Running for Hope and a Cure

Last year, Karen Cole was celebrating her best friend Eve’s upcoming nuptials. That happiness was dealt a cruel twist – a few weeks before the wedding Eve was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

To honor her friend and support her fight against the disease, Karen made a commitment to run and raise money for cancer research with Team in Training (TNT). Over the past year, Karen has achieved a lot. She’s run 3 half-marathons and her first marathon while raising more than $5,000 dollars. Karen documented her experiences at her blog The Purple Train.

Karen and I work together at UPS and I’ve admired her athletic accomplishments and devotion to her friend. We recently sat down together to talk about her journey over the past year.

How long have you been a runner?
I’ve always been involved in sports, particularly soccer, but didn’t start running until 5 years ago. My first race experience was the 10K Classic. However, I didn’t start becoming a serious runner until joining TNT. Growing up, my mom was a big marathon runner so it’s funny to think that I didn’t start running sooner.

What was your experience like with TNT? How did it help you prepare for your goals?
When I originally committed to running and raising money, I felt uncertain about my ability to actual complete a race. I’m not sure if would have been possible without the support and friendship from my teammates with TNT. The group atmosphere and bonds I developed with other runners striving toward a common cause was a huge motivator. The TNT program helps runners stay consistent and committed to training for races. I started with the program the week before Thanksgiving in 2009 and ran my first fundraising race at the ING Georgia Half-Marathon.

Why did you choose to start a blog to share your experience?
My friend Eve started a blog to chronicle her treatment. It turned out to be a meaningful way for her friends to stay connected to her experience without having to ask for an update each time we saw her. Her courage and openness inspired me to write my own blog.

You ran the Nike Women’s Marathon in October. What was your training like?
This was my first marathon and we started the training program in May. It was a hot summer in Atlanta and the heat was incredibly difficult to handle at times. Regardless of the weather, I stayed committed and my coach Ed Ferrell kept me motivated. Ed really helped me prepare physically and emotionally for running the marathon distance. Over time, it helped me develop confidence in my ability to persevere. Long runs took place on Saturdays and the TNT team typically started out around 8 a.m. Sunday was a cross-training or rest day. During the work week, I’d meet up with my training partner Carol around 6 p.m. for 4 to 6 mile runs at the Alpharetta Greenway. The TNT team also met on Wednesdays at the Suwanee Greenway for evening runs.

So, how was your first marathon?
It was an amazing experience. The Nike Women’s Marathon is a huge event for TNT and it was inspiring to see so many TNT runners in their purple apparel. The weather started out as chilly and overcast – which wasn’t bad. But when I reached the 13-mile mark, it started raining and the temperature dropped. Around the same time, a knee issue started triggering some pain. With the rain, chilly weather and knee pain, it turned out to be the toughest running experience that I had encountered. But I made it to the end and it became a valuable lesson on perseverance.

How is your friend Eve doing?
She’s continuing her battle with cancer and on her second round of chemotherapy, but she remains hopeful. Eve is one of the most positive and willful people I know, and the great thing about her is that she finds the light in every situation. She's had to endure incredibly difficult physical and emotional challenges in the past year, and I admire her so much for her courage.

What’s next for you?
Unfortunately, I learned that my knee pain was the result of torn cartilage. I’m having surgery in January and hope to return to the Nike Women’s Marathon in 2011.

Product Review: Sorbothane Insoles

I love insoles. I really do. The comfort, support and cushioning that insoles provide make my feet feel great.

I was recently offered an opportunity to review a pair of insoles from Sorbothane. Here’s my disclaimer: I received one pair of insoles for free to review plus two pairs of sole cushions for dress shoes. I’m under no obligation to publish my review, and the opinions that I share are based on my experience. O.K -- so now for my review.

I received the insoles a few days after running the ING Georgia Half-Marathon. I ran the race with the standard insoles in my Adidas shoes. And I got a blister during the race. I tried out the Sorbothane SorboAir insoles and found them to be really comfortable. I felt an immediate difference in the feel of my shoes. The cushioning left my feet feeling more supported during my run. I’m someone who likes a lot of arch support in my running shoes, which is probably why I’m a big fan of insoles. I haven’t tested the cushions for dress shoes and I don’t plan to write about them since this blog is dedicated to running.

So what do others have to say? You can read more reviews at Zappos.com.

Wonder why manufacturers don't put better insoles in their running shoes? Here's what I learned when I explored this topic last year.

Happy running!

Mother Nature was Kind to ING Georgia Runners

To rain or not rain … that was the question frustrating me all week. The forecast was not looking good for runners racing in the ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon. Fortunately, weather reports are not a guarantee. While the skies looked gloomy, the mild temperature and light drizzle made for ideal running weather.

Over 18,000 runners hit the streets of downtown Atlanta early this morning. This is my 3rd year running the ING Georgia and I’m glad to see continued improvements in how the event is managed. The corrals were well organized and we moved quickly to the starting line. The crowds of spectators seemed lighter than in previous years but they were a welcomed sight. My favorite was the choir of gospel singers in the Old 4th Ward. I sure could have used those ladies singing a few hallelujahs for me around the 11-mile mark. This year my training was pretty lackluster but I surprised myself my keeping a steady, strong pace. Though my legs were aching by the 11th mile, I had enough energy and willpower to pick-up my pace during the final stretches of the race. My finish time for the half-marathon was 2:04:05 – nearly the same as last year (when my training was much stronger).

Make no mistake, this is a big event to organize and it requires lots of volunteers, police officers, equipment and food. I’m grateful for all the folks who chose to give up their Sunday morning so I could run this race. Everyone was pleasant and did their best to be helpful. The course is fantastic, taking you on a tour of some of Atlanta’s most picturesque and historic neighborhoods.

March is a tricky time of year to host a race in Atlanta. Temperatures can be sunny and 70°F or snowy and 30°F. The ING Georgia organizers lucked out this year. Hopefully their good luck will continue.

Want to repeat the fun? Sign-up for the 2011 race opens Tuesday, March 23rd with a 50% discount on the entry fee for the first 200 registrants and a 40% discount for the next 200. Any one who registers by March 30 will automatically receive a 30% discount on the entry fee.

Chocolate Milk Does the Runner’s Body Good

Like a lot of runners, I typically reach for a Gatorade or a cold glass of water after a run. Not any more. I’m now turned on to the benefits of chocolate milk as the ultimate post-run recovery drink. Who knew a childhood favorite would deliver essential nutrients for runners?

Runners need a combination of protein and carbs within 30 minutes of a run to refuel and repair muscles. And chocolate milk offers the perfect balance of these nutrients. Liz Applegate, Ph.D., touts the importance of milk for runners in the January issue of Runner’s World. I’ve never been much of a milk drinker, but now I try to get a few servings every day to gain the benefits that this vitamin-packed elixir offers.

If you’re training for the ING Georgia Race (like me) or another long-distance event, it’s important to get nutrients that restore your muscles. And chocolate milk is an ideal way to help your body recover from a hard workout.

As mom always said, drink your milk – it’s good for you!

This week’s route is one of my favorite runs around Druid Hills. It’s a good training run for the ING Georgia Half-Marathon. You can find the route at Map My run under my group Atlanta Running.



Decatur to Druid Hills – 11 Mile Route

· Start at Fellini’s, located at the corner of Commerce and Sycamore Place
· Stay on Sycamore Place, running past Fellini’s
· Turn right on Howard Ave
· Stay on Howard and run past Decatur H.S. and East Lake Marta Station
· Turn right on Ridgecrest
· Turn left on McClendon Ave
· Stay on McClendon until you reach Little Five Points
· Turn right on Moreland Ave
· Stay on Moreland and cross Ponce de Leon Ave
· Moreland turns into Briarcliff· From Briarcliff, turn right on N. Decatur Rd
· Turn right on Springdale
· Stay on Springdale and cross Ponce de Leon
· Turn left on Ponce de Leon and take it back to Downtown Decatur
· Turn right on Church St
· Turn left on Sycamore St
· Turn right on Sycamore Place
· Turn left on Commerce
· At College, turn left and run back up Commerce to Fellini’s

Atlanta Road Races Galore in February and March

There are nearly 30 road races taking place around metro Atlanta – from Madri Gras fun runs to the ING Georgia Marathon. Here’s an overview of some the races:

Chattahoochee Challenge 10K – February 6
Believe it or not, it’s not too soon to get a qualifying time for July’s Peachtree Road Race. The Chattahoochee Challenge boasts a flat, fast course along the river. Online registration is closed but you can still sign-up at Big Peach Running Co. locations.

Front Page News’ Madri Gras Half-Fast 5K – February 13
If ever there was a “fun run” this is it. Runners race through Atlanta’s lovely Candler Park neighborhood. The race ends a short distance from Front Page News where discounts and celebratory drinks are on hand. Register online at Active.com or at Phidippides’ Ansley Mall store.

KSU Owls Making Stride 5K – February 20
Kennesaw State plays host to this on-campus event. The race starts and ends near the school’s convocation center. Runners and volunteers receive 4 free tickets to the KSU women’s basketball game, which follows post-race festivities. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

Run Thru the Forest 5K – February 27
In its 2nd year, this Smyrna race raises funds for the Georgia Transplant Foundation. The American Legion hosts a post-race breakfast for $6. Registration is available at Active.com or at Big Peach Running Co.

Red Devil Dash 5K – March 6
Help support high school sports. The race benefits the Phillip Hicks Memorial Scholarship Fund and the booster club for Druid Hills High’s soccer team. Register in advance at Active.com or on-site on the day of the race.

O’Highlands Jig & Jog 5K – March 13
Here’s a neighborhood event that welcomes everybody … runners, walkers, strollers, and dogs. In the holiday mood? Wear an Irish-themed costume for a chance to win $25. Stick around after the race for prize drawings. Sign-up at Phidippides or online at Active.com.

Tour DeCatur 5K – March 13
Celebrating its 8th year, Tour DeCatur is an annual fundraiser for the Decatur Education Foundation. Along with the 5K, there’s also a 1-mile run/walk and a tot trot. The race starts and ends at Decatur High School. Register online at the event site.

Shamrock ‘N Roll Road Race – March 14
Hit the streets of Atlantic Station with the Junior League of Atlanta. The 10K race is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. Want to bring a friend? Dogs and strollers are welcomed. There’s no onsite registration so be sure to sign-up in advance. You can do so at Active.com.

ING Georgia Marathon & Half-Marathon – March 21
It’s the big race of the season. Thousands of runners will race through some of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods - Inman Park, Little Five Points, Decatur, Druid Hills and Virginia Highlands. Routes for both races are available at the event site. Registration is available at Active.com and at the race expo.

West Stride and Phidippides Offer Free Training Program for ING Georgia

Plan to run the ING Georgia this year? Don’t train alone.

Last year, I trained for the half-marathon with Girls on the Run at West Stride. Owner Genie Beaver was a terrific host, offering free coffee and baked goods, route maps and prize drawings.

This year, West Stride and Phidippides have teamed up with Adidas to offer the Fit for ING Training Program. Each store alternates hosting group runs on Saturdays at 8:00 a.m. Along with routes that feature water stops, Olympian Todd Williams will be on hand to offer training tips. After each run, take advantage of the free coffee and food. You can find the schedule for group runs at both West Stride and Phidippides’s web sites. The next run takes place this Saturday at West Stride’s location.

This week’s route comes from West Stride’s group page at MapMyRun. You’ll find a lot of good long routes for half-marathon training.

Still Time to Save on ING Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon

Have you been procrastinating about signing-up for the race? Me too. So, I was glad to get an e-mail this week from Active.com with a coupon code to save on the registration fee. With the coupon, you save $20 off the marathon or $10 off the half-marathon. But you’ll need to hurry – the coupon offer expires on Thursday, January 14.

Here are the codes:
· Marathon – 10SP20
· Half-Marathon – 10SP10

I’ll be posting more news about the ING Georgia race at the blog later this week. Until then, happy running.

New Half-Marathon Series in Atlanta

If you ran the ING Georgia Marathon/Half-Marathon, you probably received an e-mail promoting a new road race coming to Atlanta. The 13.1 Marathon hits Atlanta on October 4. It promises to be lively, with southern rock bands along the race course. If you’ve never run a half-marathon, you may want to check out this event. It’s geared towards novice runners and walkers. The course is a bit odd – running from Oglethorpe University to Perimeter Mall and back, with a good portion of the route along Ashford-Dunwoody Road. It’s not as picturesque as the ING Georgia course, but it’s convenient if you live in Buckhead or Brookhaven. The cost is $55 if you register by August 20. Afterwards, the cost goes up to $70.

ING Georgia Race Report

After four days of rain in Atlanta, runners were grateful to have dry skies for the third annual ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon. The morning was cold and windy and it wasn’t much better as the day progressed. Despite the winter-like temperatures, the course was fun and the spectators were rowdy. Located near three MARTA stations, Centennial Park was a convenient spot to host the race start and finish. I was glad to run the first five miles with my friend Kelly. Since we’re both busy moms, it provided a perfect opportunity to catch up. Unfortunately for Kelly, she was suffering from a knee injury and had to exit the race at Inman Park. Although I missed by goal finish time by 2 minutes, I was still pleased with my results. I completed the race in 2:01:40 – nearly 15 minutes faster than my race time two years ago. My energy level was strong until the last mile, but by that point I quickened my pace through sheer determination to reach a respectable finish time.

I ran the half-marathon with Team Tiara to support Girls on the Run (GOTR) Atlanta. Through its running programs, GOTR fosters self-confidence and a healthy lifestyle among girls aged 8 to 13. Programs are offered at local schools, YMCAs, and Girls, Inc. sites. Thanks to the generosity of family and friends, I raised $283 for GOTR Atlanta. My commitment to support GOTR added a meaningful aspect to the race for me. It gave me an opportunity to meet other local women runners and help an organization that provides a valued program to our community.

This week’s route is the ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon course. It travels through some of the best Atlanta neighborhoods – Inman Park, Sweet Auburn, Decatur, Druid Hills, Virginia-Highlands and Midtown. You’ll find a map for the route at the ING Georgia site.

Race Plan for ING Georgia

With the ING Georgia Half-Marathon just a week away, I had my last long run today before the race. During my run, I started to think through my plans for race day. Travel to the race was easy to decide – MARTA’s the only logical choice. But I needed to give some further consideration on what to eat and not eat.

While a big cup of coffee is what I’ll crave, I’m opting for other choices. Slow-digesting carbs like oatmeal seem to be the best option. I recently read that sports drinks consumed before runs help sustain energy levels longer than water or other beverages.

Here’s my plan:

· Wake-up early enough to make oatmeal with walnuts
· Wash it down with G2 sports drink
· Take prescription anti-inflammatory pill to reduce swelling on knee
· Carry 2 packets of Luna Moons to refuel my energy
· New socks and insoles to cushion my feet
· Thick layers of Aquaphor for those spots that easily chafe

The Virtues of Running in the Rain

With the ING Georgia Half-Marathon only two weeks away, I had little choice but to tough it out and run today. To be honest, I was not a big fan of running in rainy weather. Wet clothes and even wetter feet was not a pleasant thought. I became slightly more open minded to the idea when I remembered the great blog post from Beth Moore at Traxee.com about why she loves running in the rain.

Once I got outside and settled into a pace, it wasn’t so bad. In fact, it was rather refreshing. Rain provides a much needed cleansing of Atlanta’s notoriously smoggy air. The air was clear and easy to breath. I also found that I didn’t get quite as soaked as I imagined. Traffic was light and the temperature was cool yet comfortable. Only towards the end did the wetness start to bother me, but I kept thinking about the hot shower and coffee I’d enjoy soon.

Lesson learned today – don’t be so quick to judge an unfamiliar circumstance. Every situation has a few good points.

This week’s route is the 9-miler I ran today. It travels through Decatur, Candler Park, Little Five Points and Druid Hills. You’ll find a map for the route at Map My Run under my group Atlanta Running.

Decatur to Little Five Points – 9 miles

· Start at Fellini’s at Commerce St. and Sycamore Place
· Turn right at Howard Ave.
· Stay on Howard/Dekalb Ave. for approximately 2 miles. Pass the East Lake Marta Station
· Turn right on Ridgecrest Rd.
· Turn left on McClendon Ave.
· Stay on McClendon for approximately 2 miles. Pass Flying Biscuit Café and Candler Park.
· Turn right on Moreland Ave.
· Turn right on Ponce de Leon Ave.
· Take Ponce de Leon Ave. through Druid Hills
· Turn right at Clairmont Ave and head towards Downtown Decatur
· Turn left on Commerce
· Take Commerce back to Fellini’s

March Kicks Off a Great Season of Atlanta Road Races

March marks the start of spring and the promise of warmer weather and longer days. Over 25 races give Atlanta runners an opportunity to celebrate the change of season.

Chattahoochee Road Runners 10K – Saturday, March 7
Considered one of Atlanta’s fastest 10Ks this is a great race to run if you’re looking for a qualifying time for the Peachtree Road Race.

O’Highlands Jig & Jog 5K – Saturday, March 14
This St. Patty’s themed race encourages runners to get in the spirit by dressing in Irish attire. The best costume wins $25.

Jog for a Cause – Saturday, March 14
This event features a 5K, 10K and 1-mile fun run. The 10K is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. Proceeds benefit organizations that address childhood cancer.

ShamRock N’ Roll Road Race – Sunday, March 15
Located at Atlanta Station, this race offers both a 5K and a 10K that’s a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. Strollers and dogs are welcomed.

Tour Decatur – Saturday, March 21
Runners enjoy a 5K race through the picturesque neighborhoods of Decatur. The event also includes a 1-mile fun run and a Tot Trot. Proceeds benefit the Decatur Education Foundation.

ING Georgia Marathon/Half-Marathon – Sunday, March 29
March ends with the big one – the ING Georgia. This race offers one of the best tours of Atlanta on foot. Runners pass through Inman Park, Decatur, Virginia-Highlands, Midtown and Downtown.

Check out Run Georgia for a comprehensive list of road races across the state.

This week’s route is the course for Saturday’s Chattahoochee Road Runners 10K. You can find a map of the course at the club’s web site.

· Start on Mt. Vernon Highway, in front of the Waffle House and just east of Sandy Springs
Circle.
· Head west on Mt. Vernon Highway (just past 3 miles)
· The turn around is just before Northside Drive
· Head east on Mt. Vernon Highway (approx 5.5 miles)
· Turn right onto Hammond Drive (approx .5 miles)
· Turn right onto Sandy Springs Circle (all downhill)
· End at Lake Forest Elementary

Great Day to Run with Team Tiara

While the weather still feels like winter, sunny skies added a touch of spring to this morning's run with Team Tiara. We persevered through 11 miles of very hilly neighborhoods near West Stride running store. There are only 5 short weeks left to the ING Georgia Half-Marathon. I'm hoping to have a couple of good 13-mile runs before race day.

Since West Stride won't be hosting group runs during the next 2 weekends, I'll shift my training back to familar routes in Decatur and Druid Hills. It will also be a good time to check out Saturday runs hosted at Decatur's running stores.

Fundraising through Facebook

As part of my participation in this year’s ING Georgia Half-Marathon, I decided to join Team Tiara to raise money for Girls on the Run Atlanta (GOTR). Through its running programs, GOTR fosters self-confidence and a healthy lifestyle among young girls. Girls ages 8 to 13 are eligible to participate. Programs are offered at local schools, YMCAs, and Girls, Inc. sites. As a mother of a young girl, I can really relate to the ideals of this organization.

By joining Team Tiara, I’m committed to raising at least $262 for Girls on the Run. It’s been quite a while since I’ve had to solicit money for a race. In the past, I would have pleaded for donations from family members or co-workers through phone calls or posters displayed in my office. This time, I’m going to turn to Facebook. Since joining the social networking site last year, I’ve re-connected with college and high school friends to grow my personal network to over 100 people. If just half of my Facebook friends contribute $10 each, I’ll raise $500. The Facebook e-mail is going out today. Wish me luck.

If you like this blog, please consider helping me support Girls on the Run by donating at my fundraising page.

This week’s route is the 11-mile route I ran this morning from West Stride. You can find the route at Map My Run under my group Atlanta Running.

· Start from West Stride and run south (toward I-75) on Northside Pkwy.
· Turn right on West Paces Ferry and cross the street at the crosswalk
· Turn left on Nancy Creek Rd.
· Head straight on Nancy Creek and cross W. Wesley Rd.
· Turn right on Ridgewood Rd.
· Cross W. Wesley Rd (the road is a loop)
· Turn left on W. Wesley Rd
· Turn right on Rivermeade Ln
· Turn left on Rivermeade Dr.
· Turn left on Rivermead Way
· Turn right on Nancy Creek Rd.
· Turn left on Ridgewood Rd.
· Turn right on Nancy Creek Rd
· Turn left on Ridgewood Rd
· Turn left on Ridgewood Terr
· Turn left on Moores Mill
· Turn left on Peachtree Battle
· Turn right on Margaret Mitchell Dr.
· Turn left on Ridge Valley Rd.
· Turn left on Sequoyah Dr
· Turn right on W. Wesley Rd.
· Turn left into Westminster complex
· Turn right at first road (no street name) and follow through complex
· Turn right on W. Paces Ferry
· Turn left on Northside Pkwy.
· End at West Stride

Six Degrees of Separation

Last night, I watched the Science Discovery show “Connected Power of Six Degrees”. It talked about the science of networks and how mathematicians are discovering that we’re all linked through “hubs” which connect us – essentially six degrees from each other. The internet is a great example of this phenomenon, where sites like Google, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter serve as hubs that link people to both content and each other on the web.

So, you’re probably wondering what this has to do with running. Well, it got me thinking about how I’ve become connected with runners across the country through my blog and Twitter account. Runners tend to be social people and enjoy sharing their passion for the sport with others. I’ve agonized with women runners at Traxee.com through our stories about dealing with injuries. I’ve laughed at the adventures that runners chronicle on their blogs. And I’ve followed the daily observations and activities of runners at Twitter. Last week, I connected with a former Atlanta resident who recently moved to Baltimore and started his own running blog Meep Meep. We used to rely on running groups and road races to meet other runners. Now, with the wide use of online sites and applications, you don’t have to slip your shoes on for an early morning meet-up to connect with people who share a passion for running.

If you’re training for the ING Georgia, here’s a great, scenic to run. You’ll find a map for the route at Map My Run under my group Atlanta Running.

Decatur to Little Five Points – 8.16 miles

· Start at Fellini’s at Commerce St. and Sycamore Place
· Turn right at Howard Ave.
· Stay on Howard/Dekalb Ave. for approximately 2 miles. Pass the East Lake Marta Station
· Turn right on Ridgecrest Rd.
· Turn left on McClendon Ave.
· Stay on McClendon for approximately 2 miles. Pass Flying Biscuit Café and Candler Park.
· Turn right on Moreland Ave.
· Turn right on Ponce de Leon Ave.
· Take Ponce de Leon Ave. through Druid Hills to Downtown Decatur
· Once in Downtown Decatur, turn right on Church St.
· Turn left on Sycamore St.
· Turn right on Sycamore Place
· Cross Commerce St. and return to Fellini’s parking lot

Train for ING Georgia at West Stride

While I don’t normally like to venture far from my neighborhood to run, I woke up early this morning to check out the 8 a.m. group runs at West Stride. The drive across Atlanta was worth it. Over 40 runners showed up for training runs for the ING Georgia Marathon and Half-Marathon. Genie Beaver, owner of West Stride, really knows how to pamper runners. Prior to hitting the road, Genie offered free energy supplements to sample, including Jelly Belly Sports Beans, Hammer and Gu. Post run, we were treated to hot coffee, fruit salad and breakfast breads. Runners were also offered a chance to chat with the Adidas rep and try out the Supernova Glide.

Next week, West Stride will host group runs for 8-mile and 16-mile routes. Both the Mizuno ING Pace Team and the Chattahoochee Road Runners will be on hand. Post run, orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine expert Dr. Thomas Myers will offer advice on running injury prevention and treatment.

If you plan to run the ING Georgia, consider joining Team Tiara. It’s a fundraising effort that supports Girls on the Run (GOTR), which fosters self-confidence and a healthy lifestyle for girls through its running programs. Team Tiara hosts its next group training run at West Stride on February 21st.

This week’s route is the 6.4-mile run from West Stride. You can find the route at Map My Run under my group Atlanta Running.

· Start from West Stride and run south (toward I-75) on Northside Pkwy.
· Turn right on West Paces Ferry and cross the street at the crosswalk
· Turn left on Nancy Creek Rd.
· Head straight on Nancy Creek and cross W. Wesley Rd.
· Turn left on Ridgewood Rd.
· Turn left on Ridgewood Terr.
· Turn left on Moores Mill
· Turn left on Peachtree Battle
· Turn right on Margaret Mitchell Dr.
· Turn left on Ridge Valley Rd.
· Turn right on Wesley Pkwy.
· Turn left on Margaret Mitchell Dr.
· Turn left on W. Wesley Rd.
· Turn right into Westminster complex
· Turn right at first road (no street name) and follow through complex
· Turn right on W. Paces Ferry
· Turn left on Northside Pkwy.
· End at West Stride

Think Fun for Running Races

If you follow my blog, you’ll know that I’ve spent several weeks sidelined with Runner’s Knee. Now that I’m working my way back to running, I’ve got road races on my mind. Here are a few races I’d love to run:

Disney’s Princess Half-Marathon
This inaugural race is the latest in the series of endurance events hosted at Walt Disney World. What could be more fun than running around through Disney? Scheduled for March 8 (a great time of year to run in Florida), it promises to offer an exciting and inspirational weekend for women runners of all ages. You can connect with other Disney-bound runners at disneyrunning.com.

Marathon/Half-Marathon Oasis De Montreal
Enjoy the atmosphere of Paris without the jet lag. As a qualifying race for Boston, the course runs through the picturesque neighborhoods and famous sites of Montreal. It ends inside Olympic Stadium, where runners enter through its historical Marathon’s gate. What a memorable way to experience a Bruce Jenner moment.

Chicago Half-Marathon
With its collection of amazing architecture, Chicago is one of my favorite cities. This race offers a great way to combine site-seeing with running. The route runs along Lake Shore Drive, through Jackson Park and the University of Chicago campus. It’s considered a very popular event for long-distance runners.

Mardi Gras Marathon & Half-Marathon
New Orleans is a magical city and Mardi Gras season is an exceptionally festive time to visit. The race takes place two weeks before the first Madri Gras parade, but it helps kick-off the celebrations for the annual party. The course travels through the Garden District and Audubon Park.

ING Georgia Half-Marathon
Looking a little closer to home, I loved the route for the race when I ran it in 2007. Spring is a beautiful season in Atlanta and this race route travels through some of the great intown Atlanta neighborhoods. If things go well with my recovery, I’ll be running this race to raise money for Girls on the Run.

This week’s route comes from WalkJogRun.net. It’s a 5-mile run through Virginia-Highlands and Midtown.

· Start at the corner of Amsterdam Ave and Monroe Dr.
· Run down Amsterdam and turn right on Brockridge Dr.
· Veer left and stay on Brockridge Dr.
· Veer onto Glen Arden Way
· Turn right on N. Highland Ave.
· Turn right on Ponce de Leon Ave.
· Turn right on Lakeview Ave
· Run along Midtown Place and Midtown Promenade
· Turn right on Monroe Dr.
· End at Monroe Dr. and Amsterdam

Support Girls on the Run

On Thursday, I attended an event for Girl on the Run (GOTR) at the home of Erin Wolf. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the important work of this organization and to meet other women runners. While most of us are familiar with the growing health issues that children face due to the lack of proper eating and physical activity, I was a bit stunned by some of the statistics that Erin shared. Girls that are involved with sports are significantly less likely to engage in harmful activities, like drugs, alcohol, tobacco and sex. They are also more likely to have a strong sense of self-esteem. As a mother of a young girl, these statistics are alarming. I want my daughter to grow up confident, healthy, and happy.

Through its running programs, GOTR fosters self-confidence and a healthy lifestyle among young girls. Girls ages 8 to 13 are eligible to participate. Programs are offered at local schools, YMCAs, and Girls, Inc. sites.

Runners can support GOTR by participating in its Team Tiara program. It’s a great opportunity to train with other runners for the ING Georgia Marathon/Half-Marathon and raise funds for GOTR. Runners of any age, gender, or ability are encouraged to participate. If you’d like to support GOTR through Team Tiara, you can set-up a fundraising page at Active.com. You can also support GOTR by donating at my fundraising page. I'm committed to raising at least $262.

This week’s route is a 3.5-mile run through Piedmont Park and the Ansley Park neighborhood. You can find the route at Map My Run under my group Atlanta Running.

• Start at the Piedmont Park entrance on 10th St. and Charles Allen Dr.
• Turn right on 10th St., heading towards Piedmont Ave.
• Turn right on Piedmont Ave.
• Turn left on 15th St.
• Follow 15th St. to Peachtree Circle
• Turn right on Peachtree Circle
• Turn right on The Prado
• Veer left onto Maddox Dr.
• Turn right on Park Lane
• Cross Piedmont Ave. and enter the park (by the entrance for the Atlanta Botanical Garden)
• Follow the path through the park and end at 10th St. and Charles Allen Dr.