Boston 2021 was the fastest marathon in her career so far
Photo by the race photographers. Jenny Hitching crossing the Boston Marathon finish line, 2021
Whether you are a runner or not, there is a magic marathon revered and appreciated by many: Boston.
With the Boston marathon taking place on April 18th, 2022, let’s hear some wise advice from Jenny Hitchings, who lives in Sacramento, CA with her husband, Andy, and their dog, Mia. Hitchings is the world marathon record holder in the 55 to 59 age group.
“And now at 58, I am still getting faster and still running PRs. My time at the Boston Marathon on October 11th, 2021 of 2:45:32 was a lifetime PR. This is where people ask, how? I wish I had an easy answer that I could deliver in a box with a bow. But I don’t.” — Jenny Hitchings in an interview for Run in Rabbit blog
A five-time Age Group (55–59) American Record holder in various race distances and an Age Group World Record holder in the marathon, Hitchings is also a running coach for individuals, youth, and middle school cross-country. Besides her exciting running and coaching career, Hitching has two grown girls, Molly and Maggie, and is a newly crowned grandma to Olivia (Molly’s baby).
Hitchings’ advice on training and running a strong Boston marathon
Doing harder workouts within her long runs with her fast runner friends and teammates from SRA Elite team has helped her be well-prepared for Boston. Some of Hitching’s favorite workouts were: long runs with fast finishes to practice picking up the pace even though legs are feeling tired, progression runs where the pace starts slower and gets faster with every mile, as well as running GMP (goal marathon pace) tempos and longer GMP mile intervals, such as 3x 2, 2 x 3, 2 x 4.
2. Running many 20-mile runs, or longer. Occasionally, Hitchings tried to run on courses that mimicked the Boston course hills by starting on a slight 3-mile downhill and returning on the same hill around mile 16 to simulate the challenging Boston course. She also advises running on rolling hills to strengthen the quadricep muscles that need to help you transition in downhill and uphill running, which can also be done on trails.
3. Do NOT go out too fast, as Boston starts with downhill running. “If starting too fast or beyond what you know is reasonable, your legs will fatigue and cramp by Newton hills and beyond. Try and run effort based on the inclines, and let it flow on the declines,” advised Hitching.
4. And last, but not least, enjoy the crowds! Smile, pump your fists, and hands in the air, as spectators will scream and cheer louder, which can carry you a long way.
Photo by the race photographers. Jenny Hitchings running with joy at Boston marathon, 2021.
Improving running and athletic longevity
“I have been running since college (for fitness) and more competitively since I was 40, so I don’t have all the wear and tear on my legs like if I had been running at a high level in high school and college,” said Hitchings. “I have a flexible schedule that allows me to run when I want. I have a coach. I train hard, and I have good genes,” she added.
Hitchings’ advice to women runners of all ages, but particularly women over 50 regarding running the best races of their lives:
The first and most important thing is to love running because it makes it easier to be consistent and do what it takes to get out the door, instead of making excuses about why you can’t run or train.
Success has nothing to do about comparing yourself to others, and everything to do with being the best you can be at any given point in your life.
As far as reducing injuries and increasing your running longevity, Hitchings can’t say that she has stayed injury-free over the years. She had an Achilles/heel surgery and a PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma injections) procedure on her glute/upper hamstring. Hitchings added that running with no pain felt enlightening! Although she admits to not being great at doing strength or cross-training — Hitchings does enjoy riding outside or on her Peloton — she regularly sees her sports chiropractor doctor and gets deep tissue massage. She also thinks that walking her dog 1.5–2 miles after runs helps her stretch and feel loose.
Hitchings pointed out that getting good or better at running (or anything) takes time: practice pacing, fueling, hydrating, running on different courses and terrain, and adding mileage. “In the end, your training doesn’t lie,” she said.
Sometimes, Hitchings watches dogs run and thinks, “they have it right. They just do it organically. Warm up with a trot, run fast and chase things to get the energy out, slow down because they’re tired, find a stick and chew on it in the shade, because, why not? Then get up and repeat. Interval training at its best without getting injured.”
Photo by the race photographers. Sacramento, CA
Although Hitchings is not running the Boston Marathon this year, she hopes to see her granddaughter Olivia at her next Boston, wearing a T-shirt that says:
“My nana is FAST as AF.”
Meanwhile, happy tapering for Boston, and don’t forget to wave at the crowds!
For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love, A Book of Poetry and Short Forms on Amazon, or buy it straight from my blog by clicking on my books link, which will take you to Amazon.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!
The lessons they have learned from the Raramuri people
From left to right: Sacramento endurance athletes Lorena Van Rein, Norma Faubert, and Martha Rodriquez Photo taken by a bystander at the finish line
“Perhaps all our troubles — all the violence, obesity, illness, depression, and greed we can’t overcome — began when we stopped living as Running People. Deny your nature, and it will erupt in some other, uglier way.” — Christopher McDougall
Meet Sacramento residents Lorena Van Rein, Norma Faubert, and Martha Rodriquez who have completed the famous Ultra Maratón Caballo Blanco on March 6th, 2022, a race that was first started by Micah True, whose nickname was El Caballo Blanco (the white horse) for runners from all over the world to run and experience.
True was fond of saying, “While they are at war, we come together to make peace here in the bottom of the canyon,” which cannot be more meaningful and powerful nowadays in the fight against the Coronavirus and the Ukrainian war. True fought against the Mexican drug cartel to maintain peace in the region.
After the book Born to Run by Christopher McDougall came out, runners from all over the world descended upon the town of Urique, Chihuaha, Mexico to experience the mystique of the Caballo Blanco ultra marathon. Norma Faubert is one of the runners who has dreamed of doing this race and running with the Tarahumaras people. An endurance athlete originally from Mexico City, Faubert is a middle school Spanish teacher and a mother of a 14-year-old son.
Norma Faubert ran the ultramarathon with joy. Photo taken by the race photographers
This year, for instance, runners ran next to over 600 Raramuri people on a hot day with temperatures in the 80s, which to Van Rein felt like 100 degrees. The Tarahumara people, or Raramuri, are indigenous people of the Americas. Raramuri means “runners on foot” or “those who run fast.”
Their strength comes from their ability to run in huaraches, their traditional form of sandals, or what US minimalist running circles call Tarahumara sandals, for 200 miles (320Km) over a period of two days through their rough canyon country for inter-village communication, transportation, and hunting.
Lessons learned from running the Ultra Maratón Caballo Blanco
“Just move your legs. Because if you don’t think you were born to run, you’re not only denying history. You’re denying who you are.” — Christopher McDougall
Van Rein, who first started running in 2013 after one of her best friends invited her to run, has completed 16 marathons, two 100-mile races, and many other races. She mainly runs to socialize with other people and to challenge herself. As the co-owner of Wild Rooster Restaurant, a family Mexican restaurant that serves delicious and fresh meals (I eat there often whenever I am in the mood for a burrito), Van Rein was excited to have completed the marathon this year after two years of the pandemic when races were put on hold.
Lorena Van Rein ran the ultramarathon with joy. Photo taken by the race photographers
“This event is a very unique race not only because you have to fly to this destination, but there is also another 12 more hours spent driving to Urique, where the event took place,” said Van Rein. “Roads are not easy to drive, but the views on the way to get there are impressive that no pictures give them justice.”
After meeting the Ramirez Family (Maria Lorena Ramirez finished second female overall in the 80Km), Van Rein knew that running the Ultra Maratón Caballo Blanco had to be on her bucket list.
Her heart was full of joy for having completed this difficult but beautiful ultramarathon because she had experienced the rugged beauty and splendor of Copper Canyon, a whopping four times larger than the Grand Canyon with a depth of over a mile. The canyon rim sits at an altitude of 8,000 ft and is full of rocky outcrops and sheer drop-offs.
Copper Canyon, Mexico Photo taken by Lorena Van Rein
Running as a way of life
It doesn’t matter whether you’re the lion or a gazelle-when the sun comes up, you’d better be running.” — Christopher McDougall
Van Rein said that running this race was a hobby for her, whereas for the Raramuri people, running and walking everywhere is their way of life. They do it naturally without thinking about it, and the distances are pretty far. For instance, kids who need to get to school from the village need to run/walk for about three hours each way, which is why not everyone can go to school. For example, in the Ramirez Family, only the two older brothers were able to go to school and because of that, they can speak Spanish. The daughters couldn’t go, as they needed to stay home and help with the daily chores.
Faubert added: “The Raramuri people live in a remote place. It’s not uncommon to just run over to see a friend … And that might be 10–20 miles away.” Imagine having to run that long to see your friends, which shows us that we have no excuses for making and maintaining those important human connections.
The Raramuri women running in the traditional sandals. Photo taken by the race photographers
Kindness and trust are given openly and freely
“The reason we race isn’t so much to beat each other, but to be with each other.” — Christopher McDougall“
People were nice, polite, humble, and so welcoming to everyone,” Van Rein remarked. They were also trustful when she asked for coffee. They told her to go ahead take the coffee and pay later.
Being surrounded by these kind people has taught Van Rein that we can learn to trust one another and offer simple gestures of kindness, such as a warm cup of coffee. Not only did Van Rein enjoy the race, but she also made many friends with whom she chats every day online.
Van Rein was also impressed how well she did drinking Pinole served at the aid stations ( a drink made from corn and the powder mixed in the water). For inspiring, homemade, and wholesome pinole cookies and oatmeal, check out some recipes here. The aid stations also served oranges, bananas, bottles of water, and tortillas with beans, which ran out by the time she got there.
The necessity of running for food
“You don’t stop running because you get old, you get old because you stop running.” — Christopher McDougall
According to Van Rein, hundreds of Raramuri people of all ages — some of them in their 70s and 80s run the 80K distance because they receive a voucher to exchange food worth $350 Pesos about $17.50 dollars. “Unlike me, they could not run only the 42Km (26.2 miles); they had to run the 50 miles to receive food, which is why everyone wants to finish the race regardless of how long it takes,” Van Rein clarified.
Faubert also felt transfixed and transformed by this race.“The Raramuri people proved that we all have reservoirs of strength and untapped potential inside us,” Faubert said.
Photo taken by the race photographers. The Raramuri women running in their traditional clothes and sandals
Although Van Rein has done many hard races, the Ultra Maratón Caballo Blanco would always be in her heart because she had a running epiphany during this event:
“While my running is simply a hobby, the Raramuri people run for food,” Van Rein said. “I totally recommend this race. You will leave part of your heart there.”
Final Takeaways
Besides being born to run, we cannot let the simple joys of movement and freedom ever escape from us. When we run with other people, we learn to forge deeper and more meaningful relationships, which I hope will transcend any unnecessary destructive acts against one another. I also pray that we will all learn to make peace in the bottom of the canyon, as Micah True said, or wherever we are in the world.
For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide and uplift you during these uncertain and crazy times, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion and Morsels of Love on Amazon, or buy it straight from my blog by clicking on my books link, which will take you to Amazon.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!
Photo taken by the race photographers – Running with joy next to the guy in red over the Tower Bridge
After the London marathon got canceled twice last year due to the pandemic, I finally had the opportunity to run my fourth world marathon in person on Oct. 3rd. Not only did I take part in the largest marathon in the world with about 60,000 in-person and virtual participants, but I also rejoiced being cheered on by the best, most supportive, and loudest spectators in the world.
As a competitive runner who strives to earn my six-star coveted medal by running all the six world marathons, getting accepted into the London marathon was a dream come true! To my surprise, the times I ran during the Chicago and New York City marathons that I completed in 2018, had earned me an invitation to participate in the AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Championships. Knowing how hard it was to get into London marathon, I jumped at the unbelievable occasion. I felt honored and extremely fortunate to get invited.
Anticipation was high. Elations and emotions. Trials and tribulations. A solo international travel to Europe during a pandemic fully vaccinated but still masked and cautious.
The start of the marathon
After a well-organized packet pick-up on Friday two days before the marathon, I rested all day on Saturday to have fresh legs on Sunday. Luckily, it was a rainy day, which made it easy to stay warm under the covers, reading The Daily Telegraph newspaper that I picked up that morning at The Waitrose neighborhood market.
The morning of the marathon, we were blessed with no rain, clouds covering the sun in gray wisps of wonder, and a staggered start of our marathon due to Covid restrictions. Like most of the runners, I took the tube following crowds of excited and masked runners. I immediately became friends with a couple from Florida. We stuck together, as we had the same corral and start time.
The first thing I saw, as we got off at Blackheath, an area of South East London, England, straddling the border of the Royal Borough of Greenwich and the London Borough of Lewisham was a church built out of solid rock greeting all of us runners. I felt piety and serenity envelop me warmer than my jacket that I was planning to dispose of on the course.
Photo taken by Carmen Micsa. All Saints’ Church in Blackheath Common, London Borough of Lewisham
To me, this was a great sign, as I always say prayers before each race and ask God to guide my steps during each mile all the way to the finish line. I also feel at peace, knowing that my dear father will watch over me from heaven, helping me when I need him most.
My new friends and I checked in, showing proof of our negative Covid tests (I had to test negative four times during my 10-day London trip), after which we lined up to the portaloos, The British word for porta-potties. The wide-screen TV showed images of regular runners like us, as well as the elite runners warming up.
Photo taken by Carmen Micsa. The wheelchair runners getting ready to start the London marathon.
We hung around for about an hour before our wave started, which gave me plenty of time to use the bathrooms, but it also made me stand instead of resting my legs.
Selfie taken by Carmen Micsa. My new runner friends and I found Robert Wang. He is gracious to keep us all informed on the World Marathon Majors Challenge.
Running the streets of London
Around 9:40 a.m. we did a short walk to our designated start line — there were multiple starting lines, but only one finish line, and off we went.
My goal was to run the first three miles at an 8-minute pace, or so, which due to the many runners on the course worked. We ran through Charlton and Woolwich for those miles and the crowds were already cheering on us. After mile three, I tried to pick up the pace, but by the time we merged with the other runners, there was barely any room to run around people. I decided not to weave in and to wait a little more till the 10K point.
Photo taken by the race photographers. Running through Cutty Sark by this ship
I remember thinking during the marathon how strange it was that we were running by a ship and that I wanted to find out more about this since I love to research and learn, or what my kids call me “being curious Mom who strikes again.” From what I read, Cutty Sark was a British clipper ship, one of the last and fastest tea clippers to be built that now sits on the dry dock in Greenwich for public display. What a treat to run through history and be surrounded by indelible sights and architecture!
At this point, I started to run at a 9-minute pace and relaxed into it, realizing how blessed I was to be there — running through historical neighborhoods and relishing the sights and sounds of London that had already stolen my heart from the first day I lay sight on it.
The second half of the marathon
Before I knew it, I was crossing over the River Thames and running across Tower Bridge. This was already about the half marathon point. I was mesmerized by the energy of the runners around me, and especially the spectators who were treating us like superstars. The only world marathon that comes close to London in terms of spectators’ density and support is New York City marathon.
Photo taken by the race photographers. At this point, I felt like crying with joy and gratitude for running, for being alive, and moving.
Photo taken by the race photographers. I am smiling and running sandwiched between runners. The spectators were three rows deep.
I could not help smiling and taking in the sights and the spectators. The volume was perfect. I felt exhilaration at every step and turn. My body did not want to move at the planned 7:50 pace, but I felt amazing and did not want to break this running spell.
Everything was magical and magnificent. My heart glowed with gratitude.
Miles 20 to the finish line
For some reason, I felt that I was covering London so quickly. I wasn’t even looking for mile markers, or for the dreaded 20-mile wall. As I ran along Tower Hill and Victoria Embarkment Parliament Square, I continued to be amazed by the crowds who had huge balloons arrangements representing various charities, such as ovarian cancer, Parkinsons’ disease, and so on.
I also started to take more Buxton natural mineral water bottles offered to us on the course. As London is such an environmentally friendly city even the water bottles are made from 100 percent recycled material and are 100 percent recyclable.
Photo taken by Carmen Micsa
I also started to thank the Londoners for their incredible support by shouting: “I love you, London.”
The crowds went wild for me, which made me float through the streets of London elated and energized.
I kept running relaxed, keeping a steady 9-minute pace, for I realized that I would finish my fourth world marathon in under 4 hours.
As I came around the final corner in front of Buckingham palace, I picked up my pace and ran in the 8s. I kept raising my index finger to declare my love to the spectators that kept screaming: “way to go!”
They were jazzed up for me, and I kept on running strong all the way past the finish line.
Photo taken by the race photographers. Electrifying finish and backdrop. I was all pumped up, as you can tell!
Photo taken by the race photographers. Crying with joy past the finish line
The gentleman in blue next to me was so nice. He asked me:
“Why are you crying? You finished so strong!”
I’m crying with joy,” I replied. “I cry at the end of each marathon,” I continued.
Crying is so cathartic at the end of a marathon, and running all the 26.2 miles cleanses my soul and heart. The tears just trickled down my cheeks and I let them roll, as I crossed the finish line of the London marathon and started to stroll to the bag check area.
My awesome friend and Arete teammate Katie Koning ran into each other on the course and at the finish line.
We both have competed in the Wanda World Age Championships, so we got two shiny medals to display. We also finished super close to each other and shared impressions of our races while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the finish line — being surrounded by London’s old, beautiful, and well-kept buildings.
One of the big highlights of the London marathon: having the honor to see Shalane Flanagan blaze off on the other side of the road.
And were there any moments of doubts and physical challenge?
Yes! The last 10 miles of the marathon got pretty warm (I ended up drinking close to two liters of water) and blood came through my right shoe, as my toes bled towards the end squished by the Nike Vaporfly shoes, which I will not wear again in marathons, but these small challenges never stopped my eternal smiles through all the London miles.
Wishing you all to run the London marathon with joy, gratitude, and no bloody toes unless you’re a savage ninja like me, my nickname in the Sacramento running community and my Arete women only running club!
For more inspiration on how to let “AIR,” which stands for adaptation, inspiration, and resilience guide and uplift you during these uncertain and crazy times, please consider buying my print edition or e-book The PR- The Poetics of Running, A Book of Poetry in Motion on Amazon, or buy it straight from my blog by clicking on my books link, which will take you to Amazon. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book is going to Girls on the Run Sacramento chapter organization.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Also mention this blog and receive a great offer whether buying (credit for closing costs) or selling (commission discount). Running for real estate with joy!
“Every successful individual knows that his or her achievement depends on a community of persons working together.” Paul Ryan
This quote strongly resonates with my progress as a runner and athlete due to the fact that I joined various teams and running clubs right after becoming a runner. I felt that running with friends gave me more strength, endurance, tenacity, better performance, and it was simply more fun that running alone.
I run with many friends and running groups, but Andrea and I are best running buddies and have logged thousands of miles together. We are fortunate to live close to each other and enjoy each other’s company.
SHORT HISTORY OF MY RUNNING JOURNEY
1. My greatest appreciation as a runner goes to Fleet Feet Sacramento training groups, as they helped me so much as a new runner. I could hardly wait to go to their Sunday long runs in preparation for California International marathon, when I started running in 2015.
2. After training for my first marathon, I got into trail running by joining Folsom Trail Running group and Trail Mix on Facebook. That was amazing, as trail runners are the friendliest people and so supportive.
3. In the summer of 2016, I joined Fleet Feet Fit program, where I met more wonderful runners and I did more track workouts, which improved my speed. After one season, I had enough fast races and qualified for the Fleet Feet Sacramento racing team. I have raced for them for the last two years and had great success and performances.
4. While on the team, I hired my own coach Robert Ressl-Moyer, who helped me PR in two half marathons, two marathons, and one ultra marathon. I also continued to run with Trail Running Adventures, Trail Mix, and Folsom Trail Runners, as well as the Fleet Feet Roseville racing team, as I enjoyed meeting new runners and running in various locations.
4. In 2019, I’ll be joining Arete team, as I feel they are an amazing supportive group of women (it is a women only team) and their training will challenge me more as a runner and help me grow. I am also training with SRA elite Jenny Hitchings (for more info, read the blog I wrote a few months ago on her huge accomplishments), amazing runner, coach, mother of two, who holds four age group National records in the 5K, 10K, 10 mile, and half marathon distance, and who checks in on me to make sure I am not doing too much, as I used to overtrain and race too much. Very excited about working with Jenny and looking forward to hitting some new PRs when the timing will be right.
OVERVIEW OF RUNNING CLUBS AND RACING TEAMS IN THE SACRAMENTO REGION
With 2019 around the corner, I wanted to give the running community an overview of the majority of our running clubs and teams. I was not able to reach everyone, or get info from all existing groups, but I have done this analysis to help you decide where you belong next year, as running with others is more fun and will likely get you stronger and faster.
1. ARETE
E-mail interview with Tamara Torlakson, who is Sacramento’s team leader of Arete.
– Arete was started in Santa Cruz by two best friends who wanted more from running teams!
– Arete is coached by Mary Wright, sub 3 hour marathoner and Mom of three! She posts awesome workouts weekly and gives great training advice. But if you have your own coach or like to follow your own plan, that is totally fine! We welcome all.
Super Sunday race. Arete team is cohesive and extremely supportive.
HOW TO JOIN THE CLUB
New members can join starting on January 1st through the website, www.runarete.com. We will have a formal 2019 season launch party on Saturday February 2nd at 2pm at one of our teammates homes. This is a chance to pick up new Rabbit uniform tops, meet teammates, Arete coach and co-founder Mary, and get any last minute questions answered! You can also sign up there, but we encourage you to sign up in advance if you can!
WHAT MAKES ARETE UNIQUE IN COMPARISON WITH THE OTHER CLUBS OUT THERE
Arete is the only all women’s running club in the Sacramento region. While we love running with men and they often join us for runs – we are open to all, we feel that having an all women’s team offers a safe space for open dialogue and a very supportive and positive space.
WHAT RUNNING MEANS TO YOU OR THE ARETE TEAM
Leading the Sacramento chapter of Arete has been such a joy! I love all the women that have joined us who have never been on a team before. Seeing them form friendships, find running partners, and improve their running is really fulfilling to see!
Info about Arete
This all women’s intermediate and advanced running team is fast with a side of fun. We are an environment that welcomes authenticity, grit, sweat, and fun. We believe that when women come together to support each other, they will get the most out of their running and their lives. We started Arete because we believe that running strong and joyfully is one of the best parts of life, and we know that women who share these values and goals exist in every city town across the country.
If you are wondering if it’s a good fit, we recommend you can run 6 miles without stopping– not to exclude anyone but to foster a space where no one is left behind and everyone feels encouraged. We also encourage you to start your own chapter or join our Remote team if an Arete team doesn’t already exist near you. (TT adding: In addition to the Sacramento chapter, there are chapters in Santa Cruz (where Arete started), Oakland, San Francisco Peninsula, Colorado Springs, and a Remote team – you can live anywhere – there are small groups in Chico, Santa Barbara, and Bend, Oregon.)
We understand that our lives are busy and your schedule may not always allow you to make every workout.
We look forward to gathering Arete groups from all over to race together, explore new trails, and meet people you may not have normally crossed paths with.
We all have a passion for this movement, for self-improvement, for being a part of something bigger than ourselves. There is something very special about a team.
2. TRAIL MIX
E-mail interview with Brad De Luchi, a great group leader who even creates training schedules for Salmon Falls 50K and AR 50 mile races.
Trail Mix was born out of one person’s desire to keep in touch with people and to keep running in between Fleet Feet Sacramento trail training sessions. It is not a racing team or running club; it has always been a loose collective of people who want to run together. It is a secret group on Facebook, meaning that you can’t look for it. You join by having an existing member add you. There is no expectation or requirement that members volunteer although it is encouraged and Trail Mix does host aid stations at a few races, most notably the Horseshoe Bar aid station at AR50/25.
What makes the group unique is that there is a penalty for falling while on a run. The original penalty, back when the group was small, was that you bought pancakes for those running with you. As the membership increased and the number of people at a run bigger the penalty switched to donuts. The fall penalty is taken very seriously and there are rules around what constitutes a fall and situations where fall rules are suspended. The rules have been amended over the years as new scenarios are discovered.
The photo I am attaching is not from a race but from one the best days out on the trail. We crossed a raging Hastings Creek near Cronan Ranch and in true Trail Mix fashion, we all worked together to make sure everybody got across safely. There is now a bridge over that creek so that day can never be repeated.
Trail Mix adventure run crossing the swollen, raging river after the rain. I skipped that run, as I was too chicken to go due to the wet conditions.
Running with Trail Mix has always meant friendship, support, connection.
3. TRAIL RUNNING ADVENTURES
E-mail interview with Carina Kool and Hassan Aboukhadijeh, group leaders.
Trail Running Adventures is a group of people who love to have fun and motivate each other as we all embark on our own unique running journey. Our motto is simple, “no runner left behind”.
The founders of Trail Running Adventures and one of the members. This year they also created their team hats, visors, and T-shirts. Looking great!
If you want to join the group, it’s easy! We have runners of all ages and paces so you’ll be sure to always have a few people to run with.
As part of this group, we’ll introduce you to all sorts of incredible trails/races that you’ve likely never even heard about. In addition, the social component of our group is very important to us and thus we regularly host potlucks, movie nights, and even coordinate our travels together.
Oh, and we love taking pictures, so smile!
Happy runners!
Volunteering:
We love giving back to the running community and volunteering. We love encouraging & supporting other runners. By being a part of our group, you aren’t required to volunteer though, but if you can, that’s great.
E-mail interview with Robert Ressl-Moyer, coach, ultra runner, and founder of the group.
Team ReMo in action with amazing runners. I love being part of this awesome group led by a terrific coach and wonderful human being Robert Ressl-Moyer.
Behind Team ReMo is Remo Fitness founded by Robert Ressl-Moyer in 2018. He offers personal training, group classes in partnership with Dai Endurance and personalized run coaching. His services are open to everyone regardless your club affiliation.
How to join?
You can started with us through personalized run coaching, personal training, or small group training. Once started you are part of the ReMo family. www.remofitness.com
What makes ReMO unique?
ReMo is open to everyone. I am working with runners from run/walkers, injured runners fighting their way back, to runners dreaming of an Olympic qualifier. There are no prerequisites to join ReMo. You bring the passion and I got your back while pursuing your wildest dreams.
What does running mean to ReMo?
We face our fears, build our strengths and find joy in challenging who we are.
5. FLEET FEET ROSEVILLE/FOLSOM
E-mail interview with Rob Schmidt, passionate runner, assistant coach, and supportive friend and wonderful human being.
Rob said: “Yeah, we have a pretty cool team. Jocelyn, my daughter, is enhancing it this year by including four structured (approx 1/2 marathon) training programs that are included: two trail races and two road. It addition, we’ll have team events that support the local community, such as Folsom Turkey Trot, Folsom Firecracker, and other East Sac area races. Basically those are races that we’d like team members to participate in, but that is totally optional.”
What’s unique about the group?
The neon pink and green jerseys that their members wear and make them stand out at a race.
The team accepts and has runners of all levels. Their group isn’t about being the fastest; they rather focus on team support and recognition for those who like to run and participate in group activities be that local or across the country. The group also celebrates AG winners along with those who simply PR in any given race.
The team’s end of the year celebration party is about all the runners in the team, as FF Roseville/Folsom has male and female “Athlete of the Year” Awards, race AG wins, and participation/volunteering at team events. They also have Boston Qualifier Award, Rookie of the Year, and Pink and Green contribution awards. Some of the prizes were embroidered backpacks given to runners who participated in six of the eight selected team races, as well as plaques.
Volunteering
Fleet Feet Roseville/Sacramento asks for volunteers at team sponsored events, tent monitor, aid stations, and other duties, but it is requested and not demanded.
What does running mean to Rob Schmidt?
“I believe that running has helped build new friendships, enhanced my health, and provided a venue of positive support and encouragement. Running with a team that embraces those values makes exercising and accomplishing goals a lot of fun. I run everything from road 5ks to ultra trail 50ks, and everything in between. I enjoy the side benefit of running outdoors in this wonderful environment we are lucky to live within. NorCal has a lot to offer and running allows me to experience it at a higher level.”
INFORMATION NIGHT: Join them on Thursday, January 3rd at Fleet Feet Folsom at 6:00pm for our kick-off meeting and first workout of the year!
What is the Racing Team all about?
Our Racing Team is driven by passionate coaches who lead weekly runs, and experienced mentors to help facilitate workouts. Through our Fleet Feet Racing Team, our coaches will facilitate year-round runs for participants to meet up, gather, and run together.
Team Details
Year-round program
Training plans for goals races
4 goal races strategically placed quarterly:
Lost Trail Half Marathon, Granite Bay, CA (Trail)
Parkway Half Marathon, Carmichael, CA (Road)
TBD
TBD
Two coached workouts:
Thursday @ 6pm
Saturday @ 8am
Meetup locations will primarily be in Folsom with occasional workouts closer to our Roseville location
Facebook private group access
Monthly emails with upcoming training schedule and updates
Printable event calendar featuring Fleet Feet Events and training
Team challenges and social events year-round
All racing distances are welcome!
Program fee: $150
6. FLEET FEET RACING SACRAMENTO
Having been a member of this group for two years, I will provide the information.
Info about Fleet Feet Racing Sacramento
As opposed to Fleet Feet Roseville/Folsom, runners who want to join have to meet the qualification standards to be accepted. To find out all the details, go to the team’s website http://www.fleetfeetracingsacramento.com/.
Having been part of Fleet Feet Racing, I grew as an athlete and I enjoyed giving back to the community, as well as making wonderful friends for life. However, unlike all the other teams in Sacramento, Fleet Feet Racing Sacramento requires their team members to volunteer at least three times a year, which is not hard to do, but for those runners who barely find time to run, they need to take into considerations the following commitment as presented on the website:
Commit to be active in Fleet Feet Racing practices, racing events, and social events. Membership does not preclude individuality. We recognize that each member has a specific set of running goals that may direct him or her to different races. However, visibility in Sacramento-area races with a focus on Buzz Oates RunSac Race Series events and attendance at team practices are an important part of membership.
Minimum number of races per year: 6
Support Fleet Feet Events Management events through volunteering a minimum of 3 times per year.
What’s Unique about Fleet Feet Racing Sacramento?
The competitive spirit, the drive to accomplish more as an athlete and human being, as well as good team support and strong runners who will inspire you to become the best version of yourself.
The Power of FOO at the Super Sunday race, where the energy and the support were amazing.
2. The power of orange, or FOO. New Balance has been a generous and wonderful sponsor to our team. Runners receive discounts on the New Balance shoes and merchandise.
3. Great end of the year party at a nice restaurant, celebrating the runners who have volunteered the most, but we did not have awards for the top athletes like Fleet Feet Roseville/Folsom. I think that would be great to have those awards added in the future to recognize our outstanding runners.
7. THE RIVER CITY REBELS, OR SIMPLY THE REBELS
E-mail interview with Andy Harris, founder of the group and with Bobby Carpenter, a passionate runner and the owner of Hot Yoga at Sunrise, during a trail run together on the bluffs by Hazel.
Info about The Rebels and How to Join
For info on this awesome group of runners who are one of our region’s best cross country male team, please visit their website at https://rivercityrebelsrunning.com/.
The River City Rebels are a Sacramento-based club formed in 1994 by a handful of local runners who liked training and racing together. The name “Rebels” fits both the club’s founding spirit and it’s ongoing philosophy of training hard, racing often, and always having a good time.
Info from their website: “We are the LEAST EXPENSIVE running club in Sacramento that has the most FUN! ONLY $25.00 to join and $40 for a family membership!
Your River City Rebels membership automatically enters you in the RunSac competitive division for 2019. Entering the RunSac series on your own would cost you $35, so membership is a real bargain!
You can also to fill out and mail the membership form with your dues by downloading it HERE. If you choose this option, please mail the form to: River City Rebels, P.O.Box 189667, Sacramento, CA 95818.
The Rebels after another successful cross country race. Lots of fun, great support , and camaraderie.
8. Buffalo Chips
Info about Buffalo Chips and how to join
I was not able to get an e-mail interview, but as most of you know, and according to their great website, the Buffalo Chips, are Sacramento’s oldest running club. They are a diverse group that includes competitive and casual runners, short-distance, marathon and ultra-marathon runners.
As George Parrott pointed out, the Buffalo Chips also supports a strong youth program with a separate youth coach and training series. The Tuesday night workouts for the Chips started in 1980 ONLY for women. The Chips was and still is strongly supportive of women’s fitness and excellence in sport with women’s marathon teams that have WON the team title at Boston 3X in the open and 2X in the master’s division and the National Championship at the marathon once. In the 1990’s Runner’s World named the Chips “the best running club in the United States.”
To find out more about the club, click here. Questions about Buffalo Chips Membership? Please send an email to membership@buffalochips.com. Click here to join or renew your membership. Make sure you are current to continue to receive all the benefits of membership. Don’t forget to renew your PAUSATF membership as well, at http://www.pausatf.org
Cross country race
“The members of the Buffalo Chips Running Club consider ourselves active participants in the local running community and the overall Sacramento metropolitan area through our contributions of energy and resources to promote a healthy lifestyle and positive changes in the lives of its vibrant population. Each year, we dedicate a portion of the proceeds collected from our membership dues, race revenue, and outside donations to promote activities and organizations that contribute to the well-being of our neighbors.”
Indeed, I have many friends belonging to this wonderful group of runners, and I can say that I am impressed by their friendliness, kindness, great attitude towards life and running, and their commitment to helping our community. Their 10-mile Buffalo Stampede yearly summer race is one of the best in our region.
9. Run4EVER
In 2015 after having completed CIM, my first marathon, I set up Run4Ever group as a way for us to keep in touch with each other after having met through the amazing Fleet Feet CIM training group. Please feel free to join it on FB and enjoy weekly inspiring posts about running, life, nutrition, and being a ninja- ha!ha!
You also can see at least two runs posted every week, especially trail running. As the name of the group says, I wish everyone to run 4 ever with joy.
Elisia de Bord was my first friend I started running with in the CIM training group. The funny thing is that we reconnected through running after we had gone through Graduate school together taking our Masters degrees in English at Sacramento State University. So grateful for the friendship.
Holly Macriss has also been one of my very first and dearest friends I started running with. Our first run together was a half marathon on the bike trail on a Wednesday, as I sometimes could not make the long weekend runs.
10. Other FB running groups
If you are a trail runner, you sure are covered.
Here are a few more running groups that you can easily find on Facebook and join: Folsom Trail Runners, Auburn Ultrarunners, Norcal Runagades, Rogue Runners, Ultra Training, Trail Whisperers, Auburn Area, Sierra Foothills Trail Runners, Canyons 100K , and Moms Run this Town, which has many chapters all around Sacramento and is focused on both road and trail running.
11. SRA Elite – Sacramento Running Association, which will be a separate blog.
How to join: only open to elite runners. Outstanding organization and Sacramento’s premier racing team!
After this thorough analysis of teams and clubs, if you are still not sure whether you wish to join a team, here are five reasons why you should choose a team/club in 2019:
The most compelling one is the camaraderie you will develop with the runners in your team, which gets you through fun and tough times so much easier.
Doing speed workouts and long runs together with your teammates is huge, especially when running a 20-miler and you feel like throwing in the towel and questioning your own sanity. Instead, running with others will confirm your craziness and even make it cool!
Giving it your best and running with passion and dedication in racing events while wearing your team’s apparel.
Having a coach, or a team leader you can check with regarding your progress, your injuries, or anything else that you wish to ask.
Staying motivated, inspired, and challenged for being part of a team that believes in you and supports your goals and dreams.
This blog does not contain all the clubs and racing teams in Sacramento, but the author Carmen Micsa has tried to give a detailed picture of the majority of teams and clubs out there.
Questions on joining any of these groups, organizations, teams? Please comment on the blog.
“You are as steady as a rock,” said my new friend Roz, who ran next to me around mile 12 and who told me she was originally from Vancouver, Canada, but she lives in Southern California now.
Preparation for My Fifth Marathon
Although running helps me live in the NOW and stay grounded, the moment I accomplish a big goal, I am already thinking of the next PR and I jump into action to make that happen. Last year after running my fourth marathon The California International Marathon and qualifying for Boston with a 3:40:41 time, I immediately set my sights on a faster time and goal. I told my awesome coach Robert Ressl-Moyer that I wanted to run Mountains 2 Beach Marathon in 3:30 minutes, even though I was planning on running 50K races and my first 50-mile race in April before this marathon.
“Carmen, I will be honest with you and let you know that it will not be an easy task to accomplish after doing ultramarathons, but if someone can pull it off, that’s you,” he told me. “Besides after running a 50-mile race, a marathon will seem short and if you stay uninjured, you will build some great cardio.”
The winter running schedule was packed with long runs, a marathon training run on trails, and two back to back 50K races. To my great surprise and delight, I finished third female overall in my second ultramarathon race The Chanoako 50K, put together by Total Body Fitness, which meant that I was ready to run my 50-mile race that I was training for by running back to back 50K races.
On the podium! A million thanks to my coach Robert Ressl-Moyer who prepares me for all my races and who waited for me two hours at the finish line. So lucky to have him as my coach and my motto in races is “Make Robert proud.”
My 50K races went smoothly, but my 50-mile endurance race took me 12 hours to complete running in heavy rain and mud. Yet, I persevered and recovered quickly, even though my left calf muscle was tight on me and hurt after tough workouts. I rolled, stretched, but the sports massage helped me the most to continue running and complete tough workouts and GMP (gross marathon pace) miles. A million thank you to Natasha and Terasita with Active BodyWorks who worked on my muscles and made them happy the day of the marathon.
10 Key workouts, habits, and routines that helped me achieve a PR of 10 minutes at Mountains 2 Beach Marathon with my official finish time of 3:30:59 and a pace of 8:04 overall:
Weekly 5:20 a.m. track workouts with ReMo Fitness led by our coach Robert Ressl-Moyer. My favorite workouts are ladders, such as 800, 400, 200, and my least favorite one is the Bart Yasso 800s. I did not make the goal when running them, but I knew I could sustain a pace of 7:50 to 8 minute during the marathon, so I did not worry.
Last track workout the week of the marathon went extremely well for me with my body starting to feel great. Although I was supposed to run mile repeats at 7:50 pace, I ran one mile repeat at 7:13 pace and felt like walking on clouds. It was smooth, effortless, and as coach Robert pointed out, my form and forward lean were great. That Tuesday, I felt that my goal of finishing the marathon in 3:30 was definitely achievable. I was starting to get excited!
Long progressive runs ranging from 10 to 14 miles. These were the absolute key workouts that helped me run Mountains 2 Beach as steady as a rock, as my new friend Roz remarked during the marathon. My focus when doing these workouts was to keep the miles seconds away so that I didn’t end up running too fast at the end, as my body was pretty tired from running six days a week, but resolute to achieve that PR.
I did not feel like doing a progressive run on my own that Thursday, but my friend Andrea Brizendine encouraged me to get it done. I also stayed focused on having super even splits so that I didn’t have to run too fast at the end; it worked out.
3. Weekly strength training prepared for me by my coach and geared to make my gluteus stronger. He even designed workout A and B when I had to do them twice a week, but being so tired, I ended up doing about 10 minutes of Romanian deadlifts, kettlebell swings, planks, and so on. I also received a free hour coaching at CalFit and learned all about the machines that would work my gluteus muscles and make them happy. Running and strength training need to be balanced carefully, as a few of my friends and myself got injured from running too much and doing too much strength training. For this marathon, I was barely able to do my strength training once a week, twice with the shorter versions, but my body stayed strong all the way to the finish line. I also passed a lot of runners from mile 20 to the finish.
Learning how to use the machines at California Family Fitness. This one was my favorite.
My coach Robert teaches this strength training for runners class at the Dai Endurance studio in Sacramento, so I took the class and loved it.
4. Stretching, foam rolling, and doing Pilates class weekly were instrumental to my bouncing back quickly from one day to another to sustain 50 to 65-mile weeks. The gentle Pilates class was instrumental in allowing my body to stretch and be ready for more running. Kate Muir, our fun instructor, loved picking on me when she heard me moan and groan during different stretches. She said: “There is our runner friend Carmen. She can run 50 miles, but is so tight on this one.” Kate has been a passionate runner as well and was excited to hear about my running journey. Any time she drove towards the club and saw me run down the street, she would honk and waive at me.
I do Pilates once a week, as I love the combination of core exercises, stretches, and breathing techniques. I like it better than Yoga and highly recommend it. The Gentle Pilates class is easier on the body and includes more stretches, which made me feel like brand new after the class.
5. Doing two of my long runs, a 20 and 22-mile run, on a downhill course running from Auburn to Loomis that replicates Mountains 2 Beach marathon closely. These runs got my quads strong and marathon ready. Although my 22-mile run went very well, as I hit my GMP for seven miles and finished strong, my 20-mile run two weeks before the marathon that was supposed to be 23 miles did not feel good, as my calf muscle hurt and was tight. With the shorter time to prepare for my marathon after my 50-mile race, I only did a half marathon at 7:50 pace race, where I placed third in my AG, one 18-miler, one 20-miler, and one 22-miler. I loved that I did not have to do too many long runs. I feel that a combo of 16, 18, 20, 22-mile runs suit me and prepare me well for the marathon. Although I bounce back quickly after running a 20-miler (I take a day off to swim, stretch, use the foam roll, and do Pilates), I feel that less is more when it comes to the long runs, especially because I do another mid-week medium run of 12 to 14 miles. I have done five 20-mile runs before to prepare for marathons and did not feel that they helped me as much towards the end of the race. The progressive runs and practicing my half marathon pace that made my marathon pace feel easy were quintessential to my ability to maintain a strong pace at the end of the marathon and pass a lot of runners.
My failed 20-mile run from Auburn to Loomis on the MandaRun course, where I had set my PR the previous year running the half marathon in 1:41:21, which also qualified me to run New York City marathon this year. That day my left calf muscle and my gluteus were quite angry at me, so I had to stop about eight times and only hit one mile at GMP pace. Yet, I stayed positive and did not worry about this long run on tired legs. I knew that on race day, with fresh legs, I would rise and shine ready to run from Ojai to Ventura.
6. Swimming, using the spa and sauna as recovery and conditioning tools. My body loves the water and I feel like a mermaid in the swimming pool, regenerating my tired body and preparing it for more mileage.
Water is my therapy and favorite recovery.
7. Eating and hydrating well. There are no shortcuts to these two. Also as a vegan runner, I made sure to up the intake of protein on my heavy days of running, by eating beans, tofu, and drinking 20-gram organic protein shakes.
Carbs are great for runners and any athletes! My vegan pizza made with Trader Joe’s crust. Super easy to top with yummy veggies.
8. Sleeping 6 to 8 hours a night. Sleeping regenerates our bodies overnight and allows us to train harder. We should all make it a priority. Even when I had to wake up early for our Tuesday morning track workout, I made sure I took a 30 to 40-minute nap in the afternoon, especially if I didn’t have appointments with my clients.
9. Being in tune with my body and shortening workouts if my calf muscle was tight. For instance, my last two long runs got shorter, as I had to run 20 miles instead of 23 with about eight stops during my long run and only one mile at GMP. The last 14-mile long run was reduced to 12, although I felt much better on this run, especially because I ran with my friend Tracy who kept me good company. Most runners would have agonized about a failed long run with only 1-mile at GMP, but I knew in my heart how much better I performed in races as opposed to training runs, especially solo runs, so I continued to believe in my goal and ability to keep my 8 minute pace, or lower for the entire marathon.
10. And last, but not least, being on the Fleet Feet Sacramento Racing team. My coaches and teammates inspire me to reach higher and higher. We are all proud to represent Fleet Feet in races, as well as give back to the community by volunteering.
The three musketeers as we call ourselves. Adam, Andrea, and I after running Urban Cow half marathon.
Super Sunday 10K race with my Fleet Feet racing team mates- 2018.
As I look back to my training for my Mountains 2 Beach marathon, I can say that it was quite a ride that started in December of last year after I ran California International Marathon and continued with many long trail runs in the weekend, two 50K races, my first 50-mile race that took me 12 hours to complete because of the poor weather conditions, and my returning to speed and road running at the beginning of April three days after completing my grueling 50-mile race. Will I recommend this to anyone? Heck no! As a matter of fact, don’t try this at home- ha!ha! However, if you have the chance to run a 50K race (31.2 miles) two to three months before a marathon and you are comfortable running on trails, I highly recommend it.
7 Reasons to run a 50K race as one of your long runs for your marathon:
It builds great cardio.
It builds tremendous confidence to run a marathon and be strong at the end.
Trail running works different muscles in your body and makes you stronger.
Although you will run slower on trails, all the hills and challenging terrain will make you stronger and faster on the road, especially if you keep doing your speed workout at least once a week during the trail running season, which for me it is in the winter.
Trail running is so beautiful and allows your mind, body, and soul to recharge from all the pounding on the road.
Meeting new friends and having company for the long runs, as I belong to a few trail running groups, such as Trail Mix, Trail Running Adventures.
Recovery after a 50K race or long run is the same as running a 20-miler just one day, as the soft trails are gentler on your body.
I hope you can take away at least one tip that you can implement into your running and that you will always reach for more while appreciating the journey to the runner you have become today. Follow your heart and be open to the miracles and meaningful coincidences that running brings into our daily lives. One step at a time! One breath at time! We all have different journeys, but they do share one thing in common: running miles with big smiles!
Running strong towards the finish of M2B marathon with a big smile on my face. Running with joy!
Please comment back what other tips you have for running faster and steadier marathons, as well as which of the tips you will incorporate in your own training for a chance of winning a $10 Starbucks gift card. Everyone who comments on this blog will be entered into the drawing. Winners will be announced on June 15th! The clock is ticking!
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!
“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” Confucius
Running a 50K trail race feels exactly like carrying away small stones to chip away at the distance and finish strong. Unlike running marathons, in ultra running, the focus is less on getting to various milestones, and more on running from one aid station to another. Runner 208 was sure ready to enjoy the cold, crisp, and sunny winter morning after having trained with my Fleet Feet Sacramento racing team and my awesome coach Robert Ressl-Moyer, winner of many 50K races and such a kind and generous soul.
The day before the race I was calm and composed as I usually am before races, but I was also emotional thinking of my dear father who passed away from diabetes at the young age of 53. I dedicated the race to him and loved that all the proceeds from the race go towards finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. The race already held a special place in my heart. Vamos!
The Start Line
Long distance races require preparation and support from our families and friends. As always, my sweet husband drove me to the start line. On our way to Magnolia Ranch, Coloma, CA, where Salmon Falls race starts, the temperature kept dropping all the way to 25 degrees. My husband kept joking with me and said: “It’s freezing out there and you will run 31 miles in the cold. Did I tell you you’re crazy?”
“Yes, darling. You already know this. I am much happier to run in the cold than when it is hot,” I replied.
After my husband dropped me off, I immediately scanned the shivering runners trying to find my friends. The ground was frozen, the grass covered in frost, the sky clear, and most runners bundled up in coats, hats, and gloves at the start line. I knew that I would get warm quickly, but I also chose to wear cheap gloves that I was planning to dispose off later.
My friend Rob Schmidt and I ran together in preparation for Salmon Falls. Terri, his sweet wife, was the first one to give me a hug at the start line and to wish me good luck. His daughter Jocelyn in the picture also raced and placed. It takes a village to raise a runner!
I also got to chat with my Fleet Feet racing team mates Josh Fernandez, who is wicked fast , and Melissa Tafoya, who has just joined our team and who is also a boxer. I felt great to be in such wonderful company and promised myself to relish every moment of my second 50K race and to become one with nature, breathing in joy, exhaling any stress, doubts, or fears.
At the start line feeling excited, hopeful, and a little bit emotional thinking of my dear father. My mantra for this race: “Run for Daddy,” or short “for Daddy.”
The First 12 miles
I started strong, but not pushing it too hard knowing that I had 31 miles ahead. The crisp winter air permeated my joyous being and gave me energy. The gloves kept my hands warm. I focused on my breathing, footing, stride, and the terrain, which on this course it is a constant up and down, making it hard to get into a rhythm. We also had a creek crossing. I got my right foot wet, while I climbed on the rocks, but I knew that I would dry quickly.
During my first miles, I noticed the frost and the frozen ground that gave me a nice bounce, almost like doing a quick jump on a trampoline. I started writing in my head, too, as I normally do when I run.
However, in descending to Cronan Ranch, where the first aid station was, I was able to get moving and it felt great. I was knew there were a total of seven aid stations, so from now on, it was about reaching and counting the aid stations, where I would refuel with bananas, grapes, potato chips, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and water.
Photo credit to Jaclyn Schmidt. Descending into Cronan Ranch and hitting the first aid station. My friend Terri cheered loudly for me. I grabbed some grapes and half a banana, heading out for some steep hills that I had to power hike.
After the first aid station, I started my climbing and focused on taking small steps. I also remembered what my awesome coach Robert Ressl-Moyer told me on the phone the previous day. He always calls me before races to discuss strategy and to push me towards greatness. He said: “You’re great with hills, so don’t sell yourself short by power hiking too much. Try to run portions of big hills and only power hike a little to conserve energy.” I applied his advice and it felt great to pass runners on the hills, while breathing steadily.
I soon arrived at the second aid station, where the signs made me smile. One of the signs said: “You’re not crazy, you’re ultra special.” Indeed, people think running these long distances is crazy, but being out there for hours feels like being rinsed inside and out in nature’s washing machine. It is about being immersed into something grander than ourselves, which turns us into more humble and grounded human beings. And, yes, I will admit that there is a little bit of craziness required for this equation of happiness to work.
Around mile 12, my team mate Melissa and my trail friend Tracy caught up with me. Melissa and I started running together and kept each other company, which was the best part of the race. I knew my father was watching over me, sending me a team mate, which is why I never despaired at the distance.
Melissa and I descending on Red Dragon trail. We watched our steps and cheered as we ran, enjoying the roller coaster sensations. Our beings overjoyed, ecstatic, and filled with positives energy and gratitude for running in nature surrounded by like-minded people. Living in harmony with our souls, hearts, and minds while conquering the red devil and any other demons that might lurk inside.
The half marathon point was getting near. We could hear cheering and clapping. As we came through Skunk Hollow, I heard friends screaming: “It’s Carmen.” Special thanks to my awesome friend Amy Jensen, whom I met in my first year of running through the California International Marathon training. She took my video and pictures, as well as helped me out with the food and hydration. So grateful for my running friends.
Skunk Hollow aid station around mile 13, where I am dancing with joy. My friends were cheering loudly for me, making me feel like a rock star. I danced, ate, and used the bathroom. Good times!
Melissa and I continued our running and talking, taking the Sweet Water Trail after we crossed the Salmon Falls Bridge. These trails reminded me of my training for the race and loved the rolling hills, even though we could not get into a rhythm. We still started to pass runners and focused on the trail, trying to avoid the many rocks, which I did remember from my training. This was the spot where I turned into a tea bag, immersing myself into nature the same way I did when I did my long training runs.
In preparation for the race, I have run various segments of the Salmon Falls 50K course with friends. I loved to turn myself into a tea bag and steep in all the beauty of nature, so I here is the poem I wrote below.
Ode to Tea Bag
Today during my 18-mile run I turned into a tea bag
and steeped myself in the lush grass, nature,
the moss-covered trees, the creek, the hills,
and the fresh air after the rain.
Trail running brings me the most joy.
I am mindful and love the twists and turns of the trails,
as well as the tunnels of trees.
I am focused on every step, every rock, and root.
I am deliberate running up and down the trail
while I quickly check the views
and sink and steep deeper into
nature’s magnificent teapot
allowing the flavors to infuse my being.
The Middle Miles – Long and Rolling
Melissa and I took turns to lead and stayed steady and strong. We talked, joked, and laughed. I told her that I knew that section of the trail very well and that we would get to New York Creek soon. We tried to get into a rhythm, but the rolling hills and rocky terrain made it a little challenging. Nonetheless, we felt great and were grateful to run together. Melissa’s form and climbing ability were impressive, so she motivated me to keep running strong. She also told me that I was giving her confidence with my positive attitude. We pushed each other on the trails; our running effort felt easier and much more pleasant than if we had each run on our own. Team work at its best!
Around mile 20, we started to pass a few runners. Our famous words were: “Coming through,” or “on your left.” As we passed these runners, most of them were nice, supportive, and cheered on us by saying: “Looking strong, ladies.”
The Last 7 Miles of My Second 50K Race
As opposed to my first 50K race that I ran with a lot of despair at the end two years ago, Salmon Falls 50K race made me feel calm, contained, and strong. I was telling Melissa about my improving as a runner and about my amazing coach Robert, when my cell phone rang. I pushed the middle button on my headset and responded, as I always do: “Hi, this is Carmen.” My coach was on the other line checking in with me. I told him that I only had seven miles to go and that I felt great. He told me to stay steady and finish strong. He also told me that he won a 50K race in the Bay Area for which I congratulated him. Later on that evening when we attended the Sacramento Running Association Awards ceremony, he told me that he was very surprised I answered the phone.
“I was happy to hear from you, coach,” I responded. Running at a 10-min to 11-min pace due to all the hills and the terrain made it easy to talk. Besides I am known to talk even during a much faster pace, so I was glad to have a life line to my amazing coach during the race, which helped me stay motivated and determined.
The sun felt warmer as it was past noon time, the trails replete with raw beauty, the hills ubiquitous, and the sweeping views of Folsom Lake magnificent. My body felt strong and my being anticipated the finish. However, as I told Melissa, we needed to stay and run within each mile and not let our minds wander. We ran in the NOW, the only true constant on the trails. We had to keep our focus on every step we took, every rock, tree root, hill, you name it. We became the one with the trail and gave it the respect it needed, while also asserting ourselves with conviction, determination, and joy.
We had been running for a little over six hours, when we reached the long and interminable levy leading us to Folsom Five Point Park, where the finish line was. I told Melissa that by now we could smell the blood, so to speak, and needed to push and finish strong. Melissa took the lead, getting into a much faster gear. The cheering got louder and louder. I saw Terri and David who cheered on me with enthusiasm and joy. To my left, I heard my husband and then saw our sweet son Alex who started to run next to me on the outside of our enclosed finish line. Sophia was also cheering on me dressed in her black winter jacket, her pony tail swinging from left to right.
“Come on, Mom. You can run faster,” Alex told me.
I crossed the finish line with elation and tremendous gratitude. My father was there in spirit. I cried with joy, as I received the beautiful medal made out of a light wood.
The sweet finish line! I felt strong with no pains in my body. How was that possible? I guess I had become a badass ultra runner.
Celebrating our awesome race and finish. Melissa finished 10th in her age group and I finished 14th in 6:25:34 minutes. What a feat!
Meeting my family at the finish line is always the sweetest sight for me – one I look forward to every big race. My husband is wonderful to drop me off and pick me up from all my long races. His love and support of me mean a lot!
I was not too hungry after the race, because I kept snacking and eating during the race, but was happy to get a Blue Ale and sit down a little. I was happy and amazed at my ability to run this 50K race and have a 48-minute PR from my first Folsom Gold Rush 50K, which felt hard at the time.
Practice, training with my Fleet Feet Racing team, as well as having my own coach sure make a big difference. To many more running adventures with gratitude for a race well-done and for the company of my new friend Melissa. I finished Salmon Falls 50K strong, defeating Red Dragon trail and any other demons lurking out there.
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!
“The best way to relieve stress is not yoga or meditation – although those can be wonderful – but human contact. We need each other.”
Maia Szalavitz, The Sun Magazine
Although running is a wonderful activity to do solo, because it is a great way to problem solve, meditate, and reflect on life, running with your friends can be fulfilling, fun, and make those miles pass by quickly. To me, running with fun and interesting friends has been especially valuable during the long runs, as well as when doing trail running. The chatting, the laughter, the multiple perspectives on life and running have made me look forward to my runs with my amazing friends and training partners.
Holly has been my first running partner. We connected through the Fleet Feet training Facebook page and we became friends. It is always lovely to run together!
Although we went to graduate school together, Elisia and I became friends during my first CIM training with Fleet Feet in 2015. We ran many of our long runs together and had fun and interesting conversations. I am so happy that we reconnected through running.
10 REASONS RUNNING WITH FRIENDS IS MORE FUN, INTERESTING, AND CHALLENGING
Running is a social experience and making new friends who love running as much as we do makes running much more enjoyable.
Running is simply more fun when doing it with your running buddy/training partner, or doing it with a big group.
My wonderful friend and favorite training partner Andrea and I jumping with joy during an easy run through Ancil Hoffman, or what I call my slice of Paradise. Lots of joy and excitement.
3. Running with a good like-minded friend can make you step outside your comfort zone, such as adding push-ups after your runs, or doing squats and lunges at the bottom of a hill. My friend Cheri, who teaches an awesome core class at Cal Fit, inspires me to get those push-ups done.
After Cheri saw lots of my running posts and jumping pictures, she played around with her phone and came up with a brilliant way to take high jumping selfies. She set the phone on the 10 second timer and placed it on the ground, making our jump look really high. Fun photography I-phone trick that I would not have learned had I not met Cheri and started running together.
4. We all have a love-hate relationship with speed workouts on the track, but doing it together as a group makes it so much fun and challenging. Being on the Fleet feet Sacramento racing team, I get to train with the team on Tuesdays for our track workouts and long runs during the weekend. When I see my team mates run strong, I am motivated to run strong myself.
A fun evening doing speed workout with my Fleet Feet racing team. Josh and Tracy are much faster and stronger than me as a runner, which motivates me to strive and reach for more.
5. Running with others is beneficial to our emotional well-being, as we can talk about our successes and injuries to people who might have similar experiences and can be supportive of our journeys. The key, however, is balance, as we do not want to bring everyone down with our injuries. Instead, we want to find ways to be positive and encouraging of our running partners.
6. Trail running is the best to run with others for various reasons: company, support, strength in numbers in case a bear or mountain lion cross our paths, and the fun of being together in nature.
Having become part of the Trail Mix family of dedicated trail runners in 2016 has been the most amazing experience for me, as I have met incredible people and have explored new trails I never knew that existed before.
Exploring the Auburn Confluence trails with Adam and Aaron. Adam and I have been on the Fleet Feet Fit and now on the Racing team together. He has also been an amazing training partner in 2016 when I trained for the CIM (California International Marathon), my third marathon.
7. Running with others gives us a different perspective on life, as talking about our ideas, problems, and challenges with our friends can bring solutions and answers that we could not have found on our own.
8. Running and training with a group, such as my racing team, can infuse more meaning and purpose into your life, as well as unveil life’s pure joys.
My team mates from Fleet Feet Sacramento Racing team, which I have joined last year in December after running my third marathon and having a great year with a few age group wins in races.
9. Running with others makes us more accountable, which is paramount to our success in life and sports.
I have run most of my 20 milers with my wonderful friends from FF Fit who kept me accountable and made me enjoy those 20 mile training runs for CIM.
10. Running with others brings the concept of togetherness to a new level and makes us happy, content, and physically and mentally healthy.
Karen and I became wonderful friends during the Parkway 20-mile race that we both ran before the CIM. This picture is at the start of the CIM marathon in 2016. Grateful for our amazing friendship.
And when in doubt of whether to run or not to run, simply reach out to your friends who will help you stay on track. Also remember: running is a two-way street, which means that your friends are there for you and you will in turn be there for them. All for one and one for all – my favorite musketeer mantra.
“What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult to each other? “ George Eliot, Middlemarch
For more info on running and real estate, whether buying or selling, please e-mail me at carmenmicsa@yahoo.com, or call me at 916-342-2446. Running for real estate with joy!
