tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post3868577245552569388..comments2024-03-04T19:58:44.025-05:00Comments on Racing Stripes: Milbonkee Lakefront MarathonElizabethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06265175590096078175noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-57411412199962409502011-11-27T20:15:10.908-05:002011-11-27T20:15:10.908-05:00just came across your blog and this race report-I ...just came across your blog and this race report-I definitely felt I could have written a lot of this post!! I've had a sub-3:40 monkey on my back for the last 3 years, and I just ran NYCM and thought that was gonna be the one, but my race seemed like it went a lot like yours.<br /><br />What the future holds for me as a marathoner, I don't know, all I know is I'm determined to end this year on a good note with some short races, and it looks like you're doing the same. best of luck to you! :-)Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-52922537713349332672011-10-06T21:11:39.957-04:002011-10-06T21:11:39.957-04:00I am so very sorry Elizabeth. :( Regardless, I t...I am so very sorry Elizabeth. :( Regardless, I think you are an AWESOME and GREAT runner!! No matter what you are still an inspiration!!!!<br /><br />By the way, my word verification is bless. So many blessings in life!!!Zenaida Arroyohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18137949290555784656noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-89067880271739283972011-10-06T17:41:57.827-04:002011-10-06T17:41:57.827-04:00Thanks for your kind comments on my blog. So sorry...Thanks for your kind comments on my blog. So sorry that Milwaukee didn't go as well as you hoped.Kristinhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01325119755927336119noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-15637750664807664312011-10-05T19:08:39.086-04:002011-10-05T19:08:39.086-04:00Elizabeth, I feel your pain, every single step of ...Elizabeth, I feel your pain, every single step of it. I have had my fair share of disastrous, embarrassing marathons, most recently Boston 2010. I was plagued by insomnia for days prior, basically OD'd on Ambien, and had a panic attack on the course. When I ran St. george on Saturday, I could feel disaster looming once again. I was sick and it was hot, and I was filled with dread. And then something weird happened: I let it go. I just went out and ran and said to hell with it. I'm here to have fun, and I'm just going to relax and enjoy it. And I had a great race. I know it is all easier said than done, and if I knew the secret I would not have had multiple bonks myself, but there is no question the mental factor has played a huge role for both of us. If I were you, I'd sign up for a marathon "for fun," something where you know BQ is most unlikely so you won't even think about it. Get the joy of running back, forget about your times, and the rest will follow. <br /><br />I know you already know this, but your husband is a total keeper!Nancy Frieshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08838257680150376255noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-75485274415944837992011-10-05T07:09:59.042-04:002011-10-05T07:09:59.042-04:00In our ideal running world, every awesome training...In our ideal running world, every awesome training cycle would promise a PR Marathon. Unfortunately, life does not work this way. We've all seen the images of Paula on the side of the road during the marathon, seen Kara not meet her goals, and Deena experience injury during a race. They eat, sleep, and breath running. We are actually more fortunate- we have jobs, friends that don't run, and success that comes from other outlets. <br /><br />My point here is don't feel alone, and don't EVER feel like a failure. Every.single.runner has "one of those days." Go back and read your own blog. You have had some kick butt training and racing. <br /><br />Sometimes it takes awhile to meet those goals. Look at me... how many years have I been chasing Sub 3? <br /><br />As far as RWOL. I loved that place. The problem was- too many experts, many of which have never met you (or me). Distance yourself from wherever you need distance. Keep around the people that make you feel good and ditch the rest. <br /><br />You ARE awesome! <br /><br />Ps... I've REALLY been wanting to lead a BQ women's pace group....L.A. Runnerhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06697035798338739693noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-42615049232986410042011-10-04T20:24:02.363-04:002011-10-04T20:24:02.363-04:00I think that's great that you and your husband...I think that's great that you and your husband finished together, it's great that he refused to leave you behind, and I think it's great that you've taken the time to think and reflect on all that happened.<br />I think the pressure build up is HUGE, personally. <br />Sorry to hear that it was a disappointment. I think finishing, feeling like that is a major accomplishment. You could have at any given point just said, "I quit". But you didn't. So congratulations to that.<br />AND YOU DESERVE your medal!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-68858592546868156042011-10-04T15:49:31.813-04:002011-10-04T15:49:31.813-04:00Just wanted to say love you friend! You're sti...Just wanted to say love you friend! You're still my inspiration no matter what.Randi and Markhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07951138891351125908noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-46873122116210769402011-10-03T20:30:44.226-04:002011-10-03T20:30:44.226-04:00Elizabeth,
All very valuable responses here, but p...Elizabeth,<br />All very valuable responses here, but probably none are more important than your own insight. I had this experience in Chicago and it has been a long road with much work and reflection to get back the love( just in time to break a foot, no less).<br />You are a wonderful runner with great ability. I will be ready with bells when you are finding your next race..Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09667490646023492169noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-40390896278868008852011-10-03T19:59:37.029-04:002011-10-03T19:59:37.029-04:00Elizabeth - Its been a long time since we've &...Elizabeth - Its been a long time since we've 'talked' but I think what I got most from this post is that your husband loves you very much, and I remember from being on the womens forum with you, that you really wanted to find someone who made you happy, and it looks as if you have. If you get nothing else from this race, you should walk away with that notion. There are people everywhere who want that, its harder to find than any race PR that's for sure.<br /><br />Everyone has given you enough thoughtful comments and reassurance so I thought I'd just say that I got away from the forums as well because everything ceased to be mine in comparison to how others were doing - I venture on there for other reasons from time to time, but running has finally become something I do, and I have moments where I got lost in the mire of what everyone else is capable of, but that never helps me get to the finish line.<br />Your 8k is proof enough that you have what you need to get you there, as are your other shorter races, but perhaps you need to allow yourself permission to say that whatever it is you can achieve is what is good enough, not what others will say before or after your race and I think what you want most will finally come.sllygrlhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08082505470951609958noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-89787604659234474062011-10-03T19:24:03.305-04:002011-10-03T19:24:03.305-04:00Oh Elizabeth, it just breaks my heart to see you g...Oh Elizabeth, it just breaks my heart to see you go through this again. You may not know it, but I've been reading your blog since at least when you ran Arizona. I was pulling for you SO HARD to finally come out on top of this distance. Your training cycle this time around has been rock-solid, and I'm glad to see you aren't blaming anything in your training.<br /><br />Listen to George - he's super smart about racing (and all things) and listen to Amy - she went through this late last year, and it was such a struggle, but she finally beat it, and you will too. We're all here for you.Katiehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10004930640458109084noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-41181448153236893192011-10-03T19:20:38.129-04:002011-10-03T19:20:38.129-04:00Wow...what a story. You have really thought throug...Wow...what a story. You have really thought through everything and looked at it from all angles, Elizabeth. I think it is so smart to come away with lessons learned and a new perspective. You are a strong runner. You love the sport. You are smart. You are putting a lot of pressure on yourself and if putting it out there on FB and your blog is creating anxiety you are wise to be aware of that and make some changes ... Though I would selfishly miss visiting you here. In all truth, your story is just as inspiring to me as if you had run a PR and a BQ. I am learning from you and I appreciate you putting it out there and sharing your thoughts and experiences with training and racing here. I do understand though, but as a reader and fellow female runner I value your knowledge, experience and advice in the blog/running community. So take a break from writing/sharing if you need to but please come back :-)Jessica (Pace of Me)https://www.blogger.com/profile/14489016806529715064noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-55807149576545909212011-10-03T18:57:45.722-04:002011-10-03T18:57:45.722-04:00Oh, sweetie. I totally see what you're saying...Oh, sweetie. I totally see what you're saying, and I think your plan to deal with it from the emotional/mental direction makes good sense. Good luck recapturing your no-pressure joy in running the marathon. I know you are capable of it!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-56939131839568137842011-10-03T18:45:59.063-04:002011-10-03T18:45:59.063-04:00How true about the race anxiety and stress we plac...How true about the race anxiety and stress we place on ourselves, despite trying not too (really hard) It effects a lot of us BUT at least you know now the issue, and will beign to address it.<br /> I am sorry about how the run turned out, you're a great athlete, you'll get your day!! :) (just like I believe I'll get mine!) <br /><br />PS. I think I'm 90% in for Shamrock- perhaps we could pace eachother to a PR? :)Tarahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07100999921533158685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-8634102984173461172011-10-03T18:30:02.031-04:002011-10-03T18:30:02.031-04:00Hey Elizabeth! Hugs and I'm so sorry. I lite...Hey Elizabeth! Hugs and I'm so sorry. I literally teared up reading this post. You train so hard and you totally deserve a good race! <br /> I have to say I am really, really proud of you for finishing and am glad to hear Greg stayed with you! You helped him through NY and now he was able to help you which is awesome - you guys really are a great couple and I'm happy you found each other. I know you don't believe it and can do better but that's still a time a lot of people would love and try and remember all your other PRs lately! <br /> I can totally relate to what your coach said - there was a lot of pressure on you and I think you put a lot on yourself as well. I think you should sign up for another marathon soon - after work calms down and NOT really tell anyone! It may take some of the stress off. We are all supportive of you and love hearing about your training but maybe you should just do it for yourself next time - we all know you can! Take care and feel better!! AllyAllyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04679235093777867680noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-75364477743781288282011-10-03T18:14:00.951-04:002011-10-03T18:14:00.951-04:00Lots of great comments here. Another thought: bef...Lots of great comments here. Another thought: before running another "official" marathon, do a 26.2 mile run sometime--no pressure, no stress; just enjoy it.bethp262https://www.blogger.com/profile/09340871847877151911noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-86298162512461581212011-10-03T17:49:40.196-04:002011-10-03T17:49:40.196-04:00Dang. I love Gregs comment bout feelingsorry for y...Dang. I love Gregs comment bout feelingsorry for yourself later! Did you at least get some good race pics perhaps? <br /><br />Martianmarathon.com no tracking no results for days nobody famous does it (except sara and me) perfectly cold april weather<br /><br /> have you thought of doing a bunch of them for awhile (maybe 5 per year) until it doesnt get you all jackedup?<br /><br />I like your post here. Very thought provoking. But. Who in the world could sleep if there wasa squirrel breakin possible? Using the toasterin themiddleof the night?black bearhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07436592508477196027noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-11399830746946446262011-10-03T17:25:07.611-04:002011-10-03T17:25:07.611-04:00I'm so sorry to hear how hard this race was! I...I'm so sorry to hear how hard this race was! I know exactly how you felt at mile 8 because I felt the exact same way about 10 miles into the Baltimore marathon last year. It was so frustrating, but the only thing I could do was learn from it and move on (which is sounds like you are already doing). I know you'll get this figured out! <br /><br />I also think it is true that we don't realize how much stress, anxiety, expectations and pressure are affecting us pre-race.Allisonhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14215575637275919972noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-31835488667744167592011-10-03T17:24:41.065-04:002011-10-03T17:24:41.065-04:00I have been a follower of yours for years. I have...I have been a follower of yours for years. I have bonked at more races than I want to admit, and mostly because of stress. It is embarrassing and I have cried at way too many finish lines.<br /><br />Last year, I stopped blogging and reading the runners world forums. I had a terrible fall marathon so decided to take some time off. After a month of 5k training, I decided with 5 weeks to go to run the Disney Marathon. I got to that starting line with no expectations at all as my goal race was in May. I qualified for Boston at that race. My husband wasn't there, it was just me, having fun and it finally happened. I have never felt that relaxed at a race nor so happy at a finish line.<br /><br />You are obviously trained and capable. (I knew the same thing about myself.) You will run your time. Telling someone to relax is crazy, as I have heard it too much. Good luck to you on forgetting everyone else and running your dream race. It was worth it.robinbbhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14815631233691872802noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-34035997094113472472011-10-03T17:14:28.027-04:002011-10-03T17:14:28.027-04:00This reads a lot like my MCM race report. I've...This reads a lot like my MCM race report. I've been there and know it sucks. Like my friend Pete says though, put that in a little box so that you can look back at it and say, there's no f'ing way that's happening again. I've called on that advice more than once! You'll get this figured out, I promise. If I can do it, you definitely can do it. Can't wait to run with you once you're recovered!amyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11615930655820867299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-83491776770904569722011-10-03T15:58:38.624-04:002011-10-03T15:58:38.624-04:00Cris- You and I have very similar personality type...Cris- You and I have very similar personality types. It's easier said than done to just relax sometimes!<br /><br />The Cohens-- Yes I have read that book. I've experimented with lots of different approaches over the years and I think my new approach of less mileage and more pool running/swimming has been more effective than anything in the past. <br /><br />lizard- I wish I had known everyone was going to do USA. Last year most of CAR did Shamrock! I registered for Shamrock a few months back. I LOVE that race and wasn't able to do it this year because of stress fractures. I will cheer for you gals though.<br /><br />GIM: Yes, tons of pressure. I might disappear from the Blog world and Facebook for awhile. I disappeared from RWOL for that very reason. Too many people "watching". I love them all but it's a lot of pressure too.<br /><br />DASH- I didn't know that about Advil PM. I didn't take one the night before the race but I took one Friday night. I woke up at midnight and could not fall back asleep and I knew it was really important for me to get that sleep so I popped the pill. I hate relying on a sleeping pill but if I don't then I am awake for hours.Elizabethhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06265175590096078175noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-88822360635718597132011-10-03T15:57:07.484-04:002011-10-03T15:57:07.484-04:00Dear god I could have written so much of this!
Yo...Dear god I could have written so much of this!<br /><br />You know how since my DNF at London in 2009 I've struggled with marathons and running in general due to anxiety/stress etc. Again this coincides with thinking "hey I've done pretty well without a proper training structure, imagine what I could do if I followed one?". My PR was 3 years ago now and was the most relaxed and enjoyable marathon I've ever done. I was there to enjoy it and wasn't really expecting to get the time I did. Since then running has been a disaster. I am stressed out during any training plan I attempt to do. Have become obsessed with *not* having done what I *should* have done. Completely back fires. I was supposed to be doing Dublin (the site of my PR) in 4 weeks but I've recently decided to DNS as I simply haven't done the training.<br /><br />I was having regular nightmares about training and what I *hadn't* done. I couldn't complete long runs or sessions because all I could think about was what I hadn't done. Basically I've decided I need a break from thinking like this and am just going to run for 'fun' until the new year to hopefully fall back in love with it.<br /><br />Sorry for such a long, and memememe, comment!<br /><br />Basically I understand a lot of what you said. I also think the description of your taper sounds like hell and it would be a miracle if you *didn't* feel like death trying to run a marathon in these circumstances. So dealing with these is definitely crucial. You always have and always will be one of my biggest running inspirations and I know you can deal with this and come back stronger.Rosahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07970342337503842514noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-3730545990607278502011-10-03T15:49:44.057-04:002011-10-03T15:49:44.057-04:00As I said yesterday, do not let this race get you ...As I said yesterday, do not let this race get you down, just move on, it's no indication of where you are at. Like Cris said, lick your wounds and have some fun!<br /><br />I agree with everything on the stress. On the advil PM, yikes, that stuff can wear you out and stay in your system for quite a few days, definitely adding to feeling tired and not right! <br /><br />I told you yesterday, you should run USA with Liz & Amy!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-77249075375239204282011-10-03T15:42:28.714-04:002011-10-03T15:42:28.714-04:00Sorry honey, that sucks bigtime. But I can so see...Sorry honey, that sucks bigtime. But I can so see how your coach's response of why it happened makes a huge amount of sense. It really can get overwhelming between FB and forums and everyone's expectations of you, not to mention your own. Add to that the BQ monkey on you back, it's a crapload of pressure! <br /><br />Glad you're ok, that's the main thing, and can use this one to your advantage for the next time out.Girl In Motionhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12845071620369547052noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-49330849275089604202011-10-03T15:41:40.993-04:002011-10-03T15:41:40.993-04:00Oh, Elizabeth! I'm so sorry! But it's all ...Oh, Elizabeth! I'm so sorry! But it's all true about anxiety and stress and the pressure we put on ourselves. Rest up...and can I talk you into running the USA Marathon with me and Amy? ;)Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2189875022254484779.post-16056924783773399222011-10-03T15:41:33.788-04:002011-10-03T15:41:33.788-04:00Have you ever read Advanced Marathoning? I recent...Have you ever read Advanced Marathoning? I recently read it and I really like it. I'm loosely following his 12/55 plan right now (loosely because working part time + a baby doesn't allow me to follow it outright). He makes some great points in there and gives some great examples of elite marathoners who all have very different tolerance to mileage, speed, etc. They talk a lot about finding out what works for your body. You are so focused and driven that maybe you're right, maybe you do need to step back and run more by feel. Can you put the Garmin aside for a while? The previous poster makes some good points too about remembering *why* you run.Fit 4 Momhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02851640288320941948noreply@blogger.com