 30K without them was lonely. Those first few miles were up a mountain. There were many switch backs on a dirt before I caught up to the sweepers. They asked me if I was the last racer. Then asked me to go ahead of them. I ran a little while longer until I caught a set of walkers who also asked me to go ahead of them. They commented that I was actually breathing hard. I was heartened that I wouldn’t finish last.

There were many downed trees on this trail, I had to go through, over and under a lot of logs. There were signs with the reaper that read “you didn’t think this would be easy did you lol” and it wasn’t. But it was early in the race and I thought, not today man in the mask devoid of color. I pressed on until I came upon a road and found more people walking. At that point I decided since I had trained mostly on road that this road and any flat would be runnable despite my legs being in shock from that ascent/descent. I told myself if I jogged these, I could walk the steeper sections.

The road led to the first aid station. I didn’t stop since I had had a snack earlier on. It led to more trails that went along Cave Run Lake. The view was stunning. After some very intense weeks at work, I was overjoyed to be in the woods. The weather was perfect. At the 5 mile point, I paused to text my husband. He, my son and sister in law were planning to meet me at the finish. I told them I would keep him updated on my progress. It was also at that moment that I read that friends had sent me messages wishing me a good race. I sent emojis back not mentioning my tardiness. I was happy for cell service out there.

As I moved along, I met up with a couple of women that told me they were from Ohio. I told them I started late. They said they wished that were the case for them and said they were slow. I wished them luck and asked if I could pass. They moved aside politely and I pressed on. I told myself these moments in the forest were the “me” time I had been craving with work being manic. This was an active reset and I didn’t want it to end. After some gnarly turns I found my friend Bob. He told me he back tracked seeing signs on the trail that were in the opposite direction. He was afraid we were headed the wrong way given the recent course changes. We headed back until we found the ladies from Ohio. They thought the course was properly marked since they were told by volunteers that the race director was out the day before marking the course. I was not nervous about the race. In my hectic work weeks, I had not reviewed the course. I relied on volunteers, flags and ribbon leading the way. I had no doubts until that point. The three of us followed Bob up a hill and past the backwards slippery rocks sign to the 2^nd aid station. I picked up an Oreo and a quarter of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I don’t normally buy Oreos and or would eat a pbj on white but those things were phenomenal. I also refilled my water bottles. I always have one water and one electrolyte beverage. They had sword at this aid station. I passed Bob at this point. I was running high on Oreo cookie. There was a downhill after the aid station and I took advantage of gravity to fly down the hill.  At some point I paused to text Angelo I had made it to the 10 mile mark. He wrote back and said it was faster than my first 5 miles. I then told him I was late to the start. This was probably nails to a chalkboard for him since he is always on time. I did not explain the choice between a BM and a late start. Since he is a runner I knew he would understand.  So I pressed on. I learned during my long runs that a consistent snacking helped me feel normal during long distances. I had honey stinger chews and a gel in addition to the waffles.

The next aid station was on the top of a mountain. There were women cheering for each runner as they made it to the station. They had potato chips and Halloween candy. I had chips and a Reese’s peanut butter cup. I met Diana, a woman who recognized me as part of MRTT. She ran the Rough Trail last year too. She was having knee pain from an injury. She was hoping for sport tape at this aid station. I ran down not wanting to linger since I was feeling fatigued.

As I ran down the hill, I recalled one of the trail running podcasts that said to change something up if it’s not working. I recalled the person being interviewed saying she ran faster as the change. I did the same hoping my legs would feel less like lead. The increased pace and decreased contact with the ground helped. I was thankful that my friend and coach Jeanette that advised me last winter that I should read race reports and listen to podcasts to build my mental stamina. This was the downfall of my first marathon. Looking back during my 25k last year in these woods, my outlook was very different. At some point I paused to text Angelo I had reached mile 15.

Diana had caught me at this point. We leap frogged on the trail sort of chatting but in our own heads and running our own races. Mile 15 was a relief knowing I was almost done. Even though I had caught up to runners and walkers, I was still in the chase mindset. I heard kids cheering for runners as they reached the aid station. I was overjoyed to find it was Tammy and Amy. Amy was telling the aid station volunteer that she didn’t care what they had that she would try it all. It looked like a pumpkin bread loaf. When she saw me she gave me a bear hug and said she was so happy to see me. She and Tammy were fearful they would not let me race because of my late arrival. Amy said Tammy had been her rock during this race and that it was harder than the trail marathon she had just completed. I told them I thought the Rough Trail was much harder, which may or may not be true. Unlike the Rough Trail, I had not gone into this race sick.

We ran on the road at this point catching each other up on all things race and pre-race. The ladies told me they missed me the night before having shared a roasted chicken for dinner. I had shrimp and grits from the Craft House, which may or may not have been the best pre-race dinner. I would certainly have it again and the BM was worth a late start. I am not sure I said these words. It was the last stretch before that mountain I knew was coming. Amy said the race was the hardest she had ever done. I thought of the signs on this trail with the reaper on it. Ending on the downhill not be easy. At one point I had to get myself over a downed tree. It was huge and I could barely lift my legs to do it. We all laughed at the accidental straddling of the giant log.

At this point Diana had caught us. I told Amy and Tammy she was one of us. They asked her when she had joined the group. At some point we took a picture of ourselves overlooking a cliff. I hadn’t seen it when I started since it was foggy. It was hard to start again after a 10 second break, even though we were headed downhill. Tammy said we were just running down the side of a mountain, which was true. My quads were sore from climbing and my right knee hurt doing downhill. I had a wrap for it in my pack but not enough energy to put it on. The 30K was actually a 33K and we all wanted to be finished.

When we got on the road to the finish, I churned my legs as my friend surged ahead of me. I saw my family waiting for me by a school bus. My friends were ahead of me and told my family I was amazing.

I felt like my quads were a couple of slabs of meat. I will them to keep beating so that I would continue to move forward. The finish was in sight. My MRTT friends waited until I caught up so we could finish together. My son who has escorted me through a marathon and Olympic tri finish, also saw me through All of it felt glorious, beautiful and definitely worth repeating.

Lessons Learned:

• The girls mentioned that for some time, their conversation involved the word “fuck” a lot at the difficulty of the course.
• All we could talk about during the last descent was drinking a cold beer. I uttered the word “fuck” upon seeing the no alcoholic beverages sign on the campground
• Amy told me she was so happy to see me she almost cried.
• Amy and I were signing each other’s names, saying we were both badasses. We did this despite our own discomfort at the vertical climb. I recounted this part of our journey with our mutual friend Marian and said that it was love.
• The drive from Lexington is an hour and a half not an hour.
• Shrimp and cream cheese grits at the Craft House on Frankfurt Ave is amazing. I would definitely recommend it.          

Some Spectacular Stuff I Missed at the Start of the Race. This was taken by Tammy. 

November Challenge

Welcome to the November Challenge Event!! For new members, every month we host a challenge to help keep us motivated to reach our goals. Many individuals have recently completed races, are preparing for races, embracing taper week(s) or are on a running hiatus due to injury. No fear! November challenge is a fun challenge that can be adapted to fit everyone’s unique goals and needs! 

This time of year, is full of family, food and Thanksgiving. Novembers Challenge is one that can be adapted to the Holiday season and your schedule. 
We are all thankful for something, right? It could be family, friends, being able to run, a whole list of things. Well, this is your time to share it as well as setting aside a minimum of 10 mins of activity or 1 mile run/walk every day. It’s your choice, you can run 3 miles, do 10 minutes of stretching or run/walk a mile just as long as you’re making a conscience effort to be active. Post your progress daily or weekly, we want to cheer you on. Also, feel free to post your “Thankful for” posts daily as well with pictures of who, where or what your thankful for. We love pictures and selfies!

Not wanting to do the 10 min or 1 mile minimum daily challenge, no worries. Join in the Thankful for challenge. Post your monthly mileage goal and report to us regularly on how it’s going. Please track your own mileage and update your miles in your post. Make the challenge work for you! The most important thing is to remember to run with JOY!

Member Spotlight - Norma C

Name: Norma C.

Hometown: Louisville

Family:

I have 5 children (3 by birth and 2 was blessed to raise) all grown. I am married (again) and my husband is mostly a keeper and even when he's not I keep him anyways!

Why do you Run? I run because it challenges me! I am a run/walker and I want to be a run/runner!

Favorite non-running workout: Yoga

Favorite Training Plan: I am all over the place and still do not have the perfect training plan.

Where is your favorite place to run and why?

Seneca Loop - I love it because it is convenient to my work and I have made so many memories on that loop, like playing in the rain with Sabine haha

What is the one thing you absolutely need to run? Water!! It's my crutch!

What’s your opinion of perfect running weather? Warm weather is better for me I do not do cold well

What is your favorite post-run indulgence? Strawberry cheesecake Greek Yogurt

Member Spotlight: Rachel P.

Hi All! LRR here. I am excited to talk to you guys as the as the Marketing/Social Media Chair.  MRTT Louisville’s ability to bring together a diverse group is a gift that we have given each other. Some of us know each other well, others not so much. I introduced myself to a woman I thought was Rachel at last year’s Great Pumpkin 10K. It wasn’t Rachel. She was kind enough to let me know her name and that she would also be at the Urban Bourbon. Since then I haven’t gone up to any strangers thinking they are part of the group. To avoid these mishaps, our Chapter Leaders have shined the spotlight so our members are more easily identifiable. It’s probably not the reason but it certainly helps!  I now know who to keep in mind when the big mile training runs are scheduled and there are donuts involved. I did finally meet Rachel at a run at Seneca park. She was warm and open. I don't see her often but social media has given us a chance to get to know each other. I now think of her as a friend. I thought she was pretty badass when we met but this post confirms all that. See for yourself!

Name: Rachel P.

Hometown: Baldwin Park, CA

Family: I am married with two children.

Why do you Run?

I started running again March 2016, after a 6 year break following a knee injury. During that time I gained some weight, suffered from depression and battled with high cholesterol. In August of 2015, my doctor told me if I didn't lose weight and lower my cholesterol I'd have to go on a lifetime of meds. So, my weight loss journey started. By March 2016, I'd lost some weight and was ready to get my life back. Initially, my goal was to be able to pass the physical fitness test at work, which included a 1.5 mile run. A co-worker introduced me to MRTT in April of 2016. So, I joined in on group runs. To my surprise in October of 2016, I ran my first half marathon, Queen Bee, in 6 years, with the support of our MRTT mommas. Since then I've completed several half marathons, 1 full marathon, an 8-hour endurance run (I ran 32 miles). My motivation for running has changed a bit. I now run with my 15 year old daughter. Running has strengthened our bond.

Favorite non-running workout: T25, Shift Shop, Yoga, and Body Beast workouts.

Favorite Training Plan: Hason’s Marathon Method

Where is your favorite place to run and why?

Seneca- Cherokee Park. I like the variety of hills, trails, and paved trails. I find running Cherokee has made me a better runner.

MRTT/SRTT September BURPEE Challenge

by MRTT/SRTT Louisville, KY Chapter Leader, Allison Reid

MRTT/SRTT September Monthly Challenge - BURPEES

When you think of September, you might think of cooler weather, leaves starting to change colors or large cups of pumpkin spice lattes….well, now when you think of September you will forever think of BURPEES! You asked (I’m looking at you Jenny *wink* *wink*), and we listened. Join us this month in completing a progressive series of daily burpees to help improve your overall strength! Strengthening your muscles will help improve your running form and prevent injuries. 

If you are like me, I know what you are thinking….”BURPEES?!?!?! #$%& I can’t do burpees!!!” Well, this group excels at providing motivation, accountability and support. Do as many of the burpees as you can, track your success on the challenge page and we will celebrate your success with you. ALWAYS listen to your body. Modify the exercise, change the amount of reps or the amount of days you complete the burpees. Make the challenge work for you and your personal goals. 

For the running portion of this challenge, set a monthly mileage goal and report to us regularly on how it is going. Please track your own mileage and update miles in your posts on the challenge page. 

Happy September, everyone! We cannot wait to hear how a month of burpees impacted you!



Here is the challenge for you.  This comes straight from HeandSheEatsClean:  

This challenge was designed to be something that you do in addition to your normal workout (which is hopefully one of our workout plans!). We have 4, 6, and 12-week workout plans for all fitness levels!

VIEW OUR WORKOUT PLANS

If you are advanced and this is too easy for you, you can double or triple each day. If this is too difficult, cut the reps down and work your way up. This challenge is totally customizable based on your fitness level. You can do these all at one time or spread them out throughout the day. Your choice!

Have a great month!

Little Red Rising Takes on the Derby City Trifecta

What does it take to complete a Triathlon? Well, swimming, biking and running, for sure! But, have you ever thought about a coach to help reach your running or race related goals? Our member, Little Red Rising, took it upon herself to seek out help through a coach for triathlon training and the results will amaze you!

Momma finished the 10K strong with her little guy by her side!

"In training, having a coach tuned into the technical aspects of my endurance journey is a layer beyond the camaraderie of MRTT. I know the things I have done right and the things that could be improved upon, like when to fuel for an Olympic distance triathlon. At age 39, I dislike admitting my vulnerabilities but opening up to Jeannette as a coach, beyond being friends has been worth it." ~Little Red Rising

Read the full story over at her blog now.

Moms Run This Towns meets Orienteering Louisville

written by MRTT/SRTT Louisville, KY Chapter Leaders

On August 5th, 2017, the Moms Run This Town/She Runs This Town Louisville chapter hosted their August Family Fun Event. The MRTT/SRTT chapter hosted this event with the support of Orienteering Louisville (OLOU) at Brown Park in St. Matthews.  We had over 26 teams who ran either the short or long orienteering course in hopes of winning beautiful handmade medals crafted by the Dunlap family!

Our beautiful medals made for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams.

Some of you may wonder what is orienteering?  Great question and we wondered this as well prior to setting up the event, so we did a little digging on the Orienteering Louisville (OLOU) website. Here is what we found:

"Orienteering is a sport that involves navigating a set course 

using a specialized topographical map and a compass. It can be 

enjoyed by people of all ages as a competitive cross-country race 

or as a recreational walk in the woods."  

We found this description held true as we had a range of ages in our participants, from toddlers to 
grandparents!  Also, as moms we loved that this was an event that had our kids moving, connecting
them to the outdoors (and running), and using some great life skills (map reading, working in teams, etc).

Orienteering means running trails and sometimes crossing water to find the check points.

Results are in for the July Team Challenge!

On August 3rd, MRTT/SRTT members and their families convened at a local park for our July Team Challenge celebration!  It was great weather for a picnic (and a splash in the spray ground) with family members and friends.  Over 25 families attended our 2nd team challenge celebration and there was much to celebrate!  Combined, our teams ran 9,338 miles as a group, averaging around 77 miles per runner.  Despite the heat, we ran an average of 7 miles more per woman than our January 2017 team challenge. Way to go ladies! 

Head up. Wings out.

Head Up. Wings out.  

by: Anonymous MRTT/SRTT member

Since I was a kid, I always had the same dream.  

I bolt out the back door and sprint across the porch.  I burst through the porch screen door and hear the screen door slowly shut.  The dog door slaps rhythmically back and forth.  I continue to pick up speed across the driveway and head for the large pine tree at the corner of our front yard.  As soon, as my feet hit the blanket of pine needles beneath the tree, I am propelled in the air.  I fly, high up in the sky, with the tree far below.  Everything is left behind.  The violence, the sexual abuse, everything, left behind.  Gone.

I can't fly, but I can come damn close through running.  Due to this, running became my escape.  It also became my enemy.  I became addicted and ran obsessively.  I developed a severe eating disorder and reached 67 lbs twice.  A large chunk of my life was spent in various long term and short term hospitalizations.  I am healthier now, but still struggle with my demons on a daily basis.

This year was rough.  I am just now starting to confront my childhood.  As a reminder that I will not be defined by it, I had the Hebrew word for overcome tattooed on the inside of my left wrist, above the fading scars caused by self-harm and my Garmin watch.  A reminder that I can fly and gain distance from my past.

I am still learning how to run in a healthy fashion.  Although, sometimes it has gotten me in trouble, it has also provided me with much needed comfort in my darkest hours.  I have to remember to wield its power for positive change.

"Head up.  Wings out."

August 2017 Monthly Challenge - Back to School BINGO!

It's August, which means it is also Back To School time, so we are playing 

Back To School MRTT/SRTT Bingo 

for our August Challenge! This challenge will run from August 1-August 31.

You should aim to do each item listed on the Bingo board in a "cover all" fashion. Post your progress on your bingo card weekly, or more often if you would like! Make sure when you post each week, you try to share a fun photo(s) of your weekly activities to motivate and give everyone ideas! :)

Once you have completed ALL of the activities on your card, you need to yell BINGO in the group and your name will be put in the pot for a prize drawing at the end of the month!!!

The Worst “Trail” Run Ever

The Worst “Trail” Run Ever

by Amy Mueller, MRTT/SRTT Louisville, KY member

Weekiwachee Preserve

So, my trail marathon plan calls for 8 miles today. I scope out a few runs in Weekiwachee, Florida. We decide on Weekiwachee Preserve and make our way there.

Trail Map with "markers"

We get there and I have no idea of the mileage. I grab a map. I see markers 1 through 12. They are not mile markers. They are latitude and longitude markers. I keep the map and tell dad, "I’ll be back in about an hour and a half."

Let’s just start by saying this trail is part overgrown gravel roads, sandy paths smothered with weeds that may be snake homes, and dead trees presumably from the Florida heat. But the water view is pretty. It is 90 degrees and so humid my clothing starts to get wet as soon as I step outside the car. Dad says: “If you see an alligator, turn around”. Uh okay dad. Sure thing. NOOO Problem.

I follow the “Markers” till about 3. Then I follow the next path. It is a path about the size of a car lane and is all sand with super overgrown weeds. Also, nobody else is on it. Also, its super sketchy and the further I go, the more overgrown it gets. I follow my gut, turn around and head back. Fast. The whole time I envision an alligator chasing after me.

The trail that leads to nowhere

I reconnect with the main path and then just run and try to follow the markers, and the map, to get my “8” miles in for the day. At about mile 3.5, I get menstrual cramps in my legs. You all, I don’t get menstrual cramps in my belly, I get them in my legs. And when that happens, my legs don’t want to move. Plus its ridiculously hot and humid. Plus the trail is boring besides the nice view of the water. So, I think, “You know what, I’m just going to head back to the car, I’m over this.”

At about 5 miles, I come across this nice man “Ron” who is fishing. I ask him how to get back to the car. He’s very helpful. I say “Dad is worried about alligators or snakes getting me." Ron says, "Oh yeah, there are snakes all over the place. But if you stay on the trail you’ll be fine. And Alligators, there here too but they prob won’t get in your way. The largest I’ve seen is 7 feet and they won’t mess with you but the 10 foot ones will drag you in the water." Then he says, "You got enough water?" I say, “Yep, I think I’m good. Seems like I’m pretty close to the car.”  He says "Yeah, probably about 2.5 miles and you are there. Follow the water." I say, “I’ve been following the markers.” and I show him the map. He says, “Oh you can’t trust those, people move those all the time. Just follow the path up there to the right and stay near the water."  Okay, so that explains why I got a little lost.

July Team Challenge is ON!

You heard it right, back by popular demand--JULY is TEAM CHALLENGE month!

ALL PACES/ALL FITNESS LEVELS welcomed!

MRTT/SRTT Louisville, KY Chapter Members - Are you ready for a challenge?

This challenge runs July 1-July 30th!

For this challenge, you must RSVP by June 25th, 2017. 
Those that RSVP “Going” will have their names placed into a pot. We will randomly draw your name and place you with a team at our kick-off meeting on June 29th at Hogan's Fountain (there is a separate FB event linked below for this). You do NOT have to be present to be placed on a team.

Teams will be assigned at random. Each team will choose a “team leader” who will be responsible for cheering the team on and tracking mileage on our spreadsheet. The main goal of the challenge is simple-- get out and walk/run/hike! Activities should be intentional. The team that has the most miles WINS the challenge. We will come back together after the challenge (Location/date TBD) to award prizes for the team with most miles as well as some other FUN awards. 

Activity converstion ratios:
Run/walk/hike: 1
Elliptical:Run is 1:1
Bike or Spin:Run is 3:1
Swim:Run is 1:3
(If you run/walk/hike/elleptical for 5 miles, you count 5 miles total. If you bike or spin 15 miles, you get to count 5 miles total. If you swim 1 mile, you get to count that as 3 miles.)

Note: Running as a team is not required, but highly recommended. If you cannot run as a group, that is okay, just make sure you are tracking everyone’s miles on the spreadsheet as a team.

Don't want to participate in the team challenge? That is okay! You can still set a monthly mileage goal for yourself and we will help keep you accountable here!

“I DIDN’T SIGN UP FOR THIS!”

by MRTT member Lisa Preuett

I used to HATE running. Not one athletic bone in my body, I was always one of the last ones picked for sports teams at school. The only time I ran in school was when it was required in high school gym class. The day I had to run one mile around the track was disastrous. Thinking I was going to collapse, I eventually finished and got my passing grade. Never again, I thought.

But fast forward to early 40’s when a woman’s metabolism comes to a screeching halt and the number on the scales continues to rise. I had to get in shape. Joining a fitness club, I started working out and lifting weights. Cruising on the elliptical machine was my favorite. Then out of nowhere, I started hearing friends and family members talk about running 5K’s. Seemed like these races were popping up all around me.

Just weeks later, I heard about an upcoming 5K race in the rural county where I live. Could I do it? I was in good shape now. Maybe now I could actually run.  

Stepping onto level pavement in my neighborhood, excitement—and not dread—flowed through my veins. Starting with a slow jog, I breathed in the air with determination. My first goal was a half mile. Although slow, I found my pace—never stopping to walk. Over the next several weeks I gradually ran longer distances until I finally reached three miles. I’d found my comfortable pace, thankful my neighborhood roads were smooth. No intense hills or uneven sidewalks. Running this course repeatedly, I figured I was ready for race day.

Following directions for the race location, I parked my car in a field next to a heavily wooded area. Nervously looking for the start line, I asked someone where to go. “Oh, the cross country course starts over there and runs all through the trails.”  What did he say? Where was the paved road I’d envisioned? Runners made their way to the start line—facing the edge of the woods.  The excitement for running my first 5K turned to embarrassment. This was NOT what I signed up for! My original goal was to run the race without stopping. Now I wondered if I’d even finish. I’d come this far and couldn’t back down. My family was there to support me. I couldn’t let them down. I’ll do this and check it off my bucket list.

Just seconds into the race, I brushed past tree limbs and almost tripped over roots on the narrow trail. People passed me quickly, almost knocking me down. Looking ahead, I noticed—and felt—a steep incline. I’d never run uphill before. My slow jog fizzled out quickly.  Catching my breath, I had to walk. The path continued to twist and turn, and suddenly my feet stepped into a pile of horse manure! Why didn’t someone clean this up before the race? Stepping off the trail, I attempted to wipe my shoes off. I desperately prayed, “God, this isn’t what I signed up for; please get me through this!”

Back on the trail, I kept going. More twists, turns, uphill, downhill, tripping over roots—this was no fun. Why hadn’t I checked into this 5K more thoroughly? If I’d known this was a trail run, I never would have done it. I’d trained for a month. All that time and effort—for this?  Trudging up the final hill, I heard people cheering. The finish line must be close; I couldn’t wait to be done. My short-lived excitement for running had almost disappeared. But that’s when I heard it—the gentle voice of God whispering to my weary heart.

Lisa, this race is a lot like life. Keep on running; there’s more I want you to discover.

I finished my first 5K and it wasn’t my last. Running became a major part of my life from that day forward. With the support of a running group, I’ve run multiple 5K’s, 10K’s, half-marathons, a full marathon and (gulp!) even a Tough Mudder.

Sometimes the very things that drive fear and disappointment are the very things that bring passion and purpose. Even the things we initially say we “didn’t sign up for”.

June's BOOM Challenge

Back by popular demand…June BOOM Challenge 2017! In addition to monthly mileage tracking, this month focuses on strength training. Join us in completing a progressive series of daily exercises to help improve overall strength. Strengthening muscles during the HOT summer months will help improve your running form and prevent injuries. 

For this challenge, set a monthly mileage goal and report to us regularly on how it is going. Please track your own mileage and update miles in your posts on the challenge page. 

Daily workouts in addition to running?!?!?! “YIKES,” you might say!!!! This group excels at providing motivation, accountability and grace when our plans do not go as we intended. Do as many of the workouts as you are able, track in your posts on the challenge page and we will celebrate your success! Feel free to modify exercises, amount of reps or the amount of days you incorporate strength training into your plan. Make the Challenge work for you and your personal goals. 💪🏼

Here is the challenge calendar-feel free to print it out!

Import the calendar to your digital calendar using this link: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/smdn1b5fhvdn5am34606f1tb60%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics