[52] UK Destination Evaluation

My vacation is winding down, and shortly, it will be time to return to reality (and training). I had a lovely time in the lands of fish and chips, but I have been a bit lax about eating properly. No sooner do I arrive home, I will need to hit the ground running-- starting with moving into my new apartment.

[Races]

• Scotland: Thoroughly enjoyed the panoramic view of Edinburgh, greeting the Queen's swans, and having a fantastic time with my gal pal, Sarah with Race for Life. Learned that I will need to start working on fartleks if I ever intend on attempting a sprint finish without having my diaphragm chuck my lungs out through my throat.
• Ireland: I could smell the nature and loved the big scale feel for a small town community at the Enniscorthy Strawberry Half-Marathon series. Prior to my leaving Ireland, my host's son asked me when I was coming back. It may not be for a while, but I would certainly love to give that namesake half-marathon a go one day.

[Missed Opportunties]

• England: I looked forward to attempting my first official trail race, yet simply I ended up without a response to my inquiry. Bummer.
• Wales: Perhaps by the next time I cross the pond to the British Isles, I'll be bold enough to subject myself to a triathalon. Who knows? I could run into Pippa! If not, there's always the Llanelli Waterside 10K!
• Mid-summer Munro: Though it clocked at whopping 99% satisfaction rating by RWUK readers, I am still skeptical about participating in something which has been described as "more painful than childbirth."

I fully intended on investining in some pieces of British runwear, but backed out when I saw the price tags. Even items on sale were more expensive that US retail, so I elected to invest in the next best thing: sweets and whiskey.

[Magazine Reviews]

I will be schlepping home some new shiny running glossies courtesy of Runner's World UK and Irish Runner. Though the overall gist of these magazines are comparable to what I read in the US, it is nice to have some mementos of my excursion across the Atlantic Ocean. Picking them apart after reading them was quite enjoyable.

[Gear Test Drive]

GPS difficulties in Edinburgh and linking my finicky Polar WearLink+ Heart Rate Monitor aside, I am rapidly falling in love with my Nike+ GPS SportWatch. Prior to my trip, I received compliments from my colleagues, including on IronMan/Triathlete who took one look at it and said to his wife, "I want one, too!" I wanted to save my iPhone's battery in the event of an emergency, and receiving 10% the MSRP thanks to my beloved Westchester Road Runner Shop, I found this a worthwhile investment. Once I manage to log a few more runs and get the HRM linked, I intend on writing a more in-depth review.

I will say that it did surprise me while I was at Blarney Castle. I heard a beep and looked down. "Let's go for a run together, okay?" I feel like I invested in a DigiPet, and I am going to be doing all the work!

[Looking Forward]

July's racing card is heavy, and proper training will be essential for both physical and mental health. With work responisbilities being whittled down to my part-time day work only, I can structure a solid plan so as to prepare for the following:

• July 9th: Boomer's Cystic Fibrosis Run to Breathe 10K (8AM)
• July 16th: Central Park Conservancy's Run for Central Park (4Mi; 9AM)
• July 30th: Queens Half-Marathon (13.1Mi; 7AM)

With the heat and humidity of New York summer, I have the sneaking suspicion I will not be sleeping in this summer! I do look forward to raiding the PepsiCo Farmer's market for healthy goodies to treat myself to throughout the summer training process.

Alas, the one race I was hoping to wiggle into during my trip to Japan has sold out. The time I am traveling to the Far East coincides with a very spiritual time of year, but it is also traditionally one spent with families honoring one's ancestors. Bottom line: racing at "Obon" period is minimal. This means I will need to be motivated to kick myself out the door in the mornings and run solo. In Tottori, this should not prove to be a problem as after five years of living there, I can safely run without hesitation. It's just everywhere else, I will either need to discover a run club or find a running buddy.

Looks like I need to start chasing up the Nike Run Clubs in Japan!

[51] A Lil Pip in My Step

Pipsqueek's dirty little secret: trails and rails.

With the Royal Wedding in the history books, Pippa Middleton's moved onto greener pastures. Literally. In the wake of recent breakup and where do we find her? Competing and completing duathalons and triathalons! In the last month alone, she participated in the GE Blenheim Triathalon (June 4th; Woodstock, England)  and the Highland Cross 2011 (Jine 18th; Invitational Duathalon; Kintail to Beauly, Scotland).

I'm tired of the talk about Pippa's posterior and the simple suggestions some sites give about swimming and pilates. Take one looks at the girl's arms and you can tell that she's a long time athlete. Training for distance running takes time. Throwing added challenges of cycling and swimming into the mix is by no means a simple task. I have yet to graduate to this stage of endurance racing, so I am blown away by Little Middleton's accomplishments. 

I would be curious to see what training program she follows and if she is a Nike+ User. Looking at some of the pictures of the Duathalon, it appears she is using the same Gray/Pink Nike+ SportBand and Nathan Sensor Pocket that I have. I am certain that if she does use the Nike+ system, I am sure there could be a possible surge in users for those who are obsessed with following the Royals. Surveying her running gear, I do like that she is properly geared up for the events she is participating, including small details like racing gloves. From what I can tell is that New Balance 860s are her running shoe of choice as she is wearing them at both events.

If Runner's World UK could land an interview with her, it might pave the way for a new wave of younger female runners. I would fork out $7.99 (£4.50) for that issue, maybe even extra if they can get her to do a cover. She would be an interesting "I'm A Runner" interview. Honestly, I am curious to see what endurance race she chooses to participate in next or who's worthy to make her play list.

Oh, and her 5K time during the Blenheim Triathalon?

25'30".

[Referenced]

• "PM Completes Grueling 50-Mile Duathalon" (US Weekly UK)
• "Pippa Middleton Charity Race Pictures" (PopSugar)
• "Her Royal Even Hotterness!" (DailyMail UK)

[48] Deja Review

No sooner did my feet touch down in Heathrow Aiport, did I start seeking out a current issue of Runner's World UK. Every couple of months or so, I drop by my local bookseller and pick up a copy to read, but shipping it across the pond usually translates into reading an issue from two months prior. What better way to celebrate my arrival in the UK with the shiny July 2011 issue? I cringed at the £4.50 price tag, but after doing the math, I realized that $7.99 US wound up being cheaper! Before I hoist myself up onto my soapbox, allow me to delve into the bits of the British sister of the magazine I've grown to love.  

[Uniquely UK Edition]

"Human Race: Tourist Trot" (page 29): an interesting personal piece about how Sascha Cutura got in shape and elected to give running tours of his stomping grounds of Colchester. I love how he found a way to incorporate running into his career pursuit. Perhaps on my next trip to the UK, I'll lace up, drop by, and go for an educationally stimulating run.

"Tonky Talk: Runners Anonymous" (page 42) by Paul Tonkinson: A delightful, comedic piece about a conversation the author had with a drunken traveler in Calais. Touches upon addiction and how running should be outlawed as its a free means of getting a truly natural fix.

"Asics Super Six: The Road Ahead" (pages 58-59): RWUK selected six individuals from a applicant pool of over a thousand to coach (via the Asics Pro Team) for the 2011 Paris Marathon. This month's issue reveals their results and their future running goals. The goals range from a sub-3:00 to a sub-6:00 finish. The results are not yet posted on RW.co.uk

 (The Result)

"Marathon des Sables" (pages 60-65) by Alison Hamlett: I have deepened my respect for ultramarathonners, moreso for those who have tackled the 156 mile trek through the Sahara Desert. Hamlett documents her experience on what can only be described as epic. Tips, packing items, and a stage-by-stage breakdown of the event are included, but it certainly looks like an event I will never participate in. Ever.

"A Flying Start" (pages 66-69) by Michael Donlevy: with my first 10K (Boomer's Cystic Fibross Run to Breathe) rapidly arriving (July 9th), I found this article extremely informative. Having properly trained for 5Ks and half-marathons, I figured that since a 10K in somewhere in the middle, adjusting my training may not be necessary. I hope it goes live soon.

"Northern Star: Charlie Spedding" (pages 72-77) Having visited area around 'The Angel of the North' in Durham, England, I was excited to read about someone from an area of England of which I am now famliar. He recently realized an autobiography, From Last to First which I am curious to read, too. I particularly like his five tips for runners. P.S. I also have a fancy picture at the massive Angel of the North!!

"Inside Track: Born in the USA" (pages 86-87;89) by Sarah Shephard: Profiles Michael Bingham and Tiffany Ofili both American born Olympians who have chosen their English citizenship over their American, and the primary factors in moving across The Pond from North Carolina and Michigan respectively. I look forward to watching them block up against the US, Japan, and of course, Jamaica at the 2012 Olympics in London next summer.

"Event Editorial: Mud, Maidens, and Merry Men" (pages 99-100) by Ed Vanstone: Highlights the night time finale of the Notorious Night Runs Series in Sherwood Pines, Notts on April 2nd. The obstacle course-style, night run looks like a riot, complete with costumed runners (accessorized for safety, of course). Running through the woods in the Legends of Sherwood Forrest? I better pack my tights next time.

Now here is where things get a bit sketchy for me. One of the biggest things I adore about RW is their creative editorial photos and running related art work. Flicking through the pages, some of the images looked all too familiar. This is largely in part that some of the following articles from the UK July 2011 issue were some of my favorite articles from the last three months worth of US editions! I was a bit miffed when I realized that I had paid close to ten dollars for stuff I had sitting at home on my bookshelf. However, it has become a lovely travel souvenir, providing some new avenues of pursuit for this blog. As the following are available for readership on the Runner's World homepage and their related social medias, I would like to take the opportunity to dog ear them for your review:  

[Deja VUS Edition Materials]

1. "Better Together" by Liz Plosser (May 2011)
2. "The Perfect Week" by Jeff Galloway (April 2011)
3. "Power Surge" by Ed Eyestone (June 2011)
4. "The Golden Rules of Weight Loss" by Sarah Lorge Butler (April 2011)
5. "Can You Be Fit and Fat?" by Adam Bean (April 2011)
6. "Inner Workings: Marathon des Sables" by Matt Allyn (July 2010)
7. "Time to Rest" by Jayme Otto (June 2011)
8. "I'm A Runner: Bear Grylls" by Nancy Averett (May 2011)

Unrelated, I finally learned that "ASICS" is actually an anachronism for the Latin phrase "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano" or "a sound mind in a sound body" courtesy of a two page advert in the magazine. I do not remember ever seeing that explanation in any of the US advertisements (of I have been completely oblivious to them). So it's not just a catchy tagline. I am impressed by their development of a substantial brand.

I am milling over my posts for this trip and deliberating over what to write to the UK editors with reference to. Their "Letter of the Month" recipient receives a pair of Saucony Progrid Hurricane 12s (worth 105 GBP). I did not pack any wacky American clothes to take a photograph with the magazine, so I am wracking my brain at the moment for a glimmer of inspiration. I believe I may write just write a witty rehash of this post (as my readership is so limited). Thoughts?

[46] British Invasion

Summer vacation is so close, I can taste it! What does that mean precisely? My trip to the UK & Ireland has finally arrived! Although my racing wish list took a hit or two, I am still really excited about being able to experience racing, not only in a different country, but in a completely different part of the world! Granted, the UK is another English speaking country (the Queen's English to be precise, as opposed to Queens Boro English which is a completely different story ;) ). In the last three months, my destination running plans have chagned a big, but I believe for the better.

[Revised Race Rundown]

• England: Marston Forest 5K: Scrapped from the travel list. I never received a reply from the race director which was disappointing, as I wanted to take a stab at trail racing.
• Scotland: Jog Scotty -> Race for Life Edinburgh (Holyrood Park; June 19th @ Noon): I grew antsy waiting for JS to update their summer schedule, so I sought out another avenue for racing. It worked out for the best because 1) I found a race date within my travel dates, and more importantly 2) I am running it with one of gal pals from when I lived in Japan. One of our colleagues, Nicole, lost her battle to cancer last year, so we are running the race together in her memory. I love that I can share running with another one of my long time friends, especially one who ran before I took it up! I already have my racing number (#16574), so now I just have to pack accordingly.
• Ireland: Strawberry Festival 5 Mile Road Race (Riverside Park Hotel Promenade; June 26th @11AM): This race I am a little nervous about as my Couch Surfing requests have not been answered as of yet. I am keeping my fingers crossed, but worst case scenario, I'll hope some racers will take pity upon the pitiful, lost American girl.
• No headphones: Will need to use Nike+ SportBand & HRM.
• Only 1 water station at 2 mile mark: Hmm... may need to invest in running bottle
• Timed race with running chip
• All Finishers receive: a finisher's medal, technical t-shirt, and free tea and sandwiches at the HQ hotel!
• In conjunction with the Strawberry Festival, so there will be things to do before and after the race!

[19] Destination Running - UK Edition

In June, I am planning a trip to the UK shortly after work lets out. After a little inspiration from lululemon and Running Times, I elected to modify my initial travel goals. Out of curiosity, I ran a search for races in the UK, specifically near London. I have friends from my time in Japan living in various locations throughout the British Isles, so this would be a fantastic way to keep fit while on vacation. When I was home over Christmas, it was a 'Train-cation', but this would be a 'destination race-cation'! Being a subscriber to Runner's World, I opted to sign up for access to the Runner's World UK website as I am certain they are the most accurate and informative running website across the pond.

After school lets out in June, I am anticipating jetting across the Atlantic around the 15th (provide everything falls into place), and returning home on the 30th. Surprisingly, running will be taking a back seat on this trip as I want to spend time with my friends and explore the cities! This is why I'm electing to select shorter distance races for the time being. Extra kilometers (gotta use the metric system in EU) will certainly be logged as I lose myself in the cities and subways. Accommodation is my primary concern, but I am very tempted to try Couch Surfing so as to save money during my travels. If I am lucky, maybe someone will be willing to put me up for the night here and there. 

Tackling 4 races in four countries two weeks? Can I earn my Union Jack?

{England: 'Yank'in' Their Chains}
Yeah, so I've been to EuroLand twice and I've never been to England. I have also never attempted a trail race, so I would like to try the Marston Forest 5K (in Marston Moretaine, Bedford; Cost: £10.00) on Friday, June 17th. An evening race (7:30PM) through the English forest? It's very Robin Hood meets Red Riding Hood. Perhaps, I could run with my own little red hood... Hmm... The event site is about an hour and change from London, so staying over would be helpful as I have yet to research public transport.

{Scotland: Annie Grab Your Kilt} 
As the crux of the races listed on RW:UK are for England (or clashed with travel dates), I contacted Jog Scotty, the mascot for Jog Scotland, asking if Yanks could gate crash their races. I received a positive response, so now I am just waiting for the run schedule to be posted. There aren't any events listed which I can participate at this time, but hopefully one will crop up soon. It was indicated that some 5Ks will be added soon. Ideally, I would like to travel up to Edinburgh between London and Dublin.

{Ireland: Kiss My Blarney}
On Sunday, June 26th, I want to run the 5 Mile Race at the Enniscorthy Strawberry Festival (about an hour south of Dublin, Ireland; Cost: €19.50). There is a 15K Walk and the Half-Marathon on the same day with varied starting times, but if I plan on actually enjoying my time on the Emerald Isle after the race, I don't think either is a particularly good idea. Depending on when the Scotland race falls, I may be able to leave for Wales after the race, or I may have to go back to Dublin for a little more Paddywhacking.

{Wales: Whatta About Us?!}
I am having difficulty finding Welsh races, so I am debating on cutting Wales from the schedule. If I could manage it, I'd like to drop by en route back to London prior to departure. If I cannot find a race, maybe I can just stop by ran run somewhere near Swansea. There is a ferry from Rosslare, Ireland (35 minutes south of Enniscorthy) to Pembroke, Wales (near Swansea; two hours by rail), so that is one option. The train haul back to London would be 5 hours, but I am sure I could sleep during that time.

I was very, very tempted to sign up for the The Midsummer Munro, but I found the branding of it as "Britain's Hardest Half" ridiculously daunting. Reading the thread discussion at Runner's World UK, I find it frightening as "the male equivalent of child birth", so again... not too stoked about this idea. If I plan on enjoying my vacation, I would like my legs to still be attached and functional by the time I get on the plane to fly home. Maybe one I tackle some more trail races, I may have the confidence to attempt something like this.