My KSOs are too big. WAY too big but I’ve loved them the entire year I’ve been running in them anyway.
The major disadvantage is when I”m running in wet/muddy conditions. Then the feet start to slip around on the inside a lot. Sunday run was fun regardless!
Aprox 1,600 feet up Tiger Mtn looking down
Elevation gain and loss – 2,000 feet
As soon as I have official results and hopefully pictures I’ll post about it. For now – here’s the run – holy crap best time for me EVER in my VFFs!! Make that best time for me ever Period!
Average speed was 6.7mph! 😐 woah! Way to go 40-yr-old me!
Time: 01:06:20
Distance: 7.41 mi
Avg Speed: 6.7 mph
Max Speed: 9.1 mph
Avg Pace: 08:57 min/mi
Best Pace: 06:36 min/mi
Updated: Found some real results!
My Stats:
overall place: 366 out of 883
division place: 9 out of 64 <—- In the top 10 of my division! 
gender place (F): 112 out of 471
time: 1:06:17 (that’s 7.40 miles in 1hr 06 min) !!!
————————————
Total Stats:
Number of Finishers: 883
Number of Females: 471
Number of Males: 412
Average Time: 1:09:49
Full results here: http://www.onlineraceresults.com/event/view_event.php?event_id=4700
My husband and I work in the same area. Yesterday was a day off for me and I planned my run as a “run home from work” event. Woke up to crazy snow-covered ground but I put the FiveFingers on anyway, rode into work with the spouse and proceeded to make my way back home.
The run was fantastic. Combo of street, sidewalk, paved trail, against the daily-grind-commute traffic and after making it 7.8 miles I have THIS to conquer!
Running up that area I encountered large areas of water & mud that I couldn’t go around.
So of course my VFFs got nice & muddy. Check out the Flickr! photos on the right if you’re interested.
Overall elevation gain = 588
Yesterday I went out for (what supposed to be) a short run before work. With my new job I don’t start until 12pm so I can be lazy about getting out later in the morning.
I ran around the neighborhood and veered off onto a trail – which I then took an obvious detour to a really NON-trail. Once I figured I was veering into “I’m going to be lost” territory I couldn’t turn around because a HUGE dog was chasing me and doing his duty of keeping me off his master’s property.
So I continued on this non-trail path and ended up in a marsh. I mucked through the mud and bog, crawled over a beaver dam and eventually made it to a stream to wash off my feet/VFFs/legs and continue on. (side note – that was SO MUCH FUN!)
With my trusty GPS watch tracking my movements, I knew I was over 3.25 miles away from home. I had no idea where the dirt road would take me but I took the left fork anyway.
The FIRST building I came upon out of the clearing?
This is an LDS church-my parents religion
With a “Thanks Mom!” I got my bearings and continued running home.
Figures Mom would direct me out of a bog and drop me off on the church doorstep, eh? She’s been trying to get me back to church for over 20 years and just because she’s passed doesn’t mean she’ll stop now!
Enjoyed a nice long Saturday run with a group of ladies celebrating a friend’s birthday together. She was “Running 45K for 45th Birthday”
I only ran the ‘half=22.5km’ (ONLY half? who am I kidding that’s 14 miles!) with a few other ladies. It was quite fun!
I ran in my VFF Sprints. This is the longest distance I’ve run since finishing the LV RnR Marathon Dec ’09. My left foot pad wasn’t happy at the end. However, in December it was the right. I think it’s the muscle still building up.
I went from 7-10 miles a week for the last three months to 25. Oops! My calves are a little sore but life is good!
I started a new job on the 1st. The first two weeks were training and yesterday I began my official shift of “four-tens” Swing! Sun-Wed 12pm-10pm.
This is exciting because I am going to run in the mornings and be able to do stuff on my three-day weekends. I plan of volunteering at the animal sanctuary where I gave all of Killian’s stuff – cages, food, etc. Besides exotic birds they have lots of other animals they have taken in. Check it out: http://www.sarassanctuaryanimalrescue.org/ I’m still really depressed regarding my Mom and Killian’s deaths. I wonder how long it will take to recover. I’ll never think of one without the other.
I started off my new swing schedule right by running 10 miles yesterday before work! I need to remember to take more stretch breaks and drink more water for recovery.
Although I haven’t signed up for any summer marathon – I agreed to train with my running partner for hers! So – I’m on a real training schedule again. She is LOVING her VFF Classics and is borderline fanatic. I love it! When she comments about other people in running shoes hurting themselves I reminded her we ran many miles together me in VFF and her going through many new shoes to help. She laughed and smiled and said “I KNOW!” lol I’m so happy she is transitioning to them. AND she works in a gym and has already influenced tons of people there. Rock on woman!
OK Time to get ready for work. Tah
PS: We totally re-vamped our house. It’s like we moved but not. I think it was my husband’s way of dealing with the loss of Killian. Paint, carpet, furniture moved around. It’s quite awesome actually.
Yesterday we said fare-thee-well to February with a mud run. It was so much fun! We ran on a very narrow trail that is used a lot for mtn. bikers (but open to everyone).
Today March 1st I start a new job. With that comes a new schedule that will open up my time to run more and allow me to focus on my family.
This month is looking up to be the best of the year so far! That’s not really hard to do for this year, however.
Here’s to running!
Diving into Lake Washington on New Year’s day is something I can honestly say never crossed my mind until Dec 30, 2009 during lunch while reading the paper. It seemed like a great way to start a new running year – so I signed up.
I wore my KSOs which gave me a HUGE advantage over shod runners. More on that. I also saw five other people (all guys) wearing FiveFingers and one barefoot runner Marathon Maniac who turned out to be Barefoot Jon. I chatted him for a while after the race and discovered he’s been running barefoot for quite some time. I hope to meet him again in the future.
There was a big storm last night and early this morning which left the park trail covered in large areas of mud and wide wet puddles in the middle and on the sides of the course. Deep wet cold puddles. The morning’s temp was nice and warm at 48 with the water 42.
A beer garden was there which opened at 10am – gun time was scheduled for 10:30. I figured I’d get some liquid courage and celebrate the New Year with a beer before the race. Unlike most others, I did not drink last night. Only three other ladies were enjoying beer before the race. I chatted with them, we finished our beer and then headed off to the 10mm time slot start area.
Yes, my feet were cold before. I had already walked through mud and water on the way to the race grounds. The whole time smiling, mind. Once the race started – I smiled even more.
Every time the race crowd would part ways to go over/around/avoid the mud and puddles at all costs – I would run straight through them. BLISS! I felt like such a kid! I saw Barefoot Jon running in the muddy grass. He was wearing his Marathon Maniac singlet. I always cheer on Maniacs as they are so inspiring. I noticed he was BF so I shouted out to him (as he was on the side & I was in the middle of the trail) “Barefoot Maniac! Do you run your marathons barefoot?!” He heartily replied: “YES! Try it sometime!”
There was also a table where people were removing their shoes before they went into the water at the end. I ran right in and was able to sprint up & out to the finish line.
My Garmin GPS was spot-on for mileage at every mile marker. I hit the ‘lap’ button right as I went into the water – again when I got out and then again at the ‘finish’ line. I have a new 5K pr even including the extra distance from the dive spot!
After I ate a banana and some chili (but had not changed yet) I saw BF Jon at the drop-bag table. He’s been running BF for 20 years. Awesome.
I can’t begin to say how proud I am of the below place times for me. I’ll be there next year for sure.
Division place: 31 out of 132
gender place: 111 out of 472
overall place: 366 out of 934
Dive time: 28:45 (3.10 miles)
chip time: 29:39 (3.17 miles)
gun time: 32:28
Links: my Garmin info, Polar Bear Dive Seattle (Resolution Run 5K)
December 6, 2009
I landed in Vegas with an hour to spare to pickup my race packet. I suppose it was good on my wallet the fact I didn’t have time to shop at the expo.
I then spent the evening with my sister and friends who were running the ½ marathon. Same time last year we were all together for the Las Vegas half. Little did I know I would be returning a year later to run in my second full marathon – this time in Vibram Five Fingers at that.
Sunday morning was nice and chilly. I made it to my corral and huddled with about 30 thousand other people on the Las Vegas Strip. Not many people commented on my Sprints at first. As we waited some people would notice and either strike up conversation with me or talk amongst themselves while pointing out the crazy shoes.
I didn’t prepare myself for the questions. In then end the questions boiled down to two main asks:
Do you like running in them? (yes I enjoy it very much)
Are they comfortable? (yes seems too short an answer sometimes but it’s the truth)
Of course there were a few “what about arch support” questions to which I would just state my foot support is the natural foot structure support as nature made me.
I did not wear headset during the run. In fact, I’ve not run a long slow run with music for months, due to the fact I’m running with someone most of the time. I figured why zone out on music when one of the reasons I like to run is to appreciate myself and my surroundings?
Yet I did keep a few songs in my mind for cadence at times. I tried to apply the Chi Running methods I’ve been practicing for the last few months. The running while leaning forward – ie Falling Forward really helped me stay relaxed.
Towards the Half-Full split I met up with Sara from Alaska who was seeking encouragement to continue on with the Full marathon. She was running with a bunch of Halfers and they saw me and *glomp* “There you go, Sara!” Sara and I ran together for two miles and not once did she comment on my Sprints. This made me happy for some reason. This was her 6th marathon. Horray Sara!
Mile 17 I had to sit on the curb for some foot adjustment. You see, this was only my second run in the Sprints. Up to this point I had been running in KSOs. My Sprints fit perfect! On the right foot at least. My left foot must be a tad longer because the fabric kept biting into the back. I had some blister packs. I wasn’t getting a blister but put the packs on for padding just in case.
This all worked well because a local runner from WA who I knew from online yet never met 
passed me by and recognized me! She’s a Marathon Maniac and one of the inspiring people I have admired from afar. We live 20 miles apart at home and didn’t meet until Las Vegas! Fun times.
I ran with Tory and her good MM friend Marie for three miles. They stopped to get pictures with a runner Elvis so I kept going. We waved at an out & back spot. I knew they’d catch me again. I was still smiling, but starting to get tired.
Only six more miles.
My sister wanted me to call at mile 24 to alert her of my location. I called at 22. I didn’t think I’d have the energy at 24 and I was right. Although still no blister, the bite of the material was turning into a version of The Wall.
The thoughts going through my head as I was running into The Wall: I know I can do the distance. Nothing is hurting I’m just tired. I haven’t run 20+ miles for two months. My last longest distance was 17 miles. My time is great! Way ahead of my June marathon.. I am running for my brother, sister, and family. Snap out of it!
My siblings were the ones who purchased my race entry and flight to Las Vegas for my 40th birthday present. Thinking of my family – I finished strong. My sister and her friends who ran the half were at the finish line cheering me on. It was a great feeling as I crossed the line. My second Marathon turned into two PRs: 1) time at 5:08 and 2) longest distance yet in VFFs for me.
Once I met up with my sister the nerves in my feet finally started to kick into overdrive. Running 26.2 miles on asphalt will do that to ya no matter what type of shoe you wear, IMO.
My first marathon was in ‘running shoes’ – this one in VFFs I didn’t want to walk one step further at the end of either race!
So I took the Sprints off my feet felt very tender. I walked back to the hotel in my sisters socks. What a nice sister!
After a bath I was ready to head out to dinner with the friends. My feet were fine. During the run I had one small blood-blister at one point that appeared to have broken and sealed back up by the time I took the Sprints off. I saw the blood on the inside of the Sprints – examined my feet and could not feel or see any trace of a blister. How odd! Other than that I had no injuries, aches or pains.
This time last year I had no clue about Vibram FiveFingers. What a joy they have turned my running hobby into.
Tuesday morning I was running on the Treadmill in my new Sprints. The material behind the left ankle is a bit tight still and I didn’t have a blister bandage with me.
At first I took a paper towel and placed it in the shoe for cushion. It was very uncomfortable. Then it occured to me: Why don’t I just take the Sprints off? I’ve run barefoot on the treadmill before for three miles! So I removed my Sprints, set them next to the treadmill, and ran two more miles barefoot. I remain blister-free. My marathon is this Sunday. I’ll have pleanty of blister-aids with me then. I want to run the entire thing in my Sprints but if needed I will definately remove the Sprints for some BF running.Ran eight miles out & back Sunday (100% VFF run for me). This is the last long run for my running partner before her firts Marathon on the 18th. She’s going to R.I. to run it and also visit family while there.
Have a fun Marathon, Sally! Wh00t!
I’ve been playing the new MMORPG Aion™ and it’s a LOT of fun. I love the flying ability. It’s amazing. I have two characters: Cleric and Ranger. I generally play a scout/assassin/ranger class so started with the Ranger. Then I decided to make a Cleric and must admit I’m having a bit of fun playing with her.
The other night I played with my DH and a couple online friends in a group. I had a blast, Generally I don’t like grouping. I suppose the people you play with make a big difference. Also – Teamspeak rocks. No having to type & fight at the same time.
6 miles in shoes, 14 miles in VFFs.
My running partner is training for her first full marathon to be held on October 18th. I agreeded to continue to run the Long Slow Runs with her, although I myself am no longer training for a full marathon.
Last Sunday was a scheduled 20 mile run. Her first 20 miler – only my fourth time running at 20+ miles this year. I hadn’t run at all last week due to the temp job hours throwing me off track.
We ran around a lake six and a half times. http://connect.garmin.com/activity/14862872
I ran the first six miles in my trail running shoes (that I ran my June marathon in). It was the first time running in shoes for three months. I wanted to be careful with my feet on the course. I hadn’t run around this lake before and didn’t know what to expect for the ground. I didn’t want to be stepping on any rocks that would re-injure my left foot (landed wrong on a rock weeks ago and it’s taken ages to recover).
However, I did bring my Vibram FiveFingers. I was going to carry them in my CamelBak but left them in the car since it was only a three mile loop.
After the first two laps (six miles) my back was starting get a knot I hand’t had since the marathon – the last time I ran in shoes. Although my feet were landing with my ‘new’ stride I’ve learned while barefoot and VFF running, my legs felt very heavy. Not a good sign.
Two laps I was able to determine the path was OK for VFF running. No big rock path obsticals, etc. So I changed into my KSO Vibrams and we were off and running again. I felt fresh – my legs were light again and within ten minutes the knot in my back was gone.
I hadn’t thought I would be able to finish the 20 mile run but after the third lap I knew I could – and I did. Time to incorporate more true barefoot runs in my training. The few miles I’ve run pure BF have helped my landing in footware of any kind a lot.
No matter what the distance is for the next race I sign u for – 5K, 10K, ½ or Full Marathon – I’ll be running it in my VFFs.
I’m just not paying $100 to do it. Can you believe the Rock n Roll marathon prices? Sheesh.
It appears yesterday’s run has left me with a minor ankle sprain. I felt it begin around mile 15 when I started landing on my heels hard at the end of my foot-falls. I had to consciously imagine each step I was taking in my run… was as if I was running through snow.
When all else fails – that image is what helps me maintain my proper (for now, what I think is proper) form while running in my VFFs. I do want to purchase CHI / POSE running books and DVDs, but that will have to wait until I have a job.
Maybe this week I will actually give barefoot running a shot. While I don’t have paved roads or sidewalks – the neighborhood across the way does.
I used to run barefoot as a kid and even into my teenage years through my backyard all the time. I really want to give it a shot.
In the meantime – four ibuprofen have numbed my foot. bliss.
Edit to add: I think I know where I initially hurt my ankle. When I volunteered for the Trail Run Marathon Saturday morning, I had to run a duffel bag that weighed at least 40 lbs out a mile to get the water to the marathoners for the first water drop.
Although I’m used to running that trail – I was NOT used to running with a very heavy duffel bag! I remember landing too hard at times.
… and then the long run on top of that… yep I was definitely landing too hard the end of my run. Live and Learn! At least it’s still a fun journey.
Sunday I ran around the West Watershed loop three times with my running partner. We met a mile out, ran to the parking lot… ran our three loops and then ran back where we met at the end.
The elevation is up & down and actually quite fun. Very different from our normal, mostly flat, out & backs at the Park.
I’m standing at the top of a different hill on this shot. I actually can’t access the trail ahead immediately from this spot – have to go around another mile to get there.
trail loop
This weekend I’m volunteering for a Trail marathon to be held here. I saw a lot of runners ‘practicing’ for the marathon on Sunday.
Exciting times!
This afternoon I meant to run about three to four miles. I don’t need my CamelBak for that short of distance so I filled my 22oz bottle of water not all the way full, wrapped a bandanna around my hand+bottle since I don’t have a fancy hand-held bottle at this time… and was off!
As I ran down the power-line trail, I decided to stay on it instead of veering off onto the running / horseback trail. Turns out I ran farther down the power-line road than I ever had before. And by down I really mean down steep!
By the time I reached the bottom of the power-line trail (mile 2) I figured I’d just keep going instead of turning back up. Although I enjoy running in my KSOs, I can only take so much limestone gravel at a time.
Miles 3 through 6 were a mix of street and sidewalk running. I was very pleased with my progress during mile 5-6, as I stayed a pretty consistent pace during the ascent.
down & up
I found the North trail entrance at mile 6. It was pleasant to duck back into the trees away from cars for the rest of my run. I encountered one other person… she looked like a runner who was walking a puppy off-leash on the trail. I don’t have a problem with that, but I feel like I should have reminded her this is a Bear, Cougar & Mtn Lion wildlife preserve. That puppy was so dang cute and definitely snack sized!
Throughout the run I would sip every so often on my water bottle, thinking how I’ve relied on my CamelBak for so long. I do like it – but maybe I should up the requirements of needing it on “long” runs. Nine miles used to be long… now my definition is more like 13? We’ll see.
On a VFF / KSO note: Since I thought I was going to run short, once again I failed to wear my Injinji socks. My KSOs are a size too big. Reason = I tried them on the day I ran 20 miles for the first time. Felt like I was getting a nice massage on my feet. mmmmm.
In the end, a couple new blisters showed up from the rubbing. I felt them starting up at mile 4. Maybe it’s a mental thing… ‘Mile 4’ being the magic “I need my socks!” number.
Good news is that the blisters have already gone down since I drained them (the safe way – I’m not letting blood blisters fester ever again) showered, applied lotion and socked up my footsies.
My form felt natural. Still need to relax and just let go sometimes.. hips forward, etc. The few times I walked I made sure I continued to pick my knees up. I think it’s time for me to read up on POSE/CHI walk+running.
round she goes!
And in the end: My water lasted me all the way to mile 9, where I finished off the last swig.
I used to not like water. Now it’s pretty much the only thing I drink. Cool, Clear, Water.
my Eternal Return 