Tag Archive | nyc marathon

New York City Half Marathon Tips, Course Strategy and Logistics

Feb21

You know the “don’t wear anything new on race day” and all the basics… now, let’s do the United NYC Half Marathon as well as we can. I have done this race 9 times so far -since 2006, its first year, to last year, 2019, and I keep running into people who haven’t raced it and have lots of questions (post in the comments section below if you have any questions not covered here!). If you just want to see RACE STRATEGY scroll through to the section in green.

And in case you want to see photos and read my race reports, here is the 2019 race report, the 2019 race video, the 2017 race report, the 2016 race report, 2015 NYC Half report, here is 2014 NYC Half and 2013 NYC Half.

PRE RACE LOGISTICS

Make a race prep list of what you’ll need a week or two before and sort it all by stages, here is a Marathon Packing List to start with. Whether you’re traveling or not, get everything in the list ready as soon as possible. Start prepping 2 weeks out.

Plan your nutrition waaaay ahead. You can buy gels at the expo if necessary, but get bagels/oatmeal/bananas and whatever you need for race day the day before as there will not be a lot of delis open at 4, 5, or 6 am. Some may be, but not a lot.

If you need any last minute things, you can buy most stuff at the expo/bib pickup (don’t forget to bring your reg form –download it from or bring your NYRR profile they will be ready early March, and photo identification) or here is an organized list with all the running stores by area.

I promise you this look is totally normal at the start!!!!

Prep some cheap or throwaway clothes for the start. Find a mylar blanket from your last half or marathon (and don’t throw away the one you’ll get at the finish here!). You will need them until the last minute in the corral (I wear one as pants with tape and one as a cape). I wear my throwaway cardigan or a sweater (cut in the front for easy peeling, kept it in place with a safety pin!) during the first mile too! Go to the dollar store and get knee-high socks, cut the foot and you’ll have throwaway arm warmers! I keep half of it on until I warm up, it can be windy and cold at the start!

Gear/What to wear… the weather can be anything from 50s to 30s so prepare (aka, train in) a few options and decide the day before. Or that morning. Be smart, and make sure you can peel off layers comfortably. If you don’t want to carry your phone, at least carry a $20 bill, a metrocard, and an ID with you, just in case. My rule is if it’s over 40 degrees, I do just singlet and shorts.

This is what the weather looked like the last few years:

  • 2019: 34 DEGREES, 46% HUMIDITY, WIND 6 MPH. (what I wore)
  • 2018: 28 DEGREES, 31% HUMIDITY, WIND 9 MPH NW
  • 2017: 34 DEGREES, 70% HUMIDITY, WIND 18 MPH (what I wore)
  • 2016: 34 DEGREES, 35% HUMIDITY, WIND 14 MPH (what I wore)
  • 2015: 42 DEGREES, 60% HUMIDITY, WIND 10-18 MPH (what I wore)
  • 2014: 31 DEGREES, 40% HUMIDITY, WIND 18 MPH (what I wore)
  • 2013: 30 DEGREES, 64% HUMIDITY, WIND W 7 MPH (what I wore)
  • 2012: 47 DEGREES, 90% HUMIDITY, WIND 3 MPH.
  • 2011: 37 DEGREES, 41% HUMIDITY, SUNNY
  • 2010: 53 DEGREES, 55% HUMIDITY, SUNNY

The temperature has been pretty consistent… but, you should assume it’ll feel 10 degrees under that temperature (hey wind!). So, depending on the wind/humidity/lack of sleep/whatever, you can add a hat, arm sleeves, leg warmers, etc. Always add things you can get rid of easily and won’t miss. If you’re not sure about a layer, keep in mind that once you leave the park and get to the Manhattan Bridge or de FDR, it can get a little windy there. Also, check the wind direction in the morning!

Headphones or not? If you are used to racing with headphones, bring them. I sometimes leave them on my ears (with the music off), and turn them on only when necessary.

Have your spectators download the NYC Half mobile app (will probably be ready to download a week or two before the race) where they can track you and a few more runners at a time and see you on the course.

If you need a short run before the race, go to Central Park. You’ll see many of your race-buddies and get to enjoy the best place in the world as a runner.

Find a mantra, or two, you might really need them. I write them in my hand where I am sure I will see it.

RACE LOGISTICS

Memorize your Start Schedule (or write in your hand like I do).

Getting to the start/Baggage Check. The easiest way to get there is to take the train, but make sure you check the website because your train or stop will depend on your wave. Also, check the Start Map carefully. Give yourself ample time (as this is weekend schedule) and check MTA for weekend alerts, or try any subway app: make sure your train is running! NO RACE BEFORE THE RACE. Also, if you are not sure where to go, I am 100% confident that if you just head over to the closest train stop, you’ll see someone you could follow to the race start.

During the race, please please be careful, stay alert and keep the music down. If you need to stop for a walk or move sideways for water, please please please signal with your arms, and look around behind you before you make any moves, DO NOT just stop or go sideways. Be considerate of your fellow runners who could trip! The good side of having all these people around is that you that you’ll always have someone to run with, pace off, or follow when you’re tired. Pick them up when you feel strong, encourage them when they need it, and keep your eyes peeled for anyone who might need help!!

There will be Water/Gatorade around every mile or so, so if you miss one, don’t stress. Don’t go for the first table as everyone will do that. There are many tables: go to the last one. You’ll find the portapotties where the water is, so keep an eye out and don’t dart sideways!

Think about joining an official pacer from the NYRR Pace Team, they’ll be wearing a green and white biofreeze sponsored singlet, and will run even splits through all 13.1 miles of the United Airlines NYC Half.

RACE STRATEGY

Here is the official 2020 course map

The easiest way to tackle this race is to divide it three parts:

  1. start comfy and relaxed -the first 2.5 miles are a roller coaster of a warm-up.

  2. at mile 5.3 pick the shit up

  3. at 53rd st, hit the gas and light the torch

Because this is not your typical half, where you can actually pick it up and finish fast, you have to pick your battles and do the best you can. I would race part 1 at 70% effort (or heart rate), part 2 at 85%, and part 3 at 95% and up. Obviously, adjust as you please.

Here is the overall course elevation:

PART 1

You start in the middle road of Prospect Park: it will be SUPER crowded and downhill so please be careful. Also, ppl won’t be ready and still looking for GPS signal and discarding layers, a recipe for disaster, look out and keep your ears attuned. Stay to the left and once you turn, HELLO BATTLE PASS HILL. Yeah, that is the Prospect Park hill.. the one and only. You’ll be done before mile one so please don’t overtake it too quickly. Mile two is mostly downhill and flat so it’ll be fast. Don’t be scared. This is a great out and back where you can see your friends!!

Those out and backs always get me super psyched. Keep yourself in a hard check. A nice turn around Grand Army Plaza and there we have a straightaway on Flatbush for a couple of miles towards the bridge.

Mile three is also up and then down, so it will be another average mile but now you’re out of Prospect Park, finally, and heading towards the Manhattan bridge thru Flatbush, which is, quite, and literally, FLAT.

Mile four will go SOOOO quickly with the excitement of the bridge coming towards you, that you won’t even notice the climb. It’s uphill for about a mile, 4.3 to 5.3, pretty brutal but so amazing and worth it. I can’t even tell you how insanely scenic Mile five is. 

WOOOOOOOW THAT WAS SUCH A RUSH!!!!!! VIEWS ON BOTH SIDES!!! SO EXHILARATING… HELP.

WOOOOOOOW THAT WAS SUCH A RUSH!!!!!! VIEWS ON BOTH SIDES!!! SO EXHILARATING… HELP.

The top of the bridge actually happens at about 5.3, and you start dropping quickly. Into Manhattan. That’s when we come face-first into the second part of our plan.

PART 2

Let’s

GO

This is when we pick things up. HARD. Mile five, the downhill from on the bridge, is going to feel like SO amazing, ride it hard. There is going to be a very hard right turn off the bridge at Mile 6, brace yourself, but also, take it and keep your eye out for gels, they’re right there, along with some AMAZING views of the bridge and Chinatown you don’t want to miss out.

Beautiful, right? But FOCUS.

This is when you can bang out some really fast miles on the FDR. Miles 7 and 8 all the way to 9 and a half are flat, use them up, you’re going to miss them later.

You might get bored. Find someone 20 meters (yards?) ahead and chase them down.

Focus on the United Nations Building ahead, because that is where we turn left. That is where we start climbing again, at mile 9.5. This is when things will start getting tough. Hold the pace. Stay right there, same effort. Mile 10 at 42nd will start feeling hard, but enjoy the views and the crowds. It’s quite special.

Also, it might feel windy here, a tunnel from the east river to the Hudson so tuck between people if you can and stay in your rhythm.

At 7th Avenue, we turn onto… TIMES SQUARE. A few blocks over, it’s Mile 11, and now you’re just really close.

and what happens now…?

PART 3

At 53rd, we MOVE. Why 53rd? Well… it’s a combo of reasons, there’s a downhill and we are close enough to take into account the bumps along the road and the amount of time we have left. This will obviously depend on how much gas you have left in you. But if you paced yourself properly, this is the moment you waited for, so go for it. Last year, I had my friend Whitney waiting there to signal the start of the end: 

We turn onto Central Park South and there’s Mile 12. 

Another left onto the park, more rolling hills all the way to the 72nd transverse and IF YOU TRAIN IN CENTRAL PARK, I’D RECCOMEND YOU RAN THIS BIT ONCE OR TWICE BEFORE THE RACE. I promise it will make a huge difference to know exactly how it will feel. The transverse is also an uphill, it will be hard and I want you to be mentally prepared for it. 

If you see this man at the finish line, that is Jim Heim, the Race Director. He is awesome. Give him a High Five.

Get your medal obviously.

and walk to get your bag if you left one

Here is a map of the finish area. Then brunch, shower, ice bath, rest, eat more, sleeeeeep, all the stuff, you know!

For more, definitely check out the 2019 race report, and the 2019 race video.

Questions?? Anything to add? Anything you want to go over? Lmk in the comments below!

—-Comment happily: you won’t be asked to create an account!

World Premiere of my 2019 NYC Marathon video…

Dec4

not sure if you’re ready for this, but it’s here. Finally. I know. I could hardly wait myself 😂🤣

report coming soon… stay tuned.

2019 TCS New York City Marathon: race week events!

Oct22

  I will be updating this every day. If you have anything to be added, just forward it to me. So, recheck every day! And don’t forget to re-read the New York City Marathon Tips, Course Strategy, and Info! post—- below updated 10/28

Monday, October 28th

  • NYRR Member Monday Presented by Biofreeze: Course Strategy and Happy Hour

When: 6 pm to 8 pm

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion

What: Learn course strategy, meet your pacer, and enjoy a happy hour with your fellow runners!

More info and RSVP.

  • Nike Shakeout Run

When: 7 pm to 9 pm

Where: New York Running Company powered by JackRabbit, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

What: If you have the need for speed and want to test your legs before the big race, you won’t want to miss this workout! Join JackRabbit and Nike for a fun night of speed work to get you ready for the marathon followed by a celebration! We will be doing lite speedwork and getting the opportunity to demo the Next%’s and Pegasus.

More info and RSVP.

Tuesday, October 29th

  • TCS New York City Marathon Book Club: Running with Sherman, Chris McDougall

When: 6 pm to 8 pm

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion

What: Join Chris McDougall, best-selling author of Born to Run, as he presents his new book, Running with Sherman, days before the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon. Chris will discuss the challenge of rescuing Sherman, a desperately sick donkey who’d been held for years in a small stall by an animal hoarder, and transforming him into a long-distance runner with the heart and guts to take on the World Championship Pack Burro Race. Chris will be taking your questions, signing books, and personally applying good-luck Sherman tattoos.

More info and RSVP.

  • Run & Pasta Party with New Balance

When: 6:30 pm

Where: Paragon Sports, 867 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

What: Join us on Tuesday, October 29 at 6:30PM for a Run with New Balance and Paragon Sports Run Club followed by a Pasta Party! Whether you’re racing the NYC Marathon or just looking to get in some miles, this will be a fun night for all! Bag check is available. All levels are welcome. If it’s your first time running with us, please arrive 5-10 minutes early. The running route will be shared on 10/28, but the run will be low mileage as we’re getting close to the big 26.2!

More info and RSVP.

  • Marathon Sign-Making Party with Brooks

When: 6:30 pm

Where: JackRabbit Brooklyn, 151 7th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215

What: Join us and Brooks Running as we host a Marathon Sign-Making Party for the NYC Marathon! We will have all the materials you need to make an awesome, inspiring, funny, crazy, sign along with food and drinks for a great time! We will also be raffling off a FREE pair of Brooks shoes to one lucky participant!

More info and RSVP.

Wednesday, October 30th

  • On Track: NYC Marathon Race Prep Panel

When: 6 pm

Where: 1156 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10128

What: Join your Marathon Race Prep instructors for our final On Track panel at our Madison Ave showroom located at 1156 Madison Ave on Wednesday, 10/30, to help you with all those pre-race questions. Can’t make it in-person? Tune in on Peloton’s Facebook channel for our Facebook Live starting at 6:30 PM EST.

More info and RSVP.

  • Shake it Out with Shake Shack

When: 7 pm

Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: It’s back for a third year running by popular demand! Let’s get those legs shaken out and run for some Shake Shack as we take on an easy shake out run before the big day. Altra and Icebreaker will be there to support with demo shoes, demo product and some great surprises for all. In addition, Altra Elite Amelia Boone will be joining this run. Amelia is a 4x Obstacle Racing World Champion. Ultrarunner just coming off of 100k and did we mention fulltime attorney? She will be sharing some of her story as an athlete and a runner! Additionally, Icebreaker will be hosting a social media giveaway. All runners who take a pic and share on social media post the event with appropriate hashtags – #movetonatural @icebreakernz will go in the drawing to win $1000 worth of icebreaker apparel from JackRabbit.

More info and RSVP.

  • Midnight Runners Halloween 6.66k Bootcamp

When: 7 pm

Where: Rockbar NYC, 185, New York, New York 10033

What: Drag your body out for a spirited All Hallows Eve edition of our Wednesday 6.66k Boot Camp run. With music and a bootcamp run past some of New York’s most hauntingly iconic landmarks, this FREE event will surely be a frightfully awesome time. Costumes are encouraged, even if you’re just dressed as a “human runner”. Ghastly surprises will be awarded to the most wickedly creative souls among us.

More info and RSVP.

Thursday, October 31st

  • Sunrise 5K on the High Line

When: 7 am

Where: JackRabbit – Union Square, 42 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011

What: Join JackRabbit, Asics, Rhone, Beyond Type 1 and Honey Stinger for a pre-race shakeout run on the High Line led by Rhone Co-Founders, Nate Checketts and Kyle McClure! We’ll start the morning with a short 3-mile run over the High Line and back down by the Hudson River before heading back to the store where all participants will receive a gift from Rhone, as well as a gift with purchase of any JackRabbit x Rhone Graphic Tee. Morning bites and refreshments will also be provided by Asics! Asics will be providing demo shoes to test out and enjoy during the event! And don’t forget to sample on Honey Stinger as they are the nutrition offered on the TCS NYC Marathon race course!

More info and RSVP.

  • TIME TO RECONNECT

When: 7 am

Where: JackRabbit – Union Square, 42 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011

What: Join us and our friends at Outdoor Voices for a morning yoga session followed by local coffee, healthy bites and Sweatee shirt customization! Yoga mats will be provided. Each pre-registered participant will receive a complimentary pair of ORA SLIDE at the conclusion of the event.

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Charity Breakfast Run

When: 9 am to 10 am

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join your fellow TCS New York City Marathon charity runners for an easy shakeout run in Central Park!

More info and RSVP.

  • ANNUAL PARAGON SPORTS MARATHON PARTY

When: 12 pm to 6 pm

Where: 867 Broadway at 18th St., New York, NY 10003

What: Every day we’ll have drinks with Anita, FREE Pasta with Asics, Caricature Drawings & Photos with Brooks, Race Day Shirt Name Customization, Massage with Fit Club NY, and Recovery with Theragun. Questions? E-mail [email protected]

More info and RSVP.

  • Run Talk: Abbott Dash to the Finish & USATF 5K Championship Meet the Elites

When: 4 pm to 5 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join us for a Run Talk with elite runners competing in the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line and USATF 5K Championships!

More info and RSVP.

  • New York Road Runners Hall of Fame

When: 6 pm to 7 pm

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion

What: Join us for the presentation of awards to the NYRR Hall of Fame Class of 2019, as well as the presentation of the Abebe Bikila Award for outstanding contributions to the sport of running, and the George Hirsch Journalism Award for excellence in the reporting, writing, and broadcasting of the sport of running.

More info and RSVP.

  • TIME TO RUN NYC SHAKEOUT

When: 6 pm

Where: HOKA ONE ONE POP UP, 93 MERCER STREET, NEW YORK, NY

What: Train hard. Race fearlessly. Share every part of the journey.  You don’t want to miss this very special event with HOKA NAZ Elite’s top female athletes and special guests for an evening of empowerment ahead of the NYC Marathon.

More info and RSVP.

  • Halloween Costume Run – Powered by on by Jackrabbit

When: 7 pm to 9 pm

Where: New York Running Company powered by JackRabbit, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

What: Join us on 10/31 at 7pm as we take to the streets in our costumes and celebrate not only Halloween together but NYC Marathon. On will be there with demo shoes, spookishly awesome treats and giveaways! Stay tuned for more information on the night!

More info and RSVP.

  • NYC Marathon Week ’19 w/ Harlem Run

When: 7 pm

Where: Harlem Run, 124th Street and Lenox Ave, New York, New York 10027

What: The week of the NYC marathon is like every major holiday combined. There will be so many events happening and we invite you to check out our schedule and join us! Note – these events are open to everyone, whether you’re running the marathon or not! – Halloween themed shakeout/ sign making

More info and RSVP.

Friday, November 1st

  • November Project Pre-Race Friday Workout!

When: 6:28 am

Where: Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, New York, New York 10023

What: It is our favorite workout of the year, every year. Come join us as we wish the marathon runners good luck, get a workout in, and prepare for what is always the best weekend of the year. THIS year, we area also celebrating November Project’s 8th Birthday!

More info and RSVP.

  • Morning Miles with Emma Coburn, Jenny Simpson & Cory McGee

When: 6:30 am

Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: Join New Balance Star Athletes, Jenny Simpson, Emma Coburn & Cory McGee for a morning of Q&A and shakeout run. Purchase any New Balance official TCS New York City Marathon gear and receive a gift with purchase that morning. Runners are also invited to come back to our Columbus Circle store for refreshments after the run and New Balance swag and enter for a chance to win goodr sunglasses.

More info and RSVP.

  • Own Your NYC Marathon Moment with JackRabbit & BRWD – Shakeout Run + Panel

When: 7 am

Where: JackRabbit – 3rd Ave, 1051 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10065

What: You’ve done the training and put the work in, now the most magical weekend in NYC has arrived. Join JackRabbit and BRWD Refreshing Energy for an easy 3-mile shakeout run before we sit down with a panel of runners who have run the NYC Marathon and will share their experience and advice, including the unconventional things that probably aren’t on your radar.

More info and RSVP.

  • TIME TO RUN NYC SHAKEOUT

When: 7:30 am

Where: HOKA ONE ONE POP UP, 93 MERCER STREET, NEW YORK, NY

What: Join HOKA for an easy 4 mile shakeout run through the streets of New York, customize your very own shirt, and get excited for the big weekend ahead. The first 50 to arrive will receive a limited-edition NYC themed Miir tumbler. See what the hype is about – test a pair of shoes from HOKA for your run

More info and RSVP.

  • The morning shakeout podcast LIVE with Mary Ngugi and Jared Ward

When: 12 pm to 1 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join us for a live recording of the morning shakeout with Mario Fraioli, featuring special guests Mary Ngugi and Jared Ward.

More info and RSVP.

  • ANNUAL PARAGON SPORTS MARATHON PARTY

When: 12 pm to 6 pm

Where: 867 Broadway at 18th St., New York, NY 10003

What: Every day we’ll have drinks with Anita, FREE Pasta with Asics, Caricature Drawings & Photos with Brooks, Race Day Shirt Name Customization, Massage with Fit Club NY, and Recovery with Theragun. Questions? E-mail [email protected]

More info and RSVP.

  • I’ll Have Another with Lindsey Hein LIVE: TCS New York City Marathon Pros

When: 1 pm to 2 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join host Lindsey Hein for a live podcast with TCS New York City Marathon professional women Sara Hall, Kellyn Taylor, and Roberta Groner.

More info and RSVP.

  • UCAN Presents: Master Your Marathon with NYC Champion Meb Keflezighi

When: 1 pm to 2:30 pm

Where: New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036

What: Who better to take you through the ins and outs of the New York City Marathon course than Meb Keflezighi, a 12x NYC Marathon finisher and author of some of the most memorable moments in race history! If you’re looking to run your best race in NYC, you won’t want to miss this special chance to get marathon tips from a running legend!

More info and RSVP.

  • Marathon Stories with Angie, Carrie, Emily and Tina

When: 6:30 pm

Where: New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036

What: Join podcasters and marathoners Angie Spencer, Carrie Tollefson, Emily Abbate, and Tina Muir for Marathon Stories – a motivating, inspiring, and real look at the journey to the marathon.

More info and RSVP.

  • Friday Night Lights with Saucony

When: 6:30 pm

Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: New York City is breathtaking by day, but by night it is just down right magical! Let us transform your NYC trip in to a magical journey through Central Park. It’ll all start with you getting your Saucony shoes laced up. But the magic doesn’t stop there! Thanks to the light stick you get when checking in, you will be guided on a mystical run through central park, ending in the perfect location to watch the NYC skyline light up with unmatchable fireworks brought to you by the TCS New York City Marathon. Still not enough… well you’re in for treat once you make your way back to the New York Running Company store in Columbus Circle, as you will be greeted with a buttery and sweet smell of your very own popcorn bar and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream buffet! That’s not enough.. well we will have one last parting gift for all our hard working athletes!

More info and RSVP.

  • Recovery Lounge with OOFOS & Hyperice

When: 6:30 pm

Where: JackRabbit Brooklyn, 151 7th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215

What: On Friday, November 1st at 6:30pm we will have a class focused on Recovery and Stretching ahead of the NYC Marathon! We will have a 30 minute workout session, followed by demos of Hyperice product and oofos recovery sandals so you can rest and recover in style! We will also have snacks and drinks for participants post-workout! All participants will receive 15% off their purchase (some exclusions apply) and we will be raffling off a pair of OOFOS slides to one lucky participant!

More info and RSVP.

  • The 41st Day—Journey of Ryan Hall Screening, w/ appearance by Ryan Hall

When: 7:30 PM

Where: Fohr, 72 Allen Street, Floor 3, New York, NY 11217

What: We’re proud to bring The 41st Day to New York, with a special appearance by Ryan Hall.

More info and RSVP.

  • NYC Womxn’s Relay

When: 9 pm

Where: Columbus Circle

What: Time to Go Bananas! Join Volee teammates and other womxn runners at our first #BananShenans event, a series of fun, unsanctioned events to bring womxn together for the love of running and community. All paces are welcome! This event will take place on Friday, November 1st at 9pm, at Columbus Circle. Please RSVP below by Thursday, October 31st so we know how many people to expect. Each relay team must have 4 runners, and each runner will run a 0.6 miles out-and-back, for a total of 1.2 miles per runner/4.8 miles per team.

More info and RSVP: [email protected]

Saturday, November 2nd

  • TCS New York City Marathon Shakeout Run: Presented by Strava

When: 8 am

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: get in an easy run with Strava members and some awesome pacers. All paces are welcome. Join the run whether you’re in town to cheer someone on Sunday or looking to get in one last run before conquering 26.2 miles.

More info and RSVP.

  • Sit Back & Relax with Meb

When: 8 am

Where: Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: Join us on November 2nd as we sit back and relax with Meb. He will be joining us for a short shakeout run and Q&A session to help you prepare for the New York City Marathon on Sunday! He will talk about his journey and mental fortitude during marathons. We will have KT Tape onsite to tape as well as UCAN onsite for any of your last minute marathon needs. Enjoy our Normatec chairs and mentally prepare for race day!

More info and RSVP.

  • Athletes Unfiltered: A Strava Podcast LIVE

When: 9 am to 10 am

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join Athletes Unfiltered, A Strava Podcast LIVE the day before the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon.

More info and RSVP.

  • Coffee with Dr. Jack Daniels, World’s Greatest Running Coach

When: 10 am to 11:30 am

Where: Brooklyn Running Company, 480 Bergen Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217

What: Come talk training, NYC Marathon course strategy, and running culture with Dr. Jack Daniels on Saturday, November 2nd before the 2019 New York City Marathon. Join us for coffee and some good insight from one of the greatest running coaches in the history of sport, along with many previous NYC Marathon finishers to talk course strategy and race-day preparation.

More info and RSVP.

  • Shake out run, stretch and conversation with Vasha & Power Malu hosted by Charlie Dark

When: 10 am

Where: 125 Prince Street, New York, NY 10012

What: A rare chance to hear a candid conversation from pillars of the global run movement on social impact and the future of run. In 2007 Dark founded the now 500-strong (and still growing) run collective Run Dem Crew. An alternative to traditional running clubs, he wanted to create a run club that was as much about running as it was about camaraderie and conversation.

More info and RSVP.

  • C Tolle Run LIVE with Paula Radcliffe and Abby Anderson

When: 10 am to 11 am

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join Carrie Tollefson, host of C Tolle Run, Paula Radcliffe, and special guest Abby Anderson.

More info and RSVP.

  • HOKA Cheer Sign Party

When: 10 am

Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: On November 2nd from 10am-9pm we will be partnering with HOKA ONE ONE to offer a fun and exciting Cheer Sign Party at our Columbus Circle location. Stop in anytime that day to pick up your last minute marathon essentials and create a sign for a family member or friend running! Take a picture with your sign and tag @Jackrabbit_original and @hokaoneone for a chance to win a free pair of shoes! We would love to see your race signs and hear who you are cheering for!

More info and RSVP.

  • NYC SHAKEOUT RUN

When: 10 am

Where: 11TH AVE & W 27TH, NEW YORK, NY 10001

What: Lace up and get ready to run the city during this marathon inspired weekend as we shakeout the legs, loosen up those muscles and sweat out the nerves before race day. Our light three-mile run will kick off from 11th Ave & W 27th at 10:00 AM. Reserve your spot, bring a friend, and get ready to roll.

More info and RSVP.

  • Running for Real with Tina Muir LIVE with Deena Kastor and Jonathan Fader

When: 12 pm to 1 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join podcast host Tina Muir for a conversation with Olympian Deena Kastor and New York Mets and New York Giants psychologist Jonathan Fader.

More info and RSVP.

  • ANNUAL PARAGON SPORTS MARATHON PARTY

When: 12 pm to 6 pm

Where: 867 Broadway at 18th St., New York, NY 10003

What: Every day we’ll have drinks with Anita, FREE Pasta with Asics, Caricature Drawings & Photos with Brooks, Race Day Shirt Name Customization, Massage with Fit Club NY, and Recovery with Theragun. Questions? E-mail [email protected]

More info and RSVP.

  • Ali on the Run Show LIVE: Why It’s an Exciting Time for Women in Running

When: 1 pm to 2 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join Ali Feller, host of the Ali on the Run Show, as she sits down with Lauren Fleshman, Mary Wittenberg, Lindsay Crouse, and Jen Ator.

More info and RSVP.

  • Honey Stinger Hive Life Podcast LIVE

When: 2 pm to 3 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: Join us for a live recording of Honey Stinger’s Hive Life podcast with host David Willey, featuring Honey Stinger athlete Mohamed Hrezi.

More info and RSVP.

  • On Track NYC Marathon Weekend Events

When: 6 pm

Where: 1156 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10028-0410, United States

What: Get race-day ready with Peloton as we approach 26.2! Create customized gear, relax in our recovery lounge, pick up free juices, fit in a final meditation session or sign up for 3 unique yoga experiences before you hit the course on Sunday.

More info and RSVP.

Sunday, November 3rd

When: 2 pm

Where: HOKA ONE ONE POP UP, 93 MERCER STREET, NEW YORK, NY

What: Congratulations! Whether or not you’re racing the NYC marathon, join HOKA for a pop-up experience and special celebration throughout the afternoon. Stop by the HOKA pop-up anytime between 2 – 6 PM and enjoy complimentary drinks, snacks, special prizes and NormaTec recovery product.

More info and RSVP.

  • AFTER:MILES POWERED BY ADIDAS

When: 4 pm to 8 pm

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB Run Hub

What: 26.2 After Party. Join us as we celebrate the biggest marathon in the world. This will be the livest party in the New York City, with recovery, food, drinks, and music by Uptown’s own Yoo Q! & Steph Cakes.  RSVP now, as spots are expected to be filled fast.
RSVP does not guarantee entry. First come, first serve. This is a 21+ only event. Bring your ID.

More info and RSVP.

Monday, November 4th

  • The Repair Shop

When: 10 am to 5 pm

Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: This is an all-day recovery event at the New York Running Company, featuring laser engravings of race times on all Goodr Sunglasses! We’re taking Marathon Monday to a whole new level with our Repair Shop! Featuring the first-ever laser engraver at Jackrabbit thanks to Goodr! Stop by after your race on Marathon Monday and get your Goodr glasses laser engraved with your race time!

More info and RSVP.

  • Recovery Workout – Mobility & Stretch Post-NYC Marathon for Runners

When: 7 p,

Where: New York Running Company, 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019

What: Join us for a Recovery Session post race on Monday, November 4th at @ 7pm with Spring Forward Physical Therapy! Move, stretch, and recover, all while supporting the American Cancer Society (proceeds from the class will be matched by SFPT and donated to charity). During and after the class, Normatec boots will be available for use! Class participants will also receive 15% off their purchases (some exclusions apply and we will be raffling off a free physical therapy evaluation ($250 value) as well as a FREE pair of Nike Pegasus Turbo 2 to one lucky participant!

More info and RSVP.

updated daily so bookmark this post and keep checking here every day!

Don’t forget to re-read the New York City Marathon Tips, Course Strategy and Info! post

I’ve compiled this listing from brands/athletes/stores’ social channels or emails. Events might have been updated at a later date so please check the source for updated info. If you have/see any other events not listed here, pls send my way. Have fun!

 

  • xx

When: x

Where: x

What: x

More info and RSVP.

2018 TCS New York City Marathon: race week events!

Oct20

  I will be updating this every day. If you have anything to be added, just forward it to me. So, recheck every day! updated 10/30. 7:30 pm

And don’t forget to re-read the New York City Marathon Tips, Course Strategy, and Info! post

 

Wednesday, October 25th

  • Wednesday Morning IronStrength Workout in Central Park with Dr. Metzl

When: 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM

Where: Delacorte Theater, 81 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023

What: Come join our monthly morning workout in Central Park with Dr. Jordan Metzl on Wednesday Morning October, 24th in Central Park! We will meet by the benches outside the Delacorte Theater starting at 6:20 AM and will leave by 6:25 AM. The workout runs 6:30-7:30 AM and will consist of hills, strength, and tons of fun! (and SWAG for those who work hard!) Come join us as we celebrate movement, community, fun, and sweat! Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

Thursday, October 26th

  • NYC Marathon Discovery Event

When: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Where: 295 Madison Avenue, 10TH FLOOR, New York, NY 10017

What: Virtually discover the NYC Marathon! Led by running coach John Honerkamp, we’ll walk step by step through the course. Cost: $10.

More info and RSVP.

Saturday, October 27th

  • On the Last 10!

When: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Where: JackRabbit, 1051 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10065

What: JackRabbit & On will be leading the way with GU providing the fuel that will help you get one step closer to that goal by leading you through the Last 10 miles of the Marathon course. Plus, you won’t need to worry about a thing the whole way. We will have nutrition on the course and we will take care of your bags as well. Plus, there will be breakfast at the finish with plenty of other fun SWAG. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • Yoga for Runners to Benefit Achilles International at Pure Yoga East!

When: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Where: Pure Yoga East, 203 East 86th Street, New York, NY 10028

What: Join us for a special IronStrength for a Cause event on Saturday, October 27th at the beautiful studios of Pure Yoga East. We are honored to host a Yoga for Runners class to raise funds and awareness for our friends at the New York Chapter of Achilles International, an organization that promotes athletic participation for disabled athletes. Runners and non-runners are welcome! To give a small sense of the amazing courage and strength of Achilles athletes, this class will be a blindfolded yoga class. Registrants are asked to bring a blindfold. We’ll be hearing from some of the amazing Achilles runners before class. Cost: $25

More info and RSVP.

Monday, October 29th

  • NYRR Member Monday: Course Strategy, Meet Your Pacer, and Happy Hour

When: 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, Central Park at West 67th Street, New York, NY 10065

More info and RSVP.

Tuesday, October 30th

  • On x Paragon Sports Fun Run & Live Panel Event

When: 6:30PM to 9:30PM

Where: Paragon Sports, 867 Broadway, New York, NY

What: Getting excited about the NYC Marathon? Join On x Paragon Sports for a pre-marathon fun run followed by a LIVE podcast recording of Hurdle by Emily Abbate with On Co-Founder Caspar Coppetti. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • The Unifying Power of Sports After Tragedy with Deena Kastor, Meb Keflezighi, Peter Ciaccia, and Clifford Chanin

When: 6:30–8:00 p.m.

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, Central Park at West 67th Street, New York, NY 10065

More info and RSVP.

Wednesday, October 31st

  • Special Screening: The Human Race and Post-Screening Chat with Director Liz Vassey and Kathrine Switzer

When: 6:00–9:00 p.m.

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, Central Park at West 67th Street, New York, NY 10065

More info and RSVP.

  • Shake It Out With Shake Shack & JackRabbit!

When: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Where: New York Running Company by JackRabbit, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

What: Who’s ready to shake it out with Shake Shack, Rhone, and Ciele on 10/31? Wait…10/31, that’s Halloween! Yes, it is and not only are we bringing back our annual Shake Shack Marathon Shakeout Run, but we are also adding in the fun spirit of Halloween. So, get out your costumes, get out your running shoes, and let’s show this city how fun runners really are! This year’s Shake Out Run will start at JackRabbit Columbus Circle at 6:30pm and take runners through Central Park on a 3-mile route passing by the finish line of the NYC Marathon. The sweat will be worth it and rewarded with a complimentary drink at Shake Shack on the house! The run will finish at the Shake Shack on 86th & Lexington. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

Thursday, November 1st

  • Hoka One One Runs the Highline

When: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Where: JackRabbit – Union Square, 42 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011

What: What better way to kick off your pre-marathon celebration than by joining JackRabbit and HOKA ONE ONE for a group shakeout run on November 1st at 7am. We will take runners on a short 3-mile run over the Highline and back down by the Hudson, followed by a special talk and Q&A at 8:00 AM with HOKA sponsored athletes. Lite bites and refreshments will be provided! Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance

When: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m

Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Halls 3B and 3E. 11th Avenue at West 35th Street, New York, NY 1000

What: Number Pickup / Course Strategy with NYRR Coaches / TCS New York City Marathon Logistics with NYRR Staff.Cost: Free to enter.

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR RUNTalk: Olympians Bernard Lagat, Abdi Abdirahman, and Juan Luis Barrios

When: 4:00–5:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Prep with HSS: Strength Training with Pam Geisel

When: 5:00–6:00 p.m

More info and RSVP.

  • Pre-marathon happy hour + trivia at Brooklyn Running Company

When: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Where: Brooklyn Running Company, 222 Grand St, Brooklyn, New York 11211

What:  fun evening of running trivia + beer with the good folks at Brooklyn Running Company plus a chance to shop the super-limited edition rabbit NYC collection.

More info and RSVP.

  • NYC Race Day Ready with Jackrabbit & Saucony

When: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Where: New York Running Company by JackRabbit, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

What: Join Jackrabbit and Saucony for an exclusive event that will get you ready for your big day in the Big Apple! Shake out your legs on a group run in Central Park at 6:00pm. Customize your race-day outfit from 6-8:00pm, though we’ll take a short break for the athlete chat. Settle in for a championship-level chat with some of running’s finest: Rod Dixon, Molly Huddle, Jared Ward and Tim Ritchie. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR RUNTalk: Running with Diabetes Hosted by Abbott

When: 6:00–7:00 p.m.

More info and RSVP.

  • Empowered by Running: Des Linden

When: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Where: 295 Madison Avenue, 10TH FLOOR, New York, NY 10017

What: Join Custom Performance for an Evening with Desiree Linden, champion of the 2018 Boston Marathon! Hear Des’s story and take a personal photo with the legend herself! Cost: $80/$100

More info and RSVP.

  • Screening: Icarus and Post-Screening Chat with Academy Award-Winning Director Bryan Fogel

When: 6:00–10:00 p.m.

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, Central Park at West 67th Street, New York, NY 10065

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR RUNTalk en español con Beverly Ramos y Rafa Botello

When: 7:00–8:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

Friday, November 2nd

  • Morning Miles with New Balance – TCS New York City Marathon Edition

When: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Where: New York Running Company by JackRabbit, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

What: Join us on November 2nd as we take on the morning with a shake out run and some fun hosted by New Balance. We will do a 3-mile route and end back at the store where we will have some lite brunch items and refreshments. Don’t miss a special guest appearance – you will be running with 2017 World Steeplechase Champion, Emma Coburn! Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • KT Tape NYC Marathon Shake Out Run with Meb

When: 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM

Where:  JackRabbit, 140 West 72nd Street, New York, NY 10023

What: KT Tape and JackRabbit offer an experience to remember! Become one of the lucky few who will get a chance to meet and run with one of the greatest marathoners to ever wear the Team USA singlet, 2009 New York City Marathon Champion and Olympic Silver Medalist Meb Keflezighi. Come get KT Tape’d up at 7 am, hear some inspirational words from Meb, and head out with him on an easy 3-mile run through beautiful Central Park! Light refreshments will be served afterwards and Meb will be there to sign autographs, take pictures, and answer questions. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance

When: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m

Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Halls 3B and 3E. 11th Avenue at West 35th Street, New York, NY 1000

What: Number Pickup / Course Strategy with NYRR Coaches / TCS New York City Marathon Logistics with NYRR Staff.Cost: Free to enter.

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Estrategia del Recorrido con Germán Silva

When: 10:00–11:00 a.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Consigli strategici per la TCS New York City Marathon

When: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR Corriendo un Recorrido de Historia con German Silva

When: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Kursstrategie für den TCS New York City Marathon

When: 12:00–1:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Tour di corsa escursionistica NYRR

When: 12:00–1:30 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Stratégie de course pour le TCS New York City Marathon

When: 1:00–2:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR-Tour der Laufgeschichte von NYC

When: 1:00–2:30 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • L’histoire du NYRR en petites foulées

When: 2:00–3:30 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Prep with HSS: Foam Rolling

When: 5:00–6:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • On Art Run with Q&A Featuring Mammoth Track Club Coach Andrew Kastor

When: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: New York Running Company by JackRabbit, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

What: The On Art Run arrives in NYC at New York Running Company by Jackrabbitto help you shake out your legs before the marathon while enjoying a few of our favorite art pieces in the area. Mammoth Track Club coach Andrew Kastor will be on hand for a panel discussion and a short Q&A. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Book Club: Sebastien Samson and Amby Burfoot

When: 6:00–7:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR Night of Champions

When: 6:00–10:00 p.m.

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, Central Park at West 67th Street, New York, NY 10065

What: For tickets, visit nightofchampions.nyrr.org Cost: check the link.

More info and RSVP.

  • Yoga & Meditation for the NYC Marathon

When: 6:30 PM

Where: THE FOUNDRY powered by Finish Line PT

What: Join 8-time NYC Marathon finisher and therapeutic yoga teacher for athletes, Amanda Kerpius, for a gentle runners yoga flow and Yoga Nidra meditation and visualization of the NYC Marathon course. Hosted at THE FOUNDRY powered by Finish Line PT, the evening will start with a gentle yoga flow designed to stretch major muscle groups and prepare the body for deep relaxation and lead into the meditation portion of the evening. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • After Kipchoge:  Records, Barriers, and the Future of the Marathon Panel

When: 7 PM

Where: Tracksmith New York Pop-Up at 161 Grand Street

Saturday, November 3rd

  • Rabbit Pop Up + Recovery Lounge

When: 9 am to 1 pm

Where: 295 Madison Avenue, 10TH FLOOR, New York, NY 10017

What: Join rabbit and our friends at Custom Performance NYC for the perfect pre-marathon morning. We’ll start off with a nice little shakeout run, led by Street 101, and followed by juice, bagels and a recovery lounge you won’t want to miss. Not to mention, you can shop all of rabbit’s super-limited edition NYC gear!

More info and RSVP.

  • RUNHealthy: TCS New York City Marathon Pre-Race Stretching

When: 9:30–10:30 a.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Shack-Out run with Mario Fraoli

When: 9:30 am

Where:  Tracksmith New York Pop-Up at 161 Grand Street

  • TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance

When: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m

Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Halls 3B and 3E. 11th Avenue at West 35th Street, New York, NY 1000

What: Number Pickup / Course Strategy with NYRR Coaches / TCS New York City Marathon Logistics with NYRR Staff. Cost: Free to enter.

More info and RSVP.

  • NYC Shakeout Art Run

When: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Where: Burton Flagship Store, 69 Greene St. New York, NY 10002

What: Whether you’re in town for the New York City Marathon, a New Yorker running the NYC Marathon or just want to get in a beautiful tour of the world’s best street art, come do a 5K art run around downtown NYC. We will see lots of new street art and murals in the Lower East Side and SoHo on this relaxed pace NYC Shakeout Art Run. Cost: $30

More info and RSVP.

  • Nike NYC Shakeout Run

When: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Where: 138 Bowery

What: Lace up and get ready to run the city during this marathon inspired weekend as we shakeout the legs, loosen up those muscles and sweat out the nerves before race day. Our light three-mile run will kick off from 138 Bowery at 11:00 AM
Reserve your spot, bring a friend, and get ready to roll. 10:00am – 11:00am check-in / 11:00am – 12:00pm shakeout run /
12:00pm – 2:00pm Q&A with special guest + DJ’d post run hydration and nutrition. Cost: Free

More info and RSVP.

  • The Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance with Author Alex Hutchinson and Team New Balance’s Emma Coburn

When: 12:00–1:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Six Who Sat: A Conversation with ESPN 30 for 30 Podcast Team, Nina Kuscsik, and Kathrine Switzer

When: 1:00–2:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • I’ll Have Another With Lindsey Hein and Paula Radcliffe Live!

When: 2:00–3:00 p.m

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • NYRR Marathon Legends: Joan Benoit Samuelson, Frank Shorter, and Bill Rodgers

When: 3:00–4:00 p.m

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Team #MovedMe: Inspiring Stories of the TCS New York City Marathon

When: 4:00–5:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

  • Carbo-Load with Gwen Jorgensen

When: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Where: Tarallucci e Vino Nomad, 44 E 28th Street, New York, New York 10016

What: Join us the night before the NYC Marathon to chat with Olympic gold-medalist Gwen Jorgensen about her training regimen, setting goals and how sleep is crucial to all of it. Pasta bites + drinks will be provided!

More info and RSVP.

Sunday, November 4th

  • TCS New York City Marathon Live Stream

When: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

What: Swing by the NYRR RUNCENTER while you are waiting for your runner to finish the TCS New York City Marathon or join in after the race to shop for official TCS New York City Marathon gear presented by New Balance!

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

Monday, November 5th

  • Marathon Monday at the TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion

When: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Where: TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, Central Park at West 67th Street, New York, NY 10065

What: Celebrate your accomplishment at the TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion. Jumpstart your recovery at the Hospital for Special Surgery Runner Recovery Zone, shop for New Balance finisher gear, have your finisher medal engraved by Fond Memories, and purchase commemorative editions of the New York Times. Cost: Free to enter.

More info and RSVP.

  • TCS New York City Marathon Re-Broadcast

When: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

What: After you have your medal engraved at the TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion, come check out the re-broadcast of the TCS New York City Marathon, which will be playing all day at the NYRR RUNCENTER. You can also shop for official TCS New York City Marathon gear presented by New Balance!

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

Tuesday, November 6th

  • TCS New York City Marathon Medal Engraving

When: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

Wednesday, November 7th

  • TCS New York City Marathon Medal Engraving

When: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Where: NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, 320 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019

More info and RSVP.

updated daily so bookmark this post and keep checking here every day!

Don’t forget to re-read the New York City Marathon Tips, Course Strategy and Info! post

I’ve compiled this listing from brands/athletes/stores’ social channels or emails. Events might have been updated at a later date so please check the source for updated info. If you have/see any other events not listed here, pls send my way. Have fun!

Boomer’s Cystic Fibrosis Run to Breathe (4M) – Recap

Apr5

I am signed for SOMETHING every weekend for the next two months so I am going to keep these reports short (this one ends with a twist…).

So, this is the same 4 mile loop I race about 15 times a year… or so. I’ve done this course soooo many times I can do it in my sleep. And like those super-tired-just-did-speedwork sleeps… I met Patricia at the start corral (and Steve, heeey!!) and she asked me what pace I’d do it in… I said around 28:30. Then I told her “my first mile is going to be 7:15, my second mile is going to be 7:02, third mile is usually around 7:30 and then a 6:55 or 6:56 closer”. She looked at me like I was crazy, but that how I pace to an average 7:02 or 7:05 average race. IN GENERAL, of course.

The weather was great, which I wasn’t expecting. We had been told all week it was going to rain. Now, if I have to count how many races the weather people got it wrong for, I can just give you a list of all my races…!!! I still didn’t feel like racing, so I had woken up at 6:30, took Diego (my friend’s dog I was watching) out to pee and got back into bed. Until 8 am. Race was to start at 9.

When the gun went off, I went into auto mode. At mile 1, I pointed at the clock, I was right on what I had predicted. I then noticed I hadn’t turned on my gps. Oh well. I had no idea what my first mile and a bit was … that’s why I am not posting screenshots of my laps. Mile 2 was fast as usual and I lost Patricia. I wasn’t sure but I thought she had dropped back a bit. Mile 3, I remembered to lap my watch so I have the two last laps, mile 3 was 7:15 (what?) though I didn’t look at it at the time. And last mile, here is the twist, was a 6:33 closer. WHAT?

WHAT?
where did that come from??

Still, I waited a bit to check my results (I had forgotten about live results…!) and I saw 28:04. that is SO close to my 28:00 PR!!!!!!!!!!!!! That was another shocker. Maybe I am closer than I think to PR shape… I went into the United NYC Half thinking I wasn’t, I didn’t push to PR, then I had that whole mess with the layers…. Last week’s 10K went great, even tired a week post-half. Seems like I might be sharper than I thought… Yes, I have the lowest expectations and you all told me, I know, but I get there when I get there, okay?

Stats Time:

Finish time: 28:04 Average Pace: 7:01

Previous PR: 28:00 From: April, 2013

Age Grading: 71.06%

Overall Place: 338 of 4,731

Gender Place: 30 of 2,250

Age Place: 3 of 240

back into the 71% AG wohoooooo. I love it when you are just sitting in bed on race day and really don’t want to get out of bed but then you have a fast and surprising race… Mostly because that happens aaaaall the time!! 😉 

then Patricia and I run another loop cheering, total 11 miles

Central Park Spring Classic 10K – Recap

Mar27

This is going to be quick because:

1- I don’t have race pictures

2- I wasn’t really racing…

Patricia and I met up at the B corral as usual. Patricia finished a few seconds behind me at the United NYC Half last weekend so we figured we were in good shape to run together. Also, we were still recovering from the half so we were taking this as a workout. A very hard, structured, tempo, with lots of pacers. We met Gordon in the corral, along with a bunch more people. This is a “classic” NYRR race, like a toned down version of their usually big megaproductions, where the price is lower, there is no t-shirt, smaller field, and no prizes. Closer to what a regular race anywhere else in the world looks like. But I had never done one of these and was super curious.

Anyway, the horn blows, Patricia and I start together committed to run together. We’d start slow, as there’s Harlem Hill on the first mile. And then pick it up.

It was SO HOT. I was wearing a bra and tiny shorts already. In March. Amazing. We pretty much run good splits though we kept telling each other we were going too fast about every 20 seconds… We saw a few friends cheering, heeeey, we went up and down Cat Hill and then we pushed a bit. And we were done. We actually finished the race and crossed over the finish line holding hands, given how we had worked together through the whole race. Note to self: SO hard to run proper tangents when you run with someone (who doesn’t!!!), after a few miles, I started pointing where to go, I hope Patricia learned!!

Then… we did caught up with Carolina who was at the finish, we did a northern loop with Patricia and Justin, then I run to the Run Center, and then I hosted the NYRR History Tour with Gordon Bakoulis through the park. 15 miles total. I was RAVENOUS after. I almost ate my arm.

don’t ask. I don’t.

NYRR History Tour. Organized by NYRR and usually hosted by Grandmaster Stuart Calderwood, Gordon and I were sub-hosting as he was out of town. You learn facts and story of Central Park this, with a 4.6 run in there too!

Stats Time:

Finish time: 45:27 Average Pace: 7:19

Previous PR: 44:32 From: May, 2013

Age Grading: 69.63%

Overall Place: 343 of 3672

Gender Place: 43 of 1895

Age Place: 2 of 208

Another race this next weekend, the Boomer’s Cystic Fibrosis Run to Breathe (4M). Let’s do this!!!

For your long run this weekend: Delta’s NY is GO on the Hudson River Greenway

Oct21

As New York’s number one airline and as part of its latest campaign – NY is GO – Delta is supporting us New Yorkers while we train for the TCS NYC Marathon with some fun leading up to the big race day. Because so many of us are taking our last long run this weekend – Delta will surprise and delight us on the Hudson River Greenway with hydration stations, fuel packs, swag, cheering and entertainment, and at the end of the route they will offer up additional refreshments and food (all for free!).

Here are the details:

Delta’s “NY IS GO” Run

  • Sunday, October 23, 2016
  • Hudson River Greenway (Pier 96, Pier 84, Pier 64 *Chelsea Piers, Pier 51, Pier 26)
  • 7AM – 3PM

Delta will take over the Greenway using stations along the route with fuel and encouragement to ensure a rewarding landing at the finish line. The five stations include water and Powerade to hydrate on-the-go, fuel packs and other easy-to-grab snacks, and cheering fans with other fun entertainment to encourage runners to keep GOing. At the end of the route, runners are invited to Chelsea Piers with Delta for light refreshments, a premium-filled GO Bag and a crowd drawing shareable photo moment, to encourage runners to embrace their GO.

I am proud to partner with Delta, hope you get there and enjoy this event! See you there?

More info here

Airbnb Brooklyn Half – Custom Pace Bracelet

May4

I adjusted this based on my Race Strategy here. I know, you love me. I love you too. Make sure you do read that race strategy info, or adjust this pace bracelet as you please. Or don’t wear it. I won’t know.

you can download the excel sheet here: Brooklyn Half Marathon Pace Sheet

all you have to do is enter the desired finish time on the yellow cell on top and watch the magic happen. Then you can adjust the splits if you feel like it. I won’t be offended!

for more info on how to tackle the race, check the Airbnb Brooklyn Half Race Strategy and Tips post. Comments? Questions? there’s a box below!!

United NYC Half Marathon – Custom Pace Bracelet

Mar3

I adjusted this based on my Race Strategy here. I know, you love me. I love you too.

you can download the excel sheet here: NYC Half Splits

all you have to do is enter the desired finish time on the yellow cell on top and watch the magic happen. And you can adjust the splits if you feel like it. I won’t be offended!

for more info on how to tackle the race, check the New York City Half Marathon Tips, Course Strategy and Logistics post. Comments? Questions? there’s a box below!!

 

New York City Half Marathon Tips, Course Strategy and Logistics

Feb10
2020 update, this course is now also updated… so… let me put together a newer race course strategy… go to http://www.runningandthecity.com for newer stuff.
2017 Update: even though this post is awesome and contains a lot of information you can still use, it talks about the OLD course that was discontinued after the 2018 race. Read the tips below, and then head over here for the new course info. I am going to mark green the text below that doesn’t apply anymore.

You know the “don’t wear anything new on race day” and all the basics… now, let’s do the United NYC Half Marathon as well as we can. I have done this race 8 times so far -from 2:06 in its first year, 2006, to 1:36 in 2016, and I keep running into people who haven’t raced it and have lots of questions (post in the comments section below if you have any questions not covered here!).

And in case you want to see photos and read my race reports, go here for all of them, or, here is the 2015 NYC Half report, here is 2014 NYC Half and 2013 NYC Half. Also, download the custom pace bracelet, I created for this pace strip based on the race strategy below.

PRE RACE LOGISTICS

Make a race prep list of what you’ll need a week or two before and sort it all by stages, here is a Marathon Packing List to start with. Whether you’re traveling or not, get everything in the list ready as soon as possible. Start prepping 2 weeks out.

Plan your nutrition waaaay ahead. You can buy gels at the expo if necessary, but get bagels/oatmeal/bananas and whatever you need for race day the day before as there will not be a lot of delis open at 4, 5, or 6 am. Some may be, but not a lot.

If you need any last minute thing, you can buy most stuff at the expo/bib pickup (don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your reg form –download it from your NYRR profile they will be ready early March, and photo identification) or here is an organized list with all the running stores by area.

new york city marathon 2014 pictures start (2)

we all look like weirdos anyway, wear old stuff you have to discard to the start of the race!

Prep some cheap or throwaway clothes to the start. Find a mylar blanket from your last half or marathon (and don’t throw away the one you’ll get at the finish here!). You will need them until the last minute in the corral (I wear one as pants with tape and one as a cape). I wear my throwaway cardigan or a sweater (cut in the front for easy peeling, kept it in p

nyc half nycunitedhalf nyrr nychalf central park elizabeth maiuolo (21)

what throwaway-knee-high socks as arm-warmers look like when you forget to take them off (2015 NYC Half)

lace with a safety pin!) during the first mile too! Go to the dollar store and get knee-high socks, cut the foot and you’ll have throwaway arm warmers! I keep half of it on until I warm up, it can be windy and cold at the start!

 

Gear/What to wear… the weather can be anything from 50s to 20s so prepare (aka, train in) a few options and decide the day before. Or that morning. Be smart, and make sure you can peel off layers comfortably. If you don’t want to carry your phone, at least carry a $20 bill, a metrocard, and an ID with you, just in case. My rule is if it’s over 40 degrees, I do just singlet and shorts (pics from last year).

This is what the weather looked like the last few years:

  • 2018: 28 DEGREES, 31% HUMIDITY, WIND 9 MPH NW
  • 2017: 34 DEGREES, 70% HUMIDITY, WIND 18 MPH
  • 2016: 34 DEGREES, 35% HUMIDITY, WIND 14 MPH
  • 2015: 42 DEGREES, 60% HUMIDITY, WIND 10-18 MPH
  • 2014: 31 DEGREES, 40% HUMIDITY, WIND 18 MPH
  • 2013: 30 DEGREES, 64% HUMIDITY, WIND W 7 MPH
  • 2012: 47 DEGREES, 90% HUMIDITY, WIND 3 MPH.
  • 2011: 37 DEGREES, 41% HUMIDITY, SUNNY
  • 2010: 53 DEGREES, 55% HUMIDITY, SUNNY

Temperature has been pretty consistent… but, you should assume it’ll feel 10 degrees under that temperature (hey wind!). So, depending on the wind/humidity/lack of sleep/whatever, you can add hat, arm sleeves, leg warmers, etc. Always add things you can get rid of easily and won’t miss. If you’re not sure about a layer, keep in mind that once you leave the park and get to the West Side Highway, it can get a little windy there. Check the wind direction in the morning!

Best tool to have at any race: your name on your shirt, do not even question this!! If you don’t want your name, write something funny you’ll want people to scream to you all over the course. This is a big race and there will be a lot of spectators along the course and having them scream your name will make your race 100 times better. If you don’t want to ruin your gear, and are not super crafty or into going to Michael’s, cut the letters out of duct tape (like I do!) and voila, they’ll peel right off!

Headphones or not? If you are used to racing with headphones, bring them. I sometimes leave them on my ears (with the music off), and turn them on only when necessary. Central Park will be CROWDED, seriously crowded, so it’s smart to keep the music off, or very low so you can hear people around you. Once you are in the West Side Highway, and if it gets a little monotonous for you, go for it. You’ll have a lot of people cheering and you don’t want to miss it, but if you do have the music on later on, still make sure you can still hear what is happening around you!!!! Okay?

Place your spectators in spots where you’ll need encouragement (quite probably along the West Side Highway). If they are not the adventurous kind, they could see you anywhere in the park, always on your right, and then head over to the finish. Otherwise, there is an insane amount of combination of spots they can see you at. Study the map with them and calculate how much time they’ll have to get from one spot to the other based on your speed. For example, the 1st location would usually be in Central Park, east side, around 85 st, on your left (they need to be on the inside part of the park), that would be your mile 1. After they see you, they walk across the park (it won’t be more than a 10 minute walk) around the Great Lawn to West 86th, where they can see you again at mile 4.5! They have to be on the runner’s right (the outside of the park lane). Elite runners will be there in 20 minutes, and you can tell them how long it’d take you to do 4.5 miles! So, they have to hurry and cross over the quarter mile in less than 20 minutes or they’ll be trapped  inside the park. Once they see you go, they exit the park and the B and C trains are right there at 86 and CPW. They could also do this in the 102 transverse (instead of 86) and the trains are at 103 when they exit the park on the west side, but the time to cross over from east to west is a lot less, but totally doable if they zippityzip. C trains go downtown, so they can head over to 14th st, though there is a bit of a walk from 8th ave to 11th avenue, so if the C train shows up fast, I’d say yes, otherwise, just keep going to Chambers and head over to the West Side Highway to cheer. A cab would be messy as traffic will not be open in many streets so the trains are better! Once they see you in Chambers, the can head over to meet you at the Finish (find a corner to meet up ahead of time, it’ll be CROWDED!) or at some brunch spot! Call ahead to see if they are open at 9 or 10 am so they can wait there and be warm! // When they’re cheering, it’s important to know exactly on what side of the street they’ll be so YOU can spot them (they won’t be able to spot you!). Send them with something big: a flag, a sign, balloons, huge funny hat, etc. Tell them to get comfy shoes, really warm clothes and bring food. It will be an early and long morning for them too!  //  If you need an extra push, ask for help!! FORCE all your friends to come watch you. Ask them “where are you going to be?”. Then tell them a time you’ll go through there, give or take 10 minutes, and decide if they’ll be runner’s Left or Right. Then make a little-tiny list you can carry in your pocket (Example: 102nd st, John, left / 86st st, Mike, right, etc.) in order or appearance, put clear tape all over it so it won’t get sweaty and basically go from John, to Mike, to etc… Let them pull you along the course and that’ll break the course in parts, instead of think “AH, I gotta go all the way to the end of the island, ugh” you’ll think: “I am just going to 102nd st, to see John, then we’ll see!“

Oh, and have them download the NYC Half mobile app (will probably be ready to download a week or two before the race) where they can track you and a few more runners at a time.

Get yourself the custom pace bracelet I created for this race based on the race strategy below.

If you need a short run before the race, go to Central Park. You’ll see many of your race-buddies and get to enjoy the best place in the world as a runner.

Find a mantra, or two, you might really need them. I write them in my hand where I am sure I will see it.

RACE LOGISTICS

Memorize your Start Schedule (or write in your hand like I do)

nyc half start times

Getting to the start/Baggage Check. The easiest way to get there is always a cab or running there of course, but if you have to take the train, take anything to 57th or 59th streets or any of the trains that leave you close to Central Park South/59th st. You will have to enter the park through Sixth or Fifth Avenue. Check the Start Map carefully.  Before entering, check your (nyrr provided plastic) bag outside of the park (on 59th Street, between Fifth and Seventh Avenues). Give yourself ample time (as this is weekend schedule) and check  MTA for weekend alerts, or try any subway app: make sure your train is running! Also, if you are not sure, I am 100% confident that if you just head over to the closest train stop, you’ll see someone you could follow to the Start 😉 // Kiss your loved ones buh-bye, they won’t be allowed anywhere close to the Start!

During the race, the course WILL be crowded, so PLEASE, if you need to stop for a walk or move sideways for water, please please please signal with your arms, and look around behind you before you make any moves, DO NOT just stop or go sideways. Be considerate of your fellow runners who could trip! The good side of having all these people around you that you’ll always have someone to run with, pace off, or follow when you’re tired. Pick them up when you feel strong, encourage them when they need it, and keep your eyes peeled for anyone who might need help!!

There will be Water/Gatorade around every mile or so, so if you miss one, don’t stress. Don’t go for the first table as everyone will do that. There’s many tables: go to the last one. You’ll find the portapottties where the water is, so keep an eye out and don’t dart sideways! There will be Gels at mile 7.5, on 42nd street between 10th and 11th avenues, on your right.

Think about joining an official pacer from the NYRR Pace Team, they’ll be wearing their signature white and blue striped singlets,  and will run even splits through all 13.1 miles of the United Airlines NYC Half. Pacers will lead runners to finish times at every five-minute interval from 1:20 to 2:15, and will also offer a 2:30 pace group. You can visit the Running Lab at the United Airlines NYC Half Experience Presented by New Balance to meet the pacers and learn where to find them on race day (I will be there Saturday morning, so come find me and say Hi!).

RACE STRATEGY

Here is the official course map: NYRR New York City Half Marathon course map

Custom pace bracelet, if you can’t remember any of the info below

nyc half course elevation

Elevation profile from my 2014 race, same as all the last ones of course. elevation is the red line.

This is an easy race to figure out. Basically, you have two parts: the undulating Central Park (first half) and the straight and flat run to the finish (the second half). Which makes it a perfect course to NEGATIVE PR!!!!

Break the race in parts, device a plan, and stick to it no matter what. Plan for negative splits: keep it strong and conservative throughout the park and ram it home once you leave the park. It’s super simple. I am an average runner and have negative split in this race every time. Basically: you have to believe in yourself and wait for the time of your life.

This is how I like to break this race down. In 4 parts.

Part 1 – Mile 1: HOLD YOUR FREAKING HORSES!!!!

There are 2.5 hills in this race: Cat Hill as soon as you start, Harlem Hill(s) (THREE blips) at 3.5, and a last small one going up the Battery Park Underpass at the end (this one counts as just half a hill). Cat Hill and the Tunnel are short and tiny but annoying because of their locations right at the start and right at the end…! People get excited at the start, and take off like maniacs… if this is going to work, we have to hold it in, climb the hill carefully and let everyone (and their grandmother) pass. You’ll see. Tell yourself: Yes, go ahead and go. I’ll catch you later when your quads are screaming, buh-bye

nyc half marathon course strategy part (1)

Cat Hill is 0.25 long (in miles), or 400 meters long; but it has a 49′ rise (average grade of 3.7%)

Part 2 – Mile 2 to 6: EASY, LIGHT, SMOOTH

The park is a string of undulating hills, but after Cat Hill you have the longest flat stretch, almost a half mile (heaven…!) so, use that to get on a rhythm, find your legs and a pacer. It’ll be crowded so I doubt you’ll be able to utilize the tangents well but at least avoid tripping, did I mention it’s gonna be a bit CROWDED?

Your goal for the first half of the race is to exit the park in one piece, feeling strong, to let it all unfold in the second part of the race. Exercise all your patience here and keep yourself in good checks to not let yourself go. If you are running “hard-comfortable”, you are doing it right.

nyc half marathon course strategy part (2)

Blip 1 in the course profile is 0.36 of a mile and a rise of ’33. You exit the park for two blocks, go around the Frederick Douglass Circle and come right back downhill. Then you -re-enter the park, make a right, and start the climb for Blip 2: Harlem Hill!!! HH is 0.32 long but it has a 84′ rise (average grade of 4.4%). Fun times. As soon as you finish the downhill on the back end of HH, there’s another climb, Blip 3 is 0.60 of a mile and has a rise of ’58. Blip 1 is short and mild, blip 3 is longer but mild as it’s stretched out, but watch up for Harlem Hill, short and UPWARDS!

Part 3 – Mile 7 to 10: IT’S ON!

nyc half marathon course strategy part (3)

This is where I like to stretch out my legs: the race starts HERE. From now on it’s flat and steady. When you exit the park you’ll have a lot of space, cheering and excitement to carry you on, and as soon as you turn right on 42nd, you’ll be rolling down. Hit the gas.

Note: Something about Times Square can make you or your gps go crazy. Ooops. No, you’re not running a 3:20 mile. I set my gps watch to manual and I lap it myself when I see the mile markers. Way safer!

Part 4 –  Mile 11 or 12 to 13.1: YOLO

ALL. HELL. BREAKS. LOOSE.

That is all. Go Crazy. Bring it in. Drop the Hammer.

nyc half marathon course strategy part (4)

As you can see in the map, I obv didn’t have gps on the tunnel, and you won’t either. But it won’t matter, when you get to mile 10, or 11 or 12 and you know you’re ready to start your KICK, you go. Keep in mind there’s a little climb out of the tunnel, short but steep, and then there’s not a lot left to go. Hopefully you’ll see the 800 meters sign if you’re focused but who is at my that point? It’ll seem like forever but once you’re out of the tunnel the finish line is RIGHT THERE.

… then… 

Walk, get your medal, take pictures, get your stuff, find your friends/family, go get brunch (there are many good places downtown), enjoy, stretch, ice bath, rest, eat more, sleeeeeep! Tell everyone about your race, plan your next race, have a congratulatory donut. Or at least that’s what I am planning to do!!!

I’d suggest checking the Finish Map also (mostly if you want to meet up with people afterwards).

Also, post race, if you’re a NYRR Member:  Join NYRR at the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub after the 2017 United Airlines NYC Half for complimentary finisher medal engraving!

Sunday, March 19: 11:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Monday, March 20: 11:00 a.m.—6:00 p.m.

Bring your NYRR Member Number. Can’t make it Sunday or Monday? Send a proxy to have your medal engraved; they’ll just need your NYRR Member Number.

Questions?? Anything to add? Anything you want to go over? Lmk in the comments below!

Photos race reports, go here for all of them, or here for the 2015 NYC Half, 2014 NYC Half  or 2013 NYC Half.

Get the custom pace bracelet maker, so you can plan your splits and stick to them!

NYRR United NYC Half Marathon course map

The official United New York City Half Marathon website.

—-Comment happily: you won’t be asked to create an account!

2015 New York City Marathon EXPO pictures

Oct30

Juan and I went to the expo yesterday, Thursday, to avoid the masses. I always go on Thursdays, it’s less crazy this is post is mostly pictures to give you a break from all the reading!

tcs new york city marathon expo nyrr nyc (5) tcs new york city marathon expo nyrr nyc (7)tcs new york city marathon expo nyrr nyc (4) tcs new york city marathon expo nyrr nyc (2) tcs new york city marathon expo nyrr nyc (3) tcs new york city marathon expo nyrr nyc (1)

After that, we raced home. I had had a looooooong day at the office, preparing for this weekend’s marathon. Friday I am hosting and MCing my team’s dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square and I have all these other commitments for race weekend. Busy busy. TIRED. See you on the other side? how was YOUR expo trip?

Oh, and this one from the pavillion!!

2015-10-28 08.01.56

Fun weekend: Bronx X 2!

Sep29

I know I don’t post nearly at all as much as I used to but here goes a tiny update.

Saturday

I did my longest run since May!!! I just have stopped running long, so the longest runs I’ll do might be 7 or maaaaaaybe 8 miles. The Brooklyn Half was the longest I had run since! HA. I decided I’d try to do 10 or 12 so I joined the JackRabbit group, out of the Upper East Side, how convenient, as they had a 12 mile run to the High Bridge. I had seen it in pictures and I knew it had just reopened but I don’t go to the Bronx ever so I thought it’d be the perfect run. Kent took us out at a FUN (perfect) pace and the group (8? 10?) managed to stay together throughout! It was awesome. Check how cool it looks!

Me running off in the bridge!

Me running off in the bridge!

View from the top, the city in the distance

View from the top, the city in the distance

the group, posing before heading back. and thinking of a GU probably

the group, posing before heading back. and thinking of a GU probably

high bridge bronx new york park run (1)

We then run back. I was EXHAUSTED. 13 feels like 20 when you’re not used to it.  Or forget to bring gels or have any breakfast. Still, success!

Sunday

It was the Bronx 10 mile and 5K. EVERYONE I knew was racing, including my husband so we woke up early, got the BX in no time and I set out to cheer. I am a pro by now. I had SOOO much fun.

my cheering partner, Batkid. We had this thing where I'd yell: Batman High Five for extra power to the finish and things like that. Everyone got a kick out of it.

my cheering partner, Batkid. We had this thing where I’d yell: Batman High Five for extra power to the finish and things like that. Everyone got a kick out of it.

the megaphone has a siren option, which I loved!! A break to my voice ;-)

the megaphone has a siren option, which I loved!! A break to my voice 😉

my awesome friend Allison from Harlem Run. Super Cool Wonder Woman. On TIPTOES, Allison!??!??!! you're already taller than me!

my awesome friend Allison from Harlem Run. Super Cool Wonder Woman. On TIPTOES, Allison!??!??!! you’re already taller than me!

Caught the husband on the course, both times, wohoooooo!!!! HOT!

Caught the husband on the course, both times, wohoooooo!!!! HOT! And there’s Sid Howard on the left!

Almost unthinkable that I was in the same spots, twice in 24 hours, but that’s life… that was my weekend! How was yours???

2015 NYC Half Marathon: ALL the pictures

Mar19

Just because, sometimes, when you’re having CRAZY FUN, it shows. And, instantly, I see myself shell $70 to pay for all the pics. I didn’t buy anything at the expo (cause I need nothing, maybe an extra room to store running stuff!!!) so let’s say I am even.

Also, who would have thought that running faster makes you look better?!??!?! Anyway, I have no idea what I am doing in some of these, like pointing…? who knows. I have to say, I had more than 70 photos from this event and it was hard to shrink the selection down to 25. Here’s my faves!

(the whole race report, for once really worth reading, is here)

Race Report: NYC Half 2015 – running naked

Mar16

Well, the NYC Half happened. Again. For the 7th time for me. And I am VERY happy about it. Such a huge learning opportunity!!!I love that every race is something completely different from what I expect… (sometimes!)

Where I Was: I wasn’t sure it was great, but I did a 5K two weeks before in 7:18 pace, and a 4 Miler in early February in 7:35 pace. My last halves were in October, there were 2 (1:43 and 1:44), plus add the winter training, I figured I’d be around 1:45 or 1:43 if ALL went well. 1:45 is 8 pace, and given I had done 7:35 in the 4 miler, that seemed like a stretch…

my #unitednychalf nails. crazy ready.

nyc half nails. logo and all, crazy ready

The Expo: I almost forgot to tell you all about the expo and skipped all over this: it was in a new location (in a part a of town I usually ignore, yuk) and it was big! I am so so sick of the tight tiny expos, I loved that there was space to walk and breathe, and many exhibitors and activities. The only complain I have is that the lighting was so bad it gave me a headache. So weird.

Juan, me and Flor getting our bibs with a giant medal

Juan, me and Flor getting our bibs with a giant medal. Click if you want to make any of this a LOT bigger

2015-03-15 05.15.10

35 degres is bikini weather after the winter we had here, puh-lease!

Race Morning: Juan and I were in wave one (7:30 am start) so we got there around 6:30 to get to baggage, last minute potty trip, and get to the corral before the 7:10 close time.I was the first person in corral 3. Seriously, so early, but I rather sit there, knowing all is done than stress myself stooopid. I can’t handle rushing right before a race anymore. At my age, I can’t be bothered with rushing or stressing so I woke up EXTRA early.

murtaugh too old for that shit

we actually run into him a couple of weeks ago so he must live in the UES, York Ave. I guess, I have no idea.  Juan almost had a heart attack.

In the Corral: That’s when I decided to turn on the watch, get gps signal and some music. Ummm [email protected]@#@#[email protected]%_)[email protected]_#)@_)[email protected])!_! to say the least. My watch (and also mp3 player, I use the same device for both) was NOT CHARGED. I freaked out a bit like a maniac. How on earth am I going to know if I am going too fast??? I don’t think I’ve ever run a race naked (no watch!!!) or since… EVER!!! Ugh. Crap. Kept freaking out.  First, I won’t have any pace information, second, I’d have to race with no music?!?!?! Third, I don’t want to be carrying this watch around 13.1 miles for no reason. I am not gonna lie, I threw a little fit.

My problem is, unlike everyone else, I tend to start super slow and go crazy later. I need to know if I am going too fast (to slow myself down!) in the first miles!!!! I know, I am not normal.

I put the headphones in my back pocket, decided not to go back to baggage to leave it, and, for some very strange reason, I knew this would be a good thing. I would miss the music, but I knew it’d be a great challenge for me. I know how to pace, now just do it.

A few minutes before the gun, my friend Patricia shows up and Juan goes up to his first corral. I wasn’t running with Patricia, as she’s way faster than me (she’d end up doing 1:35). Bye hon, I’ll be back here by myself, with no pace info or music. Pffff. Great.

Race ON: This post, for the first time ever, will not have any mile splits (can we even handle this??), or any of that. I made sure I looked at the clock when I started and it read 1:40 (I think), so I thought I could subtract from the next mile markers. That did NOT work out. When I got to mile 1 the clock said 19:20 and I had NO IDEA what that mean. I gave up instantly forever and just kept running.

Mile 1, past Cathill, I know was fast. I could tell I was going fast, but hey, who knows??? Sometimes a 10 minute mile seems fast!!!! Mile 2 was uneventful, and on mile 3, one of my favorite things: an out and back!!! Is there anything more fun in a race than seeing the people who are running ahead and behind you??>? The only right answer is NO, people! SO much fun. I saw my husband and yelled at SO many people, I am sure I was ruining a lot of people’s jams around me with my constant yelling! Mile 3 back into the park to the lovely hellish Harlem Hill. That’s when something hit me. Right ahead of me was the 1:40 pace group. I knew the pacer for that group, Anthony, and he had told me he was in wave 1 corral 5, so he had started after me and had already passed me, so I guessed I was about 1:43 or 1:42 here, just a dumb guess. I was SO tempted to sneak behind him and chase him, the pace didn’t seem so scary, but I mentally screamed at myself and virtually slapped myself. NO. LET HIM GO. I made sure I stayed back, bye Anthony, byyyyyyye!

On Mile 4 I looked for a few friends who I figured would be watching here (so I could toss my watch!!!!) but I didn’t see anyone. I was running mostly by myself and without the music so it was hard to settle on a rhythm and relax. I haven’t learned how to do that. I was breathing hard and it’s quite loud and annoying, even to me (sorry everyone!). I really wanted to relax, but I just couldn’t.

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Soon I am leaving the park and I have no idea HOW IT ALL WENT SO FAST! Not pace wise, because I had no idea how fast or slow I was running, but the first 5 miles are usually super hard controlling my speed and my willingness to start going a bit faster. I was out of the park in a jiffy and I couldn’t believe it. This is probably the fastest race I ever had (nooo, it would not be a PR!).

Times Square was amazing. Seriously. I was having way too much fun!!! I saw everyone there. Oh how much I enjoyed it… DON’T BELIEVE ME, JUST WATCH!!!

Marathonfoto: just take all my money and shut up!

Anyway, this is when I would start pushing the pace. Thing is, I felt like I had been pushing the pace all along. Had I started too fast and would soon die off, or did I go the tiny bit harder that I could handle if I didn’t know how fast I was going??? So complicated. And who knew, really? A few times I felt like asking people around how fast we were going, but, you know, whatever!

42nd street is always SO MUCH FUN. I saw Ben taking pictures, Annette cheering, people who I didn’t know yelling my name. The whole race was like that.  I know this is isn’t true (maybe, not really) but I felt like all NYC was out there to cheer on me. I did. I took that to heart too. And I pushed the pace.

Soon is the turnaround to hell. That’s what I call it when you have to hit the gas and not look back.  We’re getting close to the West Side Highway and I see Anthony again with the 1:40 stick. Ummmm. How did this happen??? They can’t be falling back? I must be pushing too hard. Maybe? I decided to stay behind them. Then, soon, when I was right on their heels, I decided I’d just sit behind them, and let them figure out the pacing. I was sure now I was ready to hold whatever 1:40 pace was. Theeeeeeeen, I said hello to Anthony, and I just FREAKING KEPT GOING…

what?

I even thought of asking him what pace was 1:40. I didn’t. I went too fast to talk much to him. I just kept going.

WHAT??!?!?!

So that, I kept going. I told him I’d blow up soon and he’d pass me in a mile or two. I hit the gas.

I just focused on getting to Mile 11 where the next Whippets cheering section was (I had already seen Scott and some Whippets on Times Square and more Whippets at the gel station). I knew Michelle, Tessa, Atsede would be there. I just had to get there. Soon enough, there they were, all yelling and cheering!!!!

Mile 11, Mile 12, I felt like I was flying. At least my hair was!

The Finish: then the tunnel. AY: I was done. I had a side stitch, I was dry-heaving and I felt like I was going to either throw up or pass out. I felt nauseous. WHAT?!??! Just relax and keep going. I started telling myself to just hang on. Hang on. Hang on.

I remembered from last year, after the tunnel we had just 3-4 blocks. This year I knew, after the tunnel, we had two blocks left, and two blocks left again. BUT OMG I had no idea there was still half mile to go after we exited the tunnel before we turned. I remember there was a hard  left off the tunnel last year. Not this year. I kept looking forward and I couldn’t see where on earth we were turning left…!!! That was the LONGEST part of the race. That half a mile, to me, was longer than the other 12.6 (or whatever the math is!). I didn’t have much to sprint with but I tried. Someone yelled my name. I smiled. I looked up. I crossed the finish line. I didn’t have a watch to stop but I had a nose to wipe, that thing was a fossett during the whole race!!!! YUCK. And there was Mary Wittenberg and I have to say hello with this sweaty-nose stuff? Ay dios!

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Well, the clock said 1:41 something, but who knows what my time is. I saw Juan right away, then Richie, then Daphne, then Caitlin, then Cara… like 3000 of my friends and team mates!!!!!!

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2015-03-15 14.52.31

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Richie is so special to me!!!! Not only is he an overall amazing and cool guy, he photographed our proposal and wedding!! Like how cool is to have a team mate like that?!?!?!?!??! HUH??????

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there’s Anthony, the 1:40 pacer and major Ironman superstar.

Juan and I grabbed our bags, went to the side to fully change (yes, I took off my sweaty bra and all) into clean/dry clothes and all of a sudden I realized I had no idea what my time was. I had a twinge of an idea I had been around 1:40 or 1:42 or 1:44 but really, I had no idea. Juan got to it first and told me: 1:39:26.

WOW.

That’s quite different from 1:45. Or from the 1:50 I got last year… Or the 1:43 and 1:44 I did in October.

It is still not a PR, which is 1:37 from this same race in 2013, but I was soooooooooooooo happy, I think I cried a little. Quite in disbelief, I got a little teary. We’re coming back. Slowly. It’s happening. Finally!

Stats Time:

Finish time: 1:39:26 Average Pace: 7:36

Previous PR: 1:37:35 From: March, 2013

Age Grading: 68.03% 

Overall Place: 2063 of 19,455

Gender Place: 447 of 10,150

Age Place: 60 of 1639

This is very good-looking. I like the 68% percent there, given I am changing age groups in ONE week. I’ll be 40 next week, so, being 60th out of 1639, when I am at the bottom of my AG is not so shabby!

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We then went to the Whippets Party, stayed there until around 11 am then headed uptown to Bareburger, Juan’s favorite place that we never go to, home, shower, and OMG I was so tired the rest of the day, Juan had to carry me from the couch to the bed and all that. I was destroyed. But happy.

Then I saw that the results had 5K splits!!! Wohooooooooooooooo!! some data!

My first 5K was an average 7:44 pace. Remember, overall pace was 7:36, so seems like I started a bit slower, so, GREAT. the second 5K, where most of the hills are, was slower: average pace of 7:52. So far, so good. The third 5K was 7:21 and the 4th 5K was 7:20. So, seems like a negative split and run well without a friiiiging clue. Pinch me.

More and more pictures of the race, here

20 Tickets to Running Movie “MCFARLAND, USA”, the winners!

Feb11

mcfarland

And the winners to get tickets to the new film MCFARLAND, USA (trailer here) are….

giveway mcfarland use movie review (1) giveway mcfarland use movie review (2) giveway mcfarland use movie review (3) giveway mcfarland use movie review (4) giveway mcfarland use movie review (5) giveway mcfarland use movie review (6) giveway mcfarland use movie review (7) giveway mcfarland use movie review (8) giveway mcfarland use movie review (9) giveway mcfarland use movie review (10)

The screening is on Wednesday, February 18th at the Regal E-Walk (42nd st and 8th Ave) at 7 pm. Make sure you are free that day, and email me your full name by Friday, Feb 11. CONGRATS!

Movie premieres on February 20th, and here is the movie’s website

New York City Half Marathon Tips, Course Strategy and Logistics!

Jan29

You know the “don’t wear anything new on race day” and all the basics… now, let’s do the United NYC Half Marathon as well as we can. I have done this race 7 times so far -from 2:06 in its first year, 2006, to 1:37 in 2013, and the last two, and I keep running into people who haven’t raced it and have lots of questions (post in the comments section below if you have any questions not covered here!).

And in case you want to see photos and read my race reports, go here for all of them, or, here is the 2015 NYC Half report, here is 2014 NYC Half and 2013 NYC Half. Also, download the custom pace bracelet, I created for this race based on the race strategy below.

PRE RACE LOGISTICS

Make a marathon list of what you’ll need a week or two before and sort it all by stages, here is a Marathon Packing List to start with. Whether, you’re travelling or not, get everything in the list ready as soon as possible. Start prepping 2 weeks out.

Plan your nutrition waaaay ahead. You can buy gels at the expo if necessary, but get bagels/oatmeal/bananas and whatever you need for race day the day before as there will not be a lot of delis open at 4, 5, or 6 am. Some may be, but not a lot.

If you need any last minute thing, you can buy most stuff at the expo/bib pickup (don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your reg form –download it from your NYRR profile they will be ready early March, and photo identification) or here is an organized list with all the running stores by area.

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we all look like weirdos anyway, wear old stuff you have to discard to the start of the race!

Prep some cheap or throwaway clothes to the start. Find a mylar blanket from your last half or marathon (and don’t throw away the one you’ll get at the finish here!). You will need them until the last minute in the corral (I wear one as pants with tape and one as a cape). I wear my throwaway cardigan or a sweater (cut in the front for easy peeling, kept it in p

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what throwaway knee-high socks as leg warmers look like when you forget to take them off (2015 NYC Half)

lace with a safety pin!) during the first mile too! Go to the dollar store and get knee-high socks, cut the foot and you’ll have throwaway arm warmers! I keep half of it on until I warm up, it can be windy and cold at the start!

Gear/What to wear… the weather can be anything from 50s to 20s so prepare (aka, train in) a few options and decide the day before. Or that morning. Be smart, and make sure you can peel off layers comfortably. If you don’t want to carry your phone, at least carry a $20 bill, a metrocard, and an ID with you, just in case. My rule is if it’s over 40 degrees, I do singlet and shorts (pics from last year). Last year it was 42 degrees, 60% humidity, wind 10-18 mph (2014 was 31 degrees, 2013 was 30 degrees). But depending on the wind/humidity/lack of sleep/whatever, you can add hat, arm sleeves, leg warmers, etc. Always add things you can get rid of easily and won’t miss. If you’re not sure about a layer, keep in mind that once you leave the park and get to the West Side Highway, it can get a little windy there. Check the wind direction in the morning!

Best tool to have at any race: your name on your shirt, do not even question this!! If you don’t want your name, write something funny you’ll want people to scream to you all over the course. This is a big race and there will be a lot of spectators along the course and having them scream your name will make your race 100 times better. If you don’t want to ruin your gear, cut the letters our of duct tape (like I do!) and voila, they’ll peel right off!

Headphones or not? If you are used to racing with headphones, bring them. I sometimes leave them on (with the music off), and turn them on only when necessary. Central Park will be CROWDED, seriously crowded, so it’s smart to keep the music off, or very low so you can hear people around you. Once you are in the West Side Highway, and it gets a little monotonous, go for it. You’ll have a lot of people cheering and you don’t want to miss it, but if you do have the music on later on, still make sure you can still hear what is happening around you!!!!

Place your spectators in spots where you’ll need encouragement (quite probably on the long stretch along the West Side Highway).  If they are not the adventurous kind, they could see you anywhere in the park, always on your right, and then head over to the finish. Otherwise, there is an insane amount of combination of spots they can see you at. Study the map with them and calculate how much time they’ll have to get from one spot to the other based on your speed. For example, the 1st location would usually be in Central Park, east side, around 85 st, on your left (they need to be on the inside part of the park), that would be your mile 1. After they see you, they walk across the park (it won’t be more than a 10 minute walk) around the Great Lawn to West 86th, where they can see you again at mile 4.5! They have to be on the runner’s right (the outside of the park lane). Elite runners will be there in 20 minutes, and you can tell them how long it’d take you to do 4.5 miles! So, they have to hurry and cross over the quarter mile in less than 20 minutes or they’ll be trapped  inside the park. Once they see you go, they exit the park and the B and C trains are right there at 86 and CPW. They could also do this in the 102 transverse (instead of 86) and the trains are at 103 when they exit the park on the west side, but the time to cross over from east to west is a lot less, but totally doable if they zippityzip. C trains go downtown, so they can head over to 14th st, though there is a bit of a walk from 8th ave to 11th avenue, so if the C train shows up fast, I’d say yes, otherwise, just keep going to Chambers and head over to the West Side Highway to cheer. A cab would be messy as traffic will not be open in many streets so the trains are better! Once they see you in Chambers, the can head over to meet you at the Finish (find a corner to meet up ahead of time, it’ll be CROWDED!) or at some brunch spot! Call ahead to see if they are open at 9 or 10 am so they can wait there and be warm! // When they’re cheering, it’s important to know exactly on what side of the street they’ll be so YOU can spot them (they won’t be able to spot you!). Send them with something big: a flag, a sign, balloons, huge funny hat, etc. Tell them to get comfy shoes, really warm clothes and bring food. It will be an early and long morning for them too!  //  If you need an extra push, ask for help!! FORCE all your friends to come watch you. Ask them “where are you going to be?”. Then tell them a time you’ll go through there, give or take 10 minutes, and decide if they’ll be runner’s Left or Right. Then make a little-tiny list you can carry in your pocket (Example: 102nd st, John, left / 86st st, Mike, right, etc.) in order or appearance, put clear tape all over it so it won’t get sweaty and basically go from John, to Mike, to etc… Let them pull you along the course and that’ll break the course in parts, instead of think “AH, I gotta go all the way to the end of the island, ugh” you’ll think: “I am just going to 102nd st, to see John, then we’ll see!”

Oh, and have them download the 2016 NYC Half mobile app (will probably be ready to download a week or two before the race) where they can track you and a few more runners at a time.

Get yourself the custom pace bracelet, I created for this race based on the race strategy below.

If you need a short run before the race, go to Central Park. You’ll see many of your race-buddies and get to enjoy the best place in the world as a runner.

Find a mantra, or two, you might really need them. I write them in my hand where I am sure I will see it.

RACE LOGISTICS

There will be many starts! Last year there were waves starting from 7:30 to 8:30 (this will be updated soon) and in early march you will get a registration card with your bib/wave number and start time.

Getting to the start/Baggage Check. The easiest way to get there is always a cab or running there of course, but if you have to take the train, take anything to 57th or 59th streets or any of the trains that leave you close to Central Park South/59th st. You will have to enter the park through Sixth or Fifth Avenue. Before entering, check your (nyrr provided plastic) bag outside of the park (on 59th Street, between Fifth and Seventh Avenues). Give yourself ample time (as this is weekend schedule) and check  MTA for weekend alerts, or try hopstop: make sure your train is running! Also, if you are not sure, I am 100% confident that if you just head over to the closest train stop, you’ll see someone you could follow to the Start 😉 // Kiss your loved ones buh-bye, they won’t be allowed anywhere close to the Start!

The race WILL be crowded, so PLEASE, if you need to stop for a walk or move sideways for water, please please please signal with your arms, and look around behind you before you make any moves, DO NOT just stop or go sideways. Be considerate of your fellow runners who could trip! The good side of this is that you’ll always have someone to run with, pace of, or follow when you’re tired. Pick them up when you feel strong, encourage them when they need it, and keep your eyes peeled for anyone who might need help!!

There will be Water/Gatorade around every mile or so, so if you miss one, don’t stress. Don’t go for the first table as everyone will do that. There’s many tables: go to the last one. You’ll find the portapottties where the water is, so keep an eye out and don’t dart sideways! There will be Gels at mile 7.5, on 42nd street between 10th and 11th avenues, on your right.

RACE STRATEGY

Here is the official course map: NYRR New York City Half Marathon course map

Custom pace bracelet, if you can’t remember any of the info below

nyc half course elevation

Elevation profile from my 2014 race, same as all the last ones of course. elevation is the red line.

This is an easy race to figure out. Basically, you have two parts: the undulating Central Park (first half) and the straight and flat run to the finish (the second half). Which makes it a perfect course to NEGATIVE PR!!!!

Break the race in parts, device a plan, and stick to it no matter what. Plan for negative splits: keep it strong and conservative throughout the park and ram it home once you leave the park. It’s super simple. I am an average runner and have negative split in this race every time. Basically: you have to believe in yourself and wait for the time of your life.

This is how I like to break this race down. In 4 parts.

Part 1 – Mile 1: HOLD YOUR FREAKING HORSES!!!!

There are 2.5 hills in this race: Cat Hill as soon as you start, Harlem Hill at 3.5, and going up the Battery Park Underpass at the end (this one counts as just half a hill). Cat Hill and the Tunnel are short and tiny but annoying because of their locations right at the start and right at the end…! People get excited at the start, and take off like maniacs; if this is going to work, we have to hold it in, climb the hill carefully and let everyone (and their grandmother) pass. You’ll see. Tell yourself: Yes, go ahead and go. I’ll catch you later when your quads are screaming, buh-bye

nyc half marathon course strategy part (1)

Cat Hill is 0.25 long (in miles), or 800 meters long; but it has a 49′ rise (average grade of 3.7%)

Part 2 – Mile 2 to 6: EASY, LIGHT, SMOOTH

The park is a string of undulating hills, but after Cat Hill you have the longest flat stretch, almost a half mile (heaven…!) so, use that to get on a rhythm, find your legs and a pacer. It’ll be crowded so I doubt you’ll be able to utilize the tangents well but at least avoid tripping, did I mention it’s gonna be a bit CROWDED?

Your goal for the first half of the race is to exit the park in one piece, feeling strong, to let it all unfold in the second part of the race. Exercise all your patience here and keep yourself in good checks to not let yourself go. If you are running “hard-comfortable”, you are doing it right.

nyc half marathon course strategy part (2)

Blip 1 in the course profile is 0.36 of a mile and a rise of ’33. You exit the park for two blocks, go around the Frederick Douglass Circle and come right back downhill. Then you enter the park, make a left, and start the climb for Blip 2: Harlem Hill!!! HH is 0.32 long but it has a 84′ rise (average grade of 4.4%). Fun times. As soon as you finish the downhill on the back end of HH, there’s another climb, Blip 3 is 0.60 of a mile and has a rise of ’58. Blip 1 is short and mild, blip 3 is longer but mild as it’s stretched out, but watch up for Harlem Hill, short and UPWARDS!

Part 3 – Mile 7 to 10: IT’S ON!

nyc half marathon course strategy part (3)

This is where I like to stretch out my legs: the race starts HERE. From now on it’s flat and steady. When you exit the park you’ll have a lot of space, cheering and excitement to carry you on, and as soon as you turn right on 42nd, you’ll be rolling down. Hit the gas.

Note: Something about Times Square can make you or your gps go crazy. Ooops. No, you’re not running a 3:20 mile. I set my gps watch to manual and I lap it myself when I see the mile markers. Way better!

Part 4 –  Mile 11 or 12 to 13.1: YOLO

ALL. HELL. BREAKS. LOOSE.

That is all. Go Crazy. Bring it in. Drop the Hammer.

nyc half marathon course strategy part (4)

As you can see in the map, I obv didn’t have gps on the tunnel, and you won’t either. But it won’t matter, when you get to mile 10, or 11 or 12 and you know you’re ready to start your KICK, you go. Keep in mind there’s a little climb out of the tunnel, short but steep, and then there’s about 0.66 of a mile to go. You’ll see the 800 meters sign if you’re focused but who is at that point? It’ll seem like forever but eventually you make a left, then another left and the finish line is RIGHT THERE. So don’t wait to see it to sprint and wait a few seconds!

… then… 

Walk, get your medal, take pictures, get your stuff, find your friends/family, go get brunch (there are many good places downtown), enjoy, stretch, ice bath, rest, eat more, sleeeeeep! Tell everyone about your race, plan your next race, have a congratulatory donut. Or at least that’s what I am planning to do, even if this might be my slowest half!!

Questions?? Anything to add? Anything you want to go over? Lmk in the comments below!

Photos race reports, go here for all of them, or here for the 2015 NYC Half, 2014 NYC Half  or 2013 NYC Half.

Get the custom pace bracelet maker, so you can plan your splits and stick to them!

NYRR United NYC Half Marathon course map

The official United New York City Half Marathon website.

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Giveaway: 20 Tickets to Running Movie “MCFARLAND, USA”

Jan26

Did you hear about Walt Disney Studios’ new film MCFARLAND, USA starring Kevin Costner? The film is based on the true story of high school cross country coach Jim White – watch the trailer!! It looks aaaaamazing (and funny!).

mcfarland

IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 20
Synopsis: Inspired by the 1987 true story, “McFarland, USA” follows novice runners from McFarland, an economically  challenged town in California’s farm-rich Central Valley, as they give their all to build a cross-country team under the direction of Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner), a newcomer to their predominantly Latino high school. Coach White and the McFarland students have a lot to learn about each other but when White starts to realize the boys’ exceptional running ability, things begin to change. Soon something beyond their physical gifts becomes apparent—the power of family relationships, their unwavering commitment to one another and their incredible work ethic. With grit and determination, the unlikely band of runners eventually overcomes the odds to forge not only a championship cross-country team but an enduring legacy as well. Along the way, Coach White realizes that his family finally found a place to call home and both he and his team achieve their own kind of American dream.

Here is the movie’s website

Disney is holding free advance screenings of the film in NYC for the running community and I would love to invite you to attend! We’ll raffle 10 tickets with a plus one! The screening is on Wednesday, February 18th at the Regal E-Walk (42nd st and 8th Ave) at 7 pm. Make sure you are free that day!

To enter to win two tickets, just comment below what is your favorite running movie, one entry per person, we’ll choose randomly, on February 11th, please share this giveaway!

Go for it! Good Luck!

2014 – Looking back and forward

Jan7

And there goes another year. It was quite full of experiences. There were a lot of great things, lots of love, friends, big family visits, all exciting, but not all sunny and happy, of course. I think it was one of those years when you’re supposed to grow a lot. Running-wise, it was probably my worst year; I lost motivation and failed miserably (but with dignity!) in most races. I don’t see that as a particularly bad thing, it’s a learning process and we can’t always win them all. And off-the-track, it was amazing. We just can’t have it all, can we? 2013 had been a big year. BIG BIG and busy. I met Juan in January, he moved and we got married by September, I changed jobs, PRed at the Half and got a few AG Wins. Then I got an ulcer and it all went downhill, including my 5th NYCM in a row (a blah 3:49). 2014 started weak…

January

You can imagine how weak it started that I didn’t even had resolutions or goals. I wrote tips to run in the winter because I was having issues with it myself! I was signed up for the NYC Half and the Boston Marathon and barely run. The cold just got to me and I lost a lot of will. Then, I fell again for the 3rd time in 5 weeks. A mess. I started to fear running. COLD and SCARY: little running. Total Miles: 77

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February

Juan and I showed up in the Runners World feature: Valentine’s Day “Romance Found on the Run“, and I was Women’s Running Blogger on the Run. But, we moved out of my studio into the penthouse.  I felt like I spent all winter hiding from the cold. I trained little. Very little. Total Miles: 87

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March

I had a slooow NYC Half but it was quite photogenic, fun, and really well run, progressive-splits run all the way! I was still struggling with motivation and goals. I also had a fun trip to Soulcycle. Total Miles: 105

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April

I had an ok Scotland 10K, though I had no interest in racing. Soon enough, we shipped to do the Boston Marathon, here are the Saturday pictures, which are awesome, and the Sunday pics, also awesome. And then there was the race (race report here), slow (3:48) and painful but oh so inspiring and uplifting. Glad I was there for the race (not for my legs or ego!). Total Miles: 80

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May

By now things were looking awful, I hadn’t PRed in a YEAR. A YEAR. So depressing. And I kept struggling with motivation. I decided to stop running completely. I still showed up to the Brooklyn Half Marathon, not knowing if I’ll even run it, and ended up having a great (and slow) time, seems like it’s all about the context for me! Total Miles: 41

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June

This month was also quite running-free and my parents came to visit so I was pretty entertained and didn’t even notice. Still, I did my 100th race, the Mini 10K, as they wanted to see me race in Central Park. This was literally painfully slow. I did run it with 2 friends but it was so slow, I didn’t even run that slow years ago when I started running! And, a fun picture. I took my parents to Bear Mountain and Connecticut and run a bit there, and a bit in the Fort Lauderdale heat, so cute. Stuff gets bad fast when you don’t run, how do non-runners live like that? Total Miles: 30

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July

In July, I saw Daphne, an old friend, running, and basically latched onto her. For Dear Life. I started training again. Good, because I was signed up for a few halfs and the NYC Marathon. Total Miles: 111

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August

Did some wonderful running in the always great Summer Streets, worked and cheered at the NYC Triathlon, then Juan had an awful bike crash in Central Park, which messed up our lives for a couple of months, poor thing. I barely left his side, only to train or work. The running was going fantastic though, fast long runs… who would have thought? Total Miles: 152

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September

I cheered at the 5th avenue mile and took lots of pictures, here and the pros here. The running was going great until we left for our delayed honeymoon in St Croix, there was no running there (but lots of snorkeling!) Total Miles: 116

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October

and we came back straight to racing! First, the, Grete’s Great Gallop, in 1:44. Still, slooow, but getting here. The week after, I did the Staten Island Half, in 1:43 (it’s a bit flatter). Consistency and good predictors for the marathon in 3 weeks. Then the week before the marathon, I did a 5 mile race in Central Park, the Poland Spring Marathon Kickoff, in 37:17, average pace of 7:28. Far from a PR. Still. By then it was a year and a half. But feeling GOOD. Total Miles: 132

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November

November was BUSY. I started it at the NYC Marathon Expo, which was all loads of crazy (even if smaller compared to previous years) and an Under Armour Party. Worked all week and then did the marathon, here is the race report of the #marathornado. I struggled to stay focused (in 3:49) so I just chilled, slowed down and tried to enjoy it. oh, whatever!!!! I ended up in the Asics  homepage, I tried one of those treadmill studios, I kept Juan company at the Rocky Balboa run and got many pictures, and I bought a million of really-cold weather running gear. And I raced some more!! I did the Race to Deliver 4 miler in Central Park, which I enjoyed, and then a 5K on Thanksgiving, where both Juan and I came first on our AG. Winning! November was rock solid! Total Miles: 88

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December

Seems like the year just picked up at the end! December was great too. I spent .0005 minutes detoxing from Thanksgiving and 2 weeks eating my way through Buenos Aires. Even though I was a bit overweight and slow, I did ok (21:04) in a hot 5K, where my 67 year old mom joined. What a thrill! As soon as I got back to NYC and got a reminder of what last year’s winter tasted like, I got a bit depressed. Somehow, I’ve been running quite a bit in December, even capping the year of with a holiday pictures themed run, and watching the year close with fireworks at the NYRR Midgnight Run. Total Miles: 87

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And there you have it. Though the running was QUITE blah, the rest was wonderful, so I’d say it’s a win! What awaits in 2015? I have no idea, not signed up for anything, thinking about not signing up for NYC Marathon this year, and maybe focusing on the half marathon. I am turning 40 in a few weeks and I am just trying not to push anything. Whatever will happen, WILL happen. Right?

A Class on a Treadmill, at Mile High Run Club (plus a GIVEAWAY for 10 winners!)

Nov12

Everyone that knows me, knows I don’t do classes, I hate treadmills (haven’t been on one in 4 years, when I flew off it), I hate working out, more so if it’s indoors. Not doing it. Remember when I tried spinning and hated it so much??? Ugh, I still shudder, ugh.

Enter the new thing in NYC, the “treadmill studios”. What? Yeah. There was an article in the NY  Times (so you know it’s serious) called Happily Going Nowhere fast. Interesting, I thought. As in: no way. Ms. Warner’s studio (the Mile High Run Club, there’s a few others) provides an indoor service for which busy New Yorkers seem to be desperate: a high-intensity interval workout in 45 minutes. The 4,000-square-foot space has ample room for 30 Woodway treadmills, which have a running surface like tank treads that is supposed to mimic the feel of trail running.

OMG. NO. SO NOT. Come on, it is a GYM, people!!! Just go outside. I know, I know, not everyone hates gyms as much as I do. But EVERYTHING in me just goes against the concept. Even if I hate the weather from October to May, I still can’t consider working out indoors a possibility, but I got an invite to try the Mile High Run Club (from our friends at Finish Line!) and, for the sake of ridiculous or investigation, I accepted. I managed to drag Juan with me, and met up Simon (an awesome Whippet team mate there who I LOVE) which made it a lot less scary.

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The Mile High Run Club, looks like a regular studio, nice, clean, with cute showers and lockers and I have to say, the name is genius. They have two types of classes. The Dash 28 and the Distance. I had no idea about any of that, but we were invited to the Dash28 Run.

We get there and there’s about 15-20 people, we change, we chat, we head in, voila!

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I had tried one of those Woodways before, the Eco Mill, that is curved up and doesn’t use electricity and is self-propelled. These were the flat version, but probably still better than your regular gym treadmill.

Soon, Debora, our Coach but also Founder of the MHRC, starts the class. She’s super nice! There’s low colored lights that keep changing and music. Nothing crazy loud but fun. And soon she says we’re gonna warm up. Oh God. Jumping Jacks and the rest is a messy blur. We did stuff like that for a few minutes and I remember being exhausted by the time we had to get up on the treadmill -I am toast. Can I just tell her I did the marathon a week ago and I am still exhausted and bail out??? coward, stay there!!!!

We get on the treadmills and she explains we’re going to warm up first. (I was sweating profusely already from the warm up). The treadmill stays on 1 incline for the easy parts. We then pick our intensity level from a little cheat chart there is on every machine, super easy, and when she says it’s lap one, you crank up the incline to 6 or what she says and start on your level one, whatever that is.

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Then she counts down, you reduce the speed again and the incline, slowrun for a bit, and then again up, to your level 2, whatever that is!

I really liked that you could manage your intensity level, which means you can head to the class with any friend and “workout together” even if you’re really not the same speed. Awesome. What I didn’t like: the treadmills shook a LOT!!!! I asked Debora if they all did that, and yes, I could see everyone was shaking. For someone like me, who hates treadmills, and quite probably I am was scared to death because I fell off one 4 years ago and broke some bones, and haven’t been on once since then, this was terrifying. I held onto the front bars the whole session. There goes my form!!!! Debora did say they were coming that day to affix them to the floor or something, so I’d definitely check back with them before I do this again.

Now, if you know me, you know I really HATE treadmills (hey, FALL, and 4 YEARS!!!) so I was ready to HATE HATE this. And you know, when I went to Soulcycle, I really hated it. Really hated it. Now, this felt very different. For once, my heart rate was high at all times. YEY. Like 180s and 190s. Second, I was running hard and up and because I was being told what to do, I didn’t worry much about keeping up pace (the machine does it for you!) or felt as hard as when  you tryi to pace yourself outdoors. I don’t know that this would become something I’d do (at $34 dollars a class, I’d definitely would think about it) a lot of but I think, during the winter months, sometimes I just really really want to sweat a lot, and wear little clothes, you know? I can definitely see this as something I’d do with my friends, instead of happy hour! Because I can go in there with ANY of my friends, not just the ones that are about the same speed as me or training for the same distance.

I really did like that I was pouring in 5 minutes. I was sweating the whole classe!! You can make the workout as hard or easy as you want! I also liked that Juan was by me and we kept upping our numbers to beat each other, ha, best motivation ever!!!

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After we finished all 4 intervals, I was dizzy and thought that would have thrown up if I had eaten anything that morning. I needed a minute. Oh and then more drills (like burpees and other “amazing” things) and some stretching. Loved the drills part too. She was ON POINT. And you know I am a little snob-drill!!

The total mileage was about 3:xx, and my heart rate was high up! I was so hungry after!!! Those drills, some with kettle bells, were a bit murderous for me, but so happy I didn’t run out!!!

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That’s the class after the session, there were smoothies and chia bars and coffee! YEY, I needed food and a shower FAST!

So, there’s my take. It’s interesting and I think I’d definitely go back, mostly in the winter. And I think it’s the best way to get “that”friend of yours who is not so sure they want to run yet, to try running! Sometimes a treadmill is less scary than the road and you can be right by their side 😉

And the Giveaway part!

You know we love to do a giveaway or two a week, so, here’s an awesome one! If you’re not following this blog, do so you don’t miss out on these opportunities! I’ll be selecting 10 winners to get a free class, to use before December 31st, randomly!

All you have to do to enter for a chance to win ONE of the TEN free classes. Each one of these gives you one shot at a win!

  • Like MHRC on Facebook, then comment below that you liked it and include your fbook name
  • Follow MHRC on Twitter, then comment below that you followed and include your twitter handle
  • Follow MHRC on Instagram, then comment below that you followed and include your Instagram handle

When you do any of those above, make sure you post/tweet about your best #runnershigh and tag MHRC

  • Subscribe to this blog
  • Like this post
  • Include a question about the experience

I’ll pick TEN winners randomly on November 24th, at noon. Good Luck!

2014 New York City Marathon EXPO Insanity (Mutai, KSwitzer, MiniMe, etc.) and the Under Armour Party with Nick Arciniaga and Chris McCormack

Oct31

Juan and I went to the expo yesterday, Thursday, to avoid the masses. this is post is mostly pictures to give you a break from all the reading!

Who shrinked my expo? What happened? It is SMALL. In a way, I left happier, because it could be a bit overwhelming and exhausting, but I was done in 30 minutes… what? So strange. Am I the only one?

Anyway the fun pictures.

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Juan told me to meet by the Javits statue. The what? I had been there a million times and I had never seen the Jacob Javits statue. that’s crazy right?

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This is the first time that they had bib entry open to the public. It was so strange and AMAZING! didn’t have to separate from my hubs who just wanted to shop around, which you had to do before (and then meet somewhere outside on the OTHER side) Loved that!

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Just because he reminded me of my husband, ok??

 

 

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OMG!!!! Geoffrey Mutai, we chatted for a bit, about Berlin mostly, sweeeeet sweeeeet man! AND SO FAST. IS THAT CONTAGIOUS PLEASE?

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Marathon woman! I love seeing Kathryn! I guess we’re going to Mallorca to do the 261!

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Go mini me!!! well, it was cool but first there was some attempts to get it, where you sign up on an Ipad with your facebook account, and UGH, I don’t know my password!!!! So it blocked me off of facebook. much hilarity ensued and eventually I got it. So, as soon as I took it out, ugh, I got creeped out, it looked like me! CREEPY. then, I liked it. I want to bit it a bit, but I don’t think it’s in my marathon week diet.

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don’t you think it looks like a blond Kara Goucher????

I saw many friends, chatted a bit and I knew there was a second floor. DON’T FORGET TO GO TO THE SECOND FLOOR!!! When you exit the main hall you take the stairs on your left. You’ll see it. I hope.

They had these big Start and Finish and a medal for each boro, which were cool. I’d love to have those in my apartment. I do.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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sorry I sat in Staten Island, but I guess that’s what I do most of the time I spend on Staten Island for the mary!

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I loved this photo!!!! I have never broken the tape and this is quite SURELY the closest I am every going to get!

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the second floor was EMPTY

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Then, we headed out, got some dosas for dinner at the Hampton Chutney, YUM and headed to the Under Armour Party as Nick Arciniaga and Chris McCormack would be there (and Macca is my husbands hero, and had never met him!). It was quite amazing! We were at the Under Armour Brand House on Broadway and Houston, Soho. Which, so lame of me, didn’t even know it existed!!! Well, it’s not like I go and walk around Broadway in Soho ever. Really, 2nd worst after Times Square for a local. the store was impressive!!! We pretty much wanted everything! (and did liiiiiiitle shopping)

They were releasing the speedform gemini. And I got a sample pair, we shall see soon!

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Juan had an ENLIGHTENING 2-minute convo with his IDOL. We talked about it for hours. Wow.

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wow the kid was EXCITED. note the osom sweatshirt? oh yes? yes, i got it for him! And Macca is TALL!

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so funny that the two athletes looks this way and the brand people looked THAT way?

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Nick and I had a cool convo. He is after Meb! eh, so easy, just stick to his back, Meb knows what his doing… Top American maybe? At least 2nd? Go Nick!

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these shoes feel SO different, quite bounce and like they slide forward somehow. I got all the info and specs and havent read ANYTHING yet obvs, but I am quite curious. I dont do well or believe even in cushiony or bouncy shoes, but these felt different. Ill definitely put some miles in them after the marathon!

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After that, we raced home. I had had a looooooong day at the office, preparing for this weekend’s marathon. Friday I am hosting and MCing my team’s dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square and I have all these other commitments for race weekend. Busy busy. TIRED. See you on the other side? how was YOUR expo trip?