Category Archives: Running

Lighting the Fire of Motivation….

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It’s no secret that I love motivation quotes, pictures, sayings and people.  In fact, I enjoy sharing things on my Facebook page that I come across via various web pages.  For some, the “motivational” pics and quotes are tired, old and redundant.  For me, they make me smile, nod my head and frequently say, YES, I LOVE THAT!

I stumbled on this one today.  I’ve had a rough week, too much work, too much stress, not enough holiday focus, and very little running.  I was looking for a “pick me up” and found this……

I don't run because

I know, you’ve seen it before, right?  Probably.  But it reminded me that I need to get my ass out of the office the door for a run, ASAP.

Running makes me appreciate things more.  It gives me energy and motivates me to DO things that I would NOT do if I hadn’t ran.  I find this particularly true on the weekends.  If I start my Saturday or Sunday (preferably both!) with a run, then it automatically makes me more productive throughout the rest of the day.  It lights a fire within me to MOVE.  To do things.  To NOT be lazy.  To live.  To not just snuggle into the couch with a cup of coffee but to actually handle the things in my life that need my attention.  Things that I would otherwise be content to put off for another day, or week, or month….. for as long as I could avoid it. 

That’s the secret.  Running/Working out GIVES energy, it doesn’t take it away.  Everyone always says, “Oh, you ran 10 miles this morning; you must be exhausted!?!?”  No, I’m not exhausted.  I’m energized and ready to tackle life.   Whatever that means for today.

Move your body, in any way you can.  Walk, run, hit the gym and you too will wake up and not just go thru the motions of your day but you will FEEL alive, FEEL motivated,  FEEL ready to take on whatever comes your way. 

** Light the Fire of Motivation ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

ShowerPill Giveaway Winner!!!

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The winner of the box of ShowerPill athletic wipes is #18 – BetyBliss!

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According to Betty’s comment, she is a fellow Ragnarian so hopefully she will #StayFresh for her teammates!

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Betty, please contact me at:  amanda@tootallfritz.com and send your mailing address for the ShowerPill wipes!

For the rest of us, there is a 20% off discount code:  STAYFRSH  which we can use to purchase ShowerPill wipes at Amazon HERE ($9.99 each).  I really love these things and encourage you to try them.  I buy them for my gym bag, my running bag and use them at least once per week after my lunchtime runs.  I really love these things!

** Stay Fresh ** Amanda – TooTallFritz ** amanda@tootallfritz.com

ShowerPill Review & Giveaway….

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Ragnar – Floridia Keys is 15 days away and I’m already thinking about my packing list.  Fortunately, ShowerPill is one of our sponsors and is supplying us with ShowerPill wipes for each van so that will be a major help in the hygiene department.

ShowerPill™ – A new state of freshness

Not a pill, not a shower and definitely not a baby wipe…

It’s the hygiene supplement to maintain your freshness while you lead an active, busy lifestyle.

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One of the “interesting” things about a relay race which goes on for days, is that showering is non-existent sporadic.  Added to the lack of showering, is the fact that you are cooped up in a van with 5 other people, who are also in desperate need of a shower.  All of whom have ran in the 80 degree Florida heat, for many miles, for multiple legs.  Everyone stinks.  It’s disgusting. 

I was first introduced to the ShowerPill wipes when they sponsored our ultra team for Ragnar Chicago (2012).   Although, I didn’t actually get to run due to my torn tendon, I did score a couple of the wipes.  I wanted to try them but I must admit, I was leary.  I never believe that things work like they are advertised because let’s be honest, advertisements sometimes embellish the facts to get us to spend our hard earned $ on something that we just don’t need.  Although, I liked the idea of a “shower” in wipe form; I didn’t necessarily know if I  “needed” it. 

ShowerPill_packageI had a couple of the body wipes in my running bag, in my car.  I didn’t try them.  Then I was out of town, at the Ironman 70.3 Muncie event, standing outside my car smelling worse than I had ever smelled after a race and I was dreading the 4.5 hour drive home.  The temps that day were in the 90s, so hot that our race was abbreviated.  I couldn’t even run b/c my foot was still rehabbing but I still smelled BAD after just the swim & bike.  Plus the water was so dirty that I had weeds & muck inside my tri kit.  So nasty.  I grabbed a ShowerPill wipe and hoped for the best.  As I ripped open the pouch, a nice aroma hit my nose.  The wipe was a nice size and very wet, a few drops even dripped from a corner.  I washed up with it, locked my dirty clothes in the trunk and got in the driver seat.  I was in absolute amazement that I not only “didn’t smell bad” but that I actually smelled good!  I was sold right then and there in a grassy parking area in Muncie, IN after using the product one time.  (IM 70.3 Muncie photos below)

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Since that day, I’ve used the ShowerPill wipes a lot.  I bought a couple boxes on Amazon and they are now my go to product when I need to “freshen up” after a run or race. I also frequently run on my lunch hour at work.  Everyone always asks me if I sweat, if I stink, if I shower.  Yes, I sweat & stink but there is no time for showering!  Pre-ShowerPill, I used either baby wipes, or the Say Yes to Cucumber wipes, for cleaning up.  That worked, if they weren’t dried out.  If I remembered them.  If I wasn’t too nasty.  Now with ShowerPill, I only need one wipe, plus I don’t need to carry an entire package of wipes that may or may not be dried out when I need them.  And I feel clean and fresh when I go back to work.  One wipe, that’s all I need.

ShowerPill_wipe

I think ShowerPill was invented specifically for people like me.  People on the “run”.  Busy mom’s who run directly from a workout to pick up the kiddos at school.  People who have to squeeze a workout into the middle of their work day.  People who travel to/from racing events and don’t always have the option of showering off after a major endurance adventure.  Relay runners who will spend days in a van with stinky teammates.  Regardless of how hectic your life, ShowerPill wants me & YOU to #StayFresh.

ShowerPill™ The Athletic Body Wipe™

  • Premium, 9×8 inch, thick and durable wipe that is individually packaged for true on-the-go versatility
  • Put it in your gym bag, purse, pocket or backpack
  • Proven to kill germs1 yet safe on sensitive skin and infused with moisturizing Aloe Vera and Vitamin E
  • Quick dry solution, does not require rinsing or extra dry time
  • Light fresh scent is not overpowering or “perfume-like”

ShowerPill™, it’s the Athletic Body Wipe™.

ShowerPill is giving away one box of athletic body wipes to a lucky reader.  If you would like the opportunity to win a box, please comment below and tell us in what aspect you would most likely use the wipes.  Since the holiday is fast approaching, the winner will be drawn on Friday (December 21st) at 9am.

ShowerPill wipes are available on Amazon HERE for purchase ($9.99 each).  If you would like to grab some for stocking stuffers, or to throw in your gym bag/purse/car then feel free to use the 20% off discount code:  STAYFRSH

Good luck & please #StayFresh for yourself and all of your friends and family!

** Stay Fresh ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

2012 …… In Review

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Seven days out from Christmas and I’m in disbelief that the year is almost gone.  Most of the time at year end, as I’m sitting in this position looking back, I’m able to take pride in the goals set and attained.  Not so much this year.  I struggled to build back up after some time off at the end of 2011 (a failed attempt to clear the plantar fasciitis).  Then I tore the tendon in my foot at the beginning of summer.  I will not run 1000 miles this year.  I did not run a 1:50 half marathon which I thought was an absolute no brainer.  I did not break 6:30 for a half iron event which I also thought was a no brainer.  I did not complete even one triathlon.  I did not run a marathon.  I did not maintain my weight.  I did not do a lot of things that I had thought were so very possible at the beginning of 2012.  But alas, it wasn’t a bad year. 

Occasionally, we just need to “let go” of our goals and go with the flow.   Some things are absolutely beyond our control.   You know the difference between being lazy and not making it happen verses life/injury got in the way and derailed the plans.  So if your life, or God’s plan for your life, got in the way this year and you DID NOT #MakeItHappen, then please take a minute, right now, and let it go.  Next year is another year.   The point of making goals is to constantly challenge oneself and be the best person that you can be at any given time.  Sometimes, the best we have at a given moment is sitting in the rocker ….. rocking our sick child.  Or icing an injured foot over a cold Corona Light.

So as I look back, I do not see failure but instead I look at the positive things that I did accomplish.

I got a photo with THE Green Men at the Shamrock Shuffle this year!  Major accomplishment!  Expect to see this photo several times a year from now til eternity.  I’m VERY proud!  (Nicole F, me, Green Man #1, Maggie, Green Man #2, & Kelly)

Nicole-Me- Green Men_Maggie_Kelly

I raced my first relay event with my “baby” girl, Aby.  Tinley Park Duathlon where my “baby” OFFERED to run for me so that I could still participate even though I was still very early in the injury stage and couldn’t even walk without a limp.

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I watched that same baby girl become not just her own person but a really FAST runner.

Monster Dash_2012_Aby &Me beginning

I managed to keep my crazy lil man safe “enough” to make it through 2012.

Mattessien State Park_kids on trail_Aug 2012

I’m still married. (This will be the only time that you will see me in a bikini…..only photo I have of hubs & I from 2012 and I may delete this section before I actually publish).

Mick & I_july 4 2012

So 2012 was not only a good year but a great one!  I encourage you to focus on the positive and do your damndest to make 2013 EVEN better.  We only live once.  Make it count.

** Cheers to Making It Count **  Amanda – TooTallFritz **

Pro Compression Calf Sleeve Winner

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The winner of the super cool Pro Compression Calf Sleeves is #17 – Ali-Lopez.com

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Ali, please email me at amanda@tootallfritz.com and let me know which color & size calf sleeves you would like.  It looks like the current color options are:  black, lime green, pink & white (not pictured below). 

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Please reference the size chart so that you get the appropriate size:

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For the rest of us, it appears the calf sleeves are currently on sale for $30.  We also have a coupon code for 40% off regular priced marathon socks & sleeves, plus free shipping using discount code: FIT40.  So if you miss this sale (or would like to try a pair of the Pro Compression marathon compression socks), then feel free to use the discount code.

Enjoy!  These are really great socks/sleeves!!

** Happy Compression ** Amanda – TooTallFritz ** amanda@tootallfritz.com **

Circling……

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Like a shark circling its prey, I stuck very close to my car today.  I went out with the goal of running 10 miles in the rain with the F’N Running Club:

FNRC_12-15-12

However, it didn’t take me long to realize that my legs were dead and weak from being sick and I needed to stick close to the car.  The car being my life line & safety net!  This is exact opposite my normal MO.  On a normal day, I would rather someone drop me off 10 or 20 miles from the house and let me fight my way home rather than keep running past my car and each time having to talk myself out of getting in it and going back home.  But I know my body and when it’s weak, it’s weak.  I knew that my car had an emergency bag which “might” keep me going for 10 miles.  Worth a shot, right?

First “Circle”:  I ran 2 miles ( 1 mile out, then back), then stopped at the car to grab my calf sleeves, a sip of water & blow my nose on a tissue rather than my sleeve. 

Second “Circle”:   4 miles – 2 miles out & then back.  My legs were DEAD, so I took a gel, drank some water, shed one of my wet layers & grabbed my iPod….. yep, I was desperate.  I honestly can’t remember the last time that I used a gel for a 10 miler.  It’s been more than a few years.  However, I did today and it was a life saver!

advocare_rehydrate gel

Last “Circle”:  4 miles – 2 miles out & back in the opposite direction.  It actually felt okay.  By this time the rain was coming pretty hard and it was difficult to stay warm but overall, I was pretty happy.  The gel gave me the little boost that I needed to keep me moving and the music was a nice distraction.  I’m sure it didn’t hurt either that I was almost done and knew that I could actually get in the car and leave this time!  🙂

My pace was all over the place.  As I ran away from my car it was slow going, but as I ran back toward my car each time my body was fooled in to thinking it was done pace quickened.  It worked.  10 miles complete.  9:30 pace.  Not the norm but a total win considering how my body feels.  I absolutely dedicate this run to my FL Ragnar Team.  If not for them, I’m not sure I would have been strong enough to haul it up and out of the house today.  In the cold.  In the rain.  When I really just wanted to sleep.

Don’t be afraid to change your game plan after you get out on the trail.  You know your body.  You know how you feel.  Each day and each run is different.  Sometimes, you need to stick close to home base (your house or car!) for practical or safety reasons.  No big deal.  Just get out there and do what you can do you, adjust the plan accordingly, and you “might” surprise yourself. 

** Happy  Running ** Amanda – TooTallFritz **

Restoration….

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res·to·ra·tion

  1. the act of restoring; renewal, revival, or reestablishment.
  2. a return of something to a former, original, normal or unimpaired condition.

There have been a lot of things weighing me down as of late and I think that is one reason the “sickies” caught me x2.  Things that a good run can’t fix.  Things I can’t fix.  Things I can’t understand.  As a control freak Type A personality, it’s hard to let go and realize that there are some things, no matter how important, which are beyond my control. 

As my body repairs itself from the “sickies”, I look within and begin the process of restoration.  What makes me happy?  What makes me feel good?  What can I do to “return” to my former self? 

First, I need to pay attention to my health and not take it for granted.  I’m an AdvoCare distributor but “may” have been lax about taking my ImmunoGuard.  Why?  Not sure.  I know it works.  I know that it normally keeps me healthy when others are sick, but I wasn’t taking it.  So this week, I’ve been focusing on my ImmunoGuard, and the olive leaf extract that Dr. Alexis likes, and Emergen-C (since I ran out of my CitriZinc Chews).  Overkill?  Maybe but who cares if it works!

immonogard    olive_leaf_extract   Emergen-C

Second, as soon as I could breathe, I wanted to run.  Okay, let’s be honest, I wanted to run before I could breathe but tried on WED and  it didn’t work out so well.  Today, I laced up and headed out to run. 

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Thirdly, I ran toward the water.  I always feel better when I’m near water:  a lake, a stream, a river, an ocean.  The water has restorative powers for me and makes me feel calm inside.  At peace.  Healthy.  Alive.

Oak St Beach_12-14-12

Fortunately, Chicago has an abundance of water.  Its just a short run from my office building and I have…..

Sand.Toes in the sand_chicago_12-14-12

Water.me_lakefront_12-14-12

And a little sunshine.  Chicago Lake Front_north beach boathouse_12-14-12

I’m feeling better already!  Now to focus a little more on getting back into my normal routine, taking my supplements, building my miles and letting go of things I can not control.   Only then, will my body and mind truly begin the process of restoration. 

What has restorative powers for you?  Do you feel at peace when you are near something, in a particular location or just sitting at home cuddling with the kids and pets?

** Restoration In Progress ** Amanda – TooTallFritz

Pro Compression Calf Sleeve Review & Giveaway

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As we know, compression is all the rage right now.  It has taken our running and endurance activities to another level by helping us recover faster and get back out on the trail sooner than ever before, to push harder and get results.  Compression works.

There are various compression products on the market.  Last week we talked about compression shorts, this week we will focus on compression calf sleeves.  Regardless of where you run or race, you will see colorful compression socks or sleeves on many runners. 

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I personally prefer calf sleeves when I run which is why I was super happy to see them recently added to the Pro Compression line up.  I’m very picky about my running socks.  I wear one brand and its a little thicker and cushier than the normal “ultra thin” running sock.  All my running shoes are laced to fit that particular sock and compression socks are not the same thickness.  So I prefer the sleeves while running in order to reap the benefits of compression and still be able to wear my favorite run sock.  Then I wear the full compression socks for after run recovery and traveling.  🙂

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According to the Pro Compression website:

Your feet and legs are your engine. Anything less than peak performance and full recovery means unnecessary discomfort while operating at less than your best. Change all of that with the advanced design and materials that make PRO Compression socks your ultimate recovery tool…..

PRO Compression socks are designed specifically to deliver both maximum comfort and speedy recovery times. The science is complex, but benefits such as improved blood flow, stability and comfort are universally understood.  The moment you put these socks on your feet and incorporate them into your game, you will feel and understand the difference.

I was super excited to try out the Pro Compression calf sleeves. I know their calf sleeve line is new but they know compression.  If I’m going to wear compression socks to work around the house with my slippers, Pro Compression socks are my first choice.  So I was ecstatic to try out the calf sleeves for running.

Pro Compression SLEEVES_green

I love them.  I love that they are green.  I love that they fit like a glove. I love that they are green.  I love that they didn’t move when I ran. I love that they are green.  I love that they compress without putting too much pressure on my legs to create discomfort. I love that they are green.  I love that they don’t stretch out after multiple wear sessions. I love that they are green.  I love that I can pair them with capri’s for warmth & compression as the temps turn cooler. I love that they are green.  I love that they are at the top of my drawer and my current new favorite thing. I love that they are green.  I love that they match my new favorite shoes so well.  🙂

Regardless of whether you wear compression for function or fashion, I recommend trying out the new Pro Compression Calf Sleeves.  I look forward to adding more colors to my line up!

Pro Compression has generously agreed to give one lucky reader a pair of calf sleeves ($45 value), in their size/color preference.  To be entered in the giveaway, please comment below and tell me what you prefer:  compression calf sleeves, full compression socks or none of the above?

You might also want to follow Pro Compression on Facebook HERE in order to be up to date on the latest specials!   If you want to shop now, use the discount code: FIT40 for 40% off, plus free shipping.  That brings the calf sleeves down to $27 each!  Good deal!

One winner will be chosen on Monday, December 17th at 9am.  Good luck!

** Compress Happy ** Amanda – TooTallFritz ** amanda@tootallfritz.com

Jingle Bell 5K Run – Kankakee, IL

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There were a lot of reasons that I originally registered for the Jingle Bell Run but this weekend things changed.  As I’ve said before, time changes “almost” everything.

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I was sick at the beginning of the week and by yesterday, Mr. Michael came down with a raging fever while I was out running.  Our fun-filled Christmas themed weekend, the one that I have looked forward to more than any other this entire year, bar the Shamrock Shuffle Weekend, disintegrated before my eyes. 

So yesterday, I came straight home from my run and held Michael pretty much the entire day, while hubby proceeded to come down with the creeping crude as well.  Awesome.  So at 4am this morn, I was laying awake holding my feverish baby seriously considering bagging my first race ever.  I didn’t want to go, everyone was sick.  I felt guilty about leaving but was giving one person a ride to the race and meeting many more on site.  Would it have mattered if I didn’t go?  Not really but I felt a bit of obligation.  I went. We had a large group of FNRC Runners.

JingleBell_2012_group

We picked up the packets flawlessly.  Met the director of the Arthritis Foundation.  Met the Race Director.  Pinned our bibs to our shirts.  Waited around and socialized in the warm gymnasium and then returned to the car to do final preparations.  At this point, it was pouring rain and about 37 degrees.  My guilt was running high from leaving hubby and Michael home sick, Aby was feeling crappy and begging to go home.  Nicki didn’t want to run in the pouring, freezing rain mind returning home.  I literally put my head on my steering wheel trying to figure out the right answer.  Stay?  Go?  Time was ticking and the race was upon us and for whatever reason, I decided to stay and run even though I knew we all wanted to just go back home.

During my moment(s) of indecision, we about missed the start, and were standing in the grass when the gun went off.  Myself, Aby & Nicki are below on our way to the start.  Thanks Kim M. for all the F’N photos in this post.  If not for you, we would only see words on a page.  I appreciate your constant, unwavering support of all of us!  JingleBell_2012_me aby nicki

The gun went off, it took me a second to realize that the race was actually starting and we stepped onto the road to run.  It was then that I realized we were quite a ways from the start line.  Normally the poor positioning wouldn’t be a big deal because most chip timed races also have a timing mat at the start line but this one did not.  So we were on gun time but it wasn’t too big of an issue for us cuz we all felt like crap, were there primarily to be festive and run in our awesome Team Sparkle skirts, and support out friends and the the Arthritis Foundation.  No big deal, but a bit of an error on my part. 

Amazingly enough, the rain pretty much stopped at the beginning of the race and we were able to run without getting too wet.  The roads were wet but not unsafe.  We had to run thru dodge some puddles.  The route was on campus at the Shapiro Development Center so on closed roads that did not have vehicular traffic.  It was well marked, had 2 waters stops and diverse terrain.  We even went off road shortly and ran a non-technical trail thru a wooded area.  Kinda cool.  Definitely different.  I liked it a lot.

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Plus, there were so many F’N Runners & Kankakee River Running Club members running, spectating and helping, that it was nice to see so many friendlies.  I run to run.  I show up on a lot of days knowing that I don’t have much to give but I go (and stayed today) because of all YOU who also got out there to support a good cause and take a small break from “real life”.  I went (and stayed) to support all of you, my amazing running family, in the only way that I could.  I ran.

And when it came time for awards, I was even more F’N proud seeing all my friends collect some bling.   From left:  Kate S (1st in age group), Maggie W (1st in age group), Susan M aka “Julie” (first overall female), Nicole F (2nd in age group), & Me (1st in age group). 

JingleBell_2012_award winners

And yes, we came home with some cool swag too.  A long sleeve cotton tee, a jingle bell, and a few other cool things.

JingleBell_2012_swag

The post race food options were amazing with everything from hot chocolate, cream of chicken rice soup to pizza.  A costume contest was held, a raffle, and they gave awards 3 deep in all the normal age groups.  It was a good turn out with with well over 400 people finishing the race and a great race in general.  If all goes well, I  hope to go back and actually race the Jingle Bell next year.  I love a well run, festive event where I see lots of friends.  Great job, Jingle Bell Run! 

** Happy Running ** Amanda – TooTallFritz

Ragnar FL Keys – Runner #1

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As you know, the Ragnar Florida Keys event begins in Miami and finishes in Key West, Florida at the “southermost” tip of the continental United States.  The event covers 196.9 miles over a 24 to 36 hour period.

Ragnar FL Keys_course map

I must say, this route looks as if it can’t possibly be anything but scenic but I am a realist and know that despite the beauty, it will be difficult and windy once we hit the causeways heading toward the Keys.  But still beautiful.

I filled the slot for Runner #1 for our team, 2 Bros & 10 Does.  I’m excited to be leading off the race, starting in “hopefully” nice cool temps at 7:30 am, and getting my first leg out of the way before I lose too much energy to nerves.  Leg #1 is 5.7 miles and designed as HARD, probably because mile 1-3 are on the Rickenbacker Causeway.  There is a steep incline to get onto the causeway (think a very long entrance ramp to a freeway) which I believe I was told would be approximately a mile in length.  Yes, 1 mile of pure burning climb.  Hmmmm….wonder how this will effect my pace?  Once the mile long climb is complete, then it will be smooth/flat running unless the wind pushes me over the edge til I descend & leave the causeway. What goes up MUST come down and that’s what I try to remember as the inclines are zapping all power out of my legs.

Ragnar FL Keys_leg 1

My second leg will then commence after my 12 teammates take a turn killing “a few” miles.  I will be back on the run with Leg #13 in Homestead, FL which also happens to be the hometown of my friend, fellow Tough Chik, & teammate, Angela C over at Life Beyond the Chaos.  Leg #13 promises 8.8 VERY HARD boring miles.  Awesome.  This leg, besides being longish, guarantees an amazing gravel road with large rocks & massive potholes which will be VERY difficult to run.  Sounds great, right?  It could only better if I get to run it in the dark!  According to our calculations, if everyone is on pace which will be impossible, then I will finish this leg at 6:43pm.  So I have a chance of some daylight during this section.  A “chance”.  If everyone is on pace.  Yep, I plan to run it in the dark. 

Ragnar FL Keys_leg 2

My third and final leg of the event looks awesome!  It will be run leg #25.  A “mere” 3 EASY miles.  Elevation change = 0.  Those miles look like a piece of paradise in Marathon, FL.  However, I do wonder how much fatigue my legs will be exhibiting at that point in the event.   Focus on the end beauty, right?  If all  goes well, and we are once again “on pace”, I will be running this section at 8:38 am.  Yep, I’ll plan to run mid morning.Ragnar FL Keys_leg 3

Then I wait til the team cycles thru our 12 runners again and look forward to the finish line ceremony.  At the finish, both vans and all teammates assemble and run thru the finish together for beer and pizza the finisher medals and photos.

Although, it all looks easy enough, I know to expect the unexpected.  Everything matters in relay running:  each runner, weather, elevation changes, fueling, terrain, etc.  If you think of all the random things that can happen to 1 runner in a race, now multiply that by 12.  Lots of variables.  I’ll just be hoping for the best and focusing on hydration and fuel.

**Happy Relay Running** Amanda – TooTallFritz * amanda@tootallfritz.com