1. I did not get sick this year. *Hallelujah Chorus*
2. I did get two black toenails. *First Timer Toes*
3. This was my third consecutive year at this race.
4. First time I've visited the medical tent at a race.
I wrote the first three thoughts because that is what I will remember most about this race. As I have written in year's past, this is an absolutely gorgeous route in St. Petersburg, Florida, along the waterfront. No complaints whatsoever about location, route or course amenities. As for the sickness... at last year's race several of us got quite ill from Gatorade at the 2nd stop. We were picked up by the trail car at mile 8. Five days without solid food and continual nausea is not something one forgets or looks forward to repeating... and yes, I did drink Gatorade at the race this year. I slowly taste-tested before downing it all and discovered what I suspected last year. The organizers use the powdered mix and the strength will vary based on the 'mixer'. Watered down, too sugary, just right... you get the idea. I am now a cautious consumer with the powdered version as I believe too much powder at a lukewarm temperature stored several days in advance can produce sickness. My .02 regarding a lesson learned.
The toenails you ask? New shoes. Love my new shoes. Guy at the running store warned me to go a half size up. Obviously, I went for the "pretty". Now I know. This pair won't be 'going the distance' again. They are banned to 5Ks only.
One of the unique (many, many unique) things about this all women's race are the medals we receive at the finish line. Each has a detachable charm that can be worn as a necklace or (new item this year) on a bracelet. Runners that complete three events at the same location OR run three of the Women's Half Marathons in the same calendar year receive a special charm in addition to the finisher's medal. These are mailed out about 6-8 weeks after final results are posted. I am thrilled to be a 'three-peat' this year!
The medical tent was a whim.. a much needed whim. For whatever reason, my hands swell enormously during a race (the pic below shows swollen hands / arms AFTER the doctor's review). This was the first time the swelling had gone up to my elbows and the first time I could not completely close my hands (swelling too large for that much movement). Two nurses and a doctor reviewed it. Nurses were clueless, doc was intrigued. Not something most see often, not life threatening provided heart rate and other areas are not affected (feet, legs). The doctor said it is called exercise-induced anaphylaxis. He prescribed an immediate treatment of ♫ Raise Your Hands ♫. No, I'm not kidding.
I sat in a medical tent, pouring sweat, with arms raised high in the air while being stared at from the curious onlookers. Again, this isn't a common ailment and the swelling is quite obvious. I will also point out, I did not run this race. I walked. Long term diagnosis? Buy compression arm bands for longer distances. Now I know. I
will also mention that opinions, specifically medical opinions, on this
topic vary. There are articles on the LiveStrong website and several
medical blogs that will offer varying reviews. I am hoping that weight loss will affect this.. reduction in fluids creating less reaction.
Organizers also offered an early 2013 registration discount this year on 12-12-12 only. Runners could register for ANY of the 2013 Women's Half Marathon races for $65. Needless to say, I'm registered and loving the discount opportunity for such a fantastic event!
Kudos to the management group for all their support and looking forward to the 2013 race!
