Devilbend Half Marathon 2016

Devilbend Half Marathon 

http://www.devilbend.com

The Mornington Peninsula Athletic Club invites you to come down and join the action. Bring the family and make a day of it exploring the beautifully reinvigorated Devilbend Natural Features Reserve. There are a variety of distances - 5km, 10km, 21.1km and a new Kids Mile.

What time do events start?

8:30am Kids Mile event, under 13s only

8:45am Devil parade (best devils will have entry fee refunded).

8:40am Warm up with MG fitness

9:00am Start 21.1km

9:10am Start 10km

9:20am Start 5km

10:30am Presentations

Do I get a medal? 

All finishers in all events will receive a medal

When will I receive my race bib?

If you register before 15 July then you can chose to receive your race bib by post.  This will be sent approximately 2 weeks before the event. Everyone else can collect their bib from 1pm to 3pm on Saturday 6 August or from 7am on race day.  Bibs can be collected from the registration tent at Devilbend Natural Features reserve.

Your timing chip is attached to your race bib, must be worn throughout the event and clearly visible on your front.

Results

Electronic timing equipment is used to ensure accurate results can be made available online within 24 hours of the event.  We do everything possible to get everyone's time correct, however if you spot something wrong please send an email to info@devilbend.com so we can fix it.

Drinks on course

Water and electrolyte drinks will be provided approximately every 2.5km.  Fruit will be provided at the finish.

Parking

The beauty of this event is its rural setting.  Unfortunately parking on rural dirt roads is limited.  Please download and read the participants booklet for all details re parking. 

Where – Devilbend Natural Features Reserve, Graydens Road, Turing 

When - Sunday 7 August 2016.  

Half marathon participants will complete the course twice, with a slight extension along Derril Road on the second lap. Starting on Graydens Road you will head west over the reservoir bridge and turn left onto Derril Road. Once you reach the turnaround point for your event you will return back past the start line, turn right into Devilbend Natural Features Reserve and complete a clockwise loop of the reserve.  The finish line is inside the reserve near the main picnic area.  The surface is predominately dirt roads and gravel paths.  

Pre-race - 

Devilbend has a special place in my heart! Three years ago, I ran Devilbend 10km because I had joined Mornington Peninsula Athletics Club (and they run the event). Last year I ran Devilbend 21km, one week before I had hip surgery (I ran a tired 1:43). I was a little disappointed in my time but happy enough to make it to the finish.

This year I entered the 21km distance again. However I wasn’t interested in racing it. I’d recently started a Run Club at work (Fernwood Mornington) and we had fifteen members participating across all distances. Plus I’d been talking to a friend, Chris O’Brien about helping pace a 1:45 group (5min/km pace). My default time for a half marathon was approximately 1:42… I trusted I could manage 1:45 and I’d always wanted to pace a group. I liked the idea of helping other runners achieve their goal! So my focus was on Fernwood and pacing others for a 1:45 half marathon.

Three weeks before Devilbend, I ran You Yangs 30km. I’d also run Traralgon and Gold Coast half marathons so I had no worries with the distance. The only concern was my left leg weakness. Since increasing kilometres, my left hip flared which also set off my left calf/peroneals. I decreased my weekly mileage from 80km to 50km and started clinical pilates again. But I needed time to improve motor control and strength on the left side of my body. Time and patience!

The day before the event, I organised our boys for the Kids Mile. They were both very excited to be running! (Brad agreed to mind the boys after their event so I could run too). I organised myself – I was running in a new pink top (Fernwood crew decided to run in pink), knee length skins, new Asics Nimbus and, my Flipbelt with a couple of gels and small water bottle. Also, I offered to take a carload of goody bags for participants. Samantha from MPAC was in charge of packing all the bags but they wouldn’t all fit in her car.

Race day -

We arrived early to unload the goody bags and prepare our boys for their event. I advised the Fernwood crew to allow time for parking, toilet trips and warm up. There were several other runners I was expecting to see (too many to mention everyone), however I was especially keen to see Jaye (who I coach) – running 21km and Antonella (who I coach and I was running to raise funds for a new wheelchair for her daughter). See details below.

The first person I saw was friend and physio Morgan (Physio+Fitness Seaford). I saw Richard Does (RD), other MPAC members, RMA, Pakenham, Langwarrin and more. And Chris, who convinced me to run with a pacer balloon attached to me. The first event was the Kids Mile. Our boys did a fantastic job and finished in the top ten. They received their medals and I said goodbye as I headed to the start line.

  

Our run started a little quicker than usual for me with 4:34min/km split. After that our splits were fairly even for the rest of the run (between 4:44 and 5:04min/km pace). We only ran a couple of kilometres over five minutes and we made a point of running to feel. The idea was to run a little faster downhill and a little slower uphill (naturally). The course was unmade paths and started with a wide road. Towards the end of the first lap, the trail narrowed and there were slight undulations. It was two laps, which helped create at atmosphere of support and encouragement amongst runners. I loved seeing lead runners come through. Our pace group stayed together well. I’m unsure how many runners we had with us; guessing we started with about 8-10 runners (and finished with about 6 runners).

My body held up okay but I did feel some pain in my left hip and lower leg. My breathing was fine and I managed to talk along the way. It was a satisfying feeling to run as part of a pace group. You can learn a lot about fellow runners when you run together for an hour or two; stories of injuries and, hopes and dreams. I love a good comeback story! I took a gel at the halfway point and sip of water (something I really need to work on… I don’t drink enough on course). Overall, I felt good.

The last few kilometres we knew we were ahead of target. Chris and I decided to walk the last section and aim to cross the finish line closer to 1:45 (we weren’t in any hurry). We encouraged the runners left in our group to run hard to the finish line! It was very rewarding to know that we helped many of them earn a personal best.

Post race -

Afterwards, I caught up with the Fernwood crew. They were happy with their efforts (so proud of them) and we were all keen for some post-race food. I organised to meet them at a local café. I wanted to wait for Jaye to cross the finish line. The boys and I ran out from the finish line to meet Jaye and bring her home. I was super proud of Jaye for getting the job done.

Lessons -

1. Drink water especially when thirsty! (You would think I would know that by now and even worse, this is exactly the same lesson I wrote for Devilbend last year!)

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

See previous Devilbend post…

Of course there’ll be a next time!

I still score this run 9/10.


ANTONELLA AND INDIANA - 

Antonella Marinucci is a friend and running client of mine. 
Nearly 10 years ago, Antonella had twin girls born at 26-weeks. Due to complications, Indiana developed a cyst (cystic leaukamalacia) on her brain that affects her motor skills. Doctors diagnosed her with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Indiana needs surgery however they will not operate until she has the correct wheelchair to undergo recovery (which cost nearly $15,000). Antonella has set up a GoFundMe page and with some help from Oz Child, they hope to run an auction night to assist in fundraising. In the meantime, every run I participate in from now until the end of the year, is for Antonella, Indiana and her family. If you're interested in knowing more, please follow the link. No obligation to donate. I just love that running provides me an opportunity to give to those who need it! Thanks everyone.


https://www.gofundme.com/2fqa564

You Yangs 30km 2016

You Yangs 30km 

http://www.trailsplus.com.au/you-yangs/

The You Yangs Regional park is located about 55km south-west of Melbourne, just west of the township of Little River. The distinctive granite peaks of the You Yangs rise from the flat volcanic plains between Melbourne and Geelong. The park is popular for its magnificent views, birdlife and for bushwalks and picnics.

This race is held in the middle of winter when the park is at its visual best with lush greenery and local birdlife on display. It can be a very different story in the middle of summer when dust and wind can turn the park into a less pleasant and much more harsh environment.

2016 will see the 8th annual Trail Running Festival at the You Yangs. The You Yangs course is always a beautiful run through varying terrain, from flat wooded bike trails to open rocky mountain trails. There are some great views from Flinders Peak across Port Philip Bay, if you have the time and energy to take them in after the steep ascent! Parks Vic provide great picnic facilities at the Turntable carpark, where the race starts and finishes, so it's a perfect location for families and friends to support their athletes. The course takes a series of loops from the carpark out into different areas of the park, always returning to the carpark. This makes the supporter's job much easier as they will see their runner several times during the race.

Pre-race - 

You Yangs is my favourite trail event! This was the third year I had entered the 30km and each year there was something wrong with my lead-up.

In 2014, I had a bad cold and injuries.

In 2015, I had a flu and ongoing injuries that had worsened over time.

In 2016, I had a flare-up of old injuries… Just shoot me!

Despite obstacles, I still entered my favourite race. You Yangs is 2-hour drive from home, it is a small-scale event that offers various distances – 15km, 30km, 50km, 80km and 100-miles. Seeing the 100-milers out there is AMAZING! The terrain is trail (not technical), some single-track and some fire trails. There are hills, steps and a glorious view from the top of Flinders Peak. The 30km event is two different 15km-loops. The first 15km is more challenging with hills and steps. The second loop is man-made Mountain Bike Tracks that zig-zag up an incline. There is something peaceful and soulful about running through the You Yangs. I will continue to run this event for as long as I can.

The few weeks prior to You Yangs were a combination of rest to try to settle my hip pain and racing at Gold Coast. I ran the half marathon at Gold Coast and even though my finish time was better than expected, my body was sore afterwards. My training was less than ideal for a 30km hilly, trail run. However I lowered my expectations to – finish the race and have fun!

Race day -

In the morning, I woke early and dressed in my winter woollies. Melbourne had experienced exceptionally chilly weather in the days prior to the run. The forecast predicted snow at sea level! I organised my long skins, running singlet, two long-sleeve tops, a jacket, beanie, gloves and Injinji socks. I borrowed a Salomon vest from a friend (because I was considering buying one). I packed 3 gels and some lollies. I ran in my usual Asics Nimbus and Garmin. I also took a backpack full of supplies and clean clothes.

The alarm sounded at 5:30am and once I was dressed (and drank my Milo – yes I know very nutritious and delicious) I drove to a friend’s house (Michelle A). I had coordinated to go together with Michelle A, Michelle H and Chrissy. Our 30km event started at 9:30am, which gave us time for the 2-hour trip. Along the way, we commented on how clear the sky looked. It was 0 degrees when we drove through Little River, but I could tell the view from the top of Flinders Peak was going to be sensational. I searched through my bag to discover a muesli bar… I find it too difficult to eat early so I packed supplies.

When we arrived, we parked the car and caught the bus to the start area. You Yangs is a quiet, understated event but the enormity of the 100-milers who are STILL running (at 8:30am) is awe-inspiring! These runners have some serious commitment and strength to run for 24-hours (especially through one of our coldest, winter nights). We collected our bibs, went to the port-a-loo and caught up with some friends. We snapped some pre-race, scenic photos. I explained to the others which way to run when you come through the halfway point. I remembered being confused the first year I ran it. And I grabbed the Salomon vest with my gels and lollies.

Brett from Trailsplus gave the race briefing and we made our way to the start line. After a short countdown, we were off and racing. The first section was fire trails… wide paths and easy to navigate. I went out easy (knowing that I was not 30km-hilly-fit and I would most likely struggle). The first 5-kilometre splits were 5:27, 5:30, 6:13 (hill at 3-kilometre mark), 5:47 and 6:33min (more hills). I remembered from previous years that the hills start early. I usually shuffle past the drink station at 2.5km and run/walk the remainder of the hill. It’s difficult to walk within the first 3-kilometres in a 30km race. It can mess with your head a little. But once I adjusted my expectations, I was fine to keep plodding. Unfortunately the Salomon vest was moving and chaffing. I decided to take off my long sleeve top and tie it high around my waist to secure the pack. It helped a little. When we hit the single-track, downhill section, I pulled over and allowed people to run ahead. Downhill is an opportunity to make up time, but I wasn’t prepared to risk further hip issues. I overtook the same runners on the flats anyway. My average varied in the first hour but I managed to reach the 10-kilometre mark in 55 minutes. I took a gel and water. From 10km onwards, the fun began… and by fun I mean elevation.

Overall the elevation was mild compared to some trail runs but it was enough to take the wind out of my sails. The uneven steps to the top of Flinders Peak seemed endless! I slowed to a walking pace for most of them. My splits were around 8-10min/km. Although the climb to the peak was the hardest section, it was also the most rewarding (because of support from other runners). No matter how breathless we are, we still encourage one another… Doing great! Well done! Not long to the top now… Keep it up! The camaraderie between runners is about respect, understanding, strength and passion for life. And I am very grateful to be part of the running community.

Once I reached the top of the steps, I dragged my legs to the lookout and absorbed the view! A moment of pause… then I was running again. This time, down the steps. It was my turn to reassure the runners who were struggling on the way to the top. I saw Rhianna from RIOT and some other familiar faces.

When I reached the 15km-mark, I glanced at my Garmin and noticed my time was comparable to previous years. The last two years I had set of goal of 3 hours (missed by 2-3 minutes). This time I expected to be closer to 3 hours 10 min.

The second 15km-loop was flatter and easier. But the unrelenting twists and turns were mentally challenging. I went by a drink station and stopped for water (even though I still had plenty in the bottles in my vest). Any excuse for a breather! Around 20-22km, I began to fade… my level of fitness and endurance had maxed out. I think I heard my left leg whisper… I’m done! You’re on your own! Around 24-26km, my right leg whispered… I’m done too! What were you thinking running 30km of hills? My brain and my two-gimpy-legs laughed together but continued to move forwards! I had a second gel at some point and a few lollies. My splits from 22km were 5:33, 5:45, 6:13, 7:51, 7:21, 8:21 (some elevation), 6:46, 5:16… I would shuffle-stop-stretch and REPEAT! My hip flexors, quads and ITB were screaming at me. I knew I could make it to the finish but I was TIRED! The last few kilometres were great because I crossed paths with the 15km runners. Again, some friendly faces and words of encouragement gave me a boost. A few more hills and I could finally see the finish line. I came in at 3 hours 5 minutes (only a few minutes slower than previous years). Apparently I placed 6^th female but the field was small. There were 100 runners in the 30km event.

Post race -

After I finished, I drank some water and ate more lollies. I ditched the hydration vest ASAP (I had significant chaffing on my ribs) and I changed into warm, clean clothes. I was neither happy nor disappointed with my time. The time was reflective of the lack of training. One day I’m actually going to be fighting-fit for You Yangs. I’m going to train on hills and run the necessary distance before the big day. And I’m going to crack 3-hours!

I was happy I turned up, cross the start line and the finish line. I was grateful for the course, weather, friends and community! It was nice to be able to see friends cross the finish line too and celebrate together afterwards. 

The days following the race, I was SORE! My quads and glutes were painful. But again, it was reflective of the lack of training. It took about four days to recover.

Lessons -

1. If you plan on racing 30km-hilly… Train for it!

2. Nothing new on race day! The Solomon vest was a bad idea… And chaffing hurts!

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

See previous You Yangs posts…

Of course there will be a next time!

Still ranked 9.5/10.

Gold Coast Half Marathon 2016

GC Half Marathon

http://goldcoastmarathon.com.au/races/half-marathon/

The ASICS Half Marathon is one of Australia’s premier running events, providing both an avenue for those making the step up in distance and a stage for frequent half marathoners to strut their stuff on an a world-standard course.

Starting at the Race Precinct in Southport, the course traces the picturesque Broadwater, providing views of Wavebreak, Ephraim and South Stradbroke Islands. Enjoy the sights as you run to Paradise Point along the flat and fast terrain.

Give yourself a small reward as you run through 10.55km and around the northern turn. Enjoy the thrill of heading for home as you once again take in the water views and the buzz of being half way there. Cross the Loders Creek Bridge and you’ll know it’s only one kilometre until the end. Soak up the atmosphere created by your fellow runners and the crowd support as you reach the finish chute and ultimately your goal of the finish line.

Pre-race - 

As usual there is a story behind this run. Even though Gold Coast is the place to run for PBs, I was never interested in it. I like smaller, quieter events. And if I chose to race in Queensland, it would be Sunshine Coast.

Anyway, my running was progressing well since recovering from hip surgery last August. I ran Canberra half marathon, Wings for Life and Great Ocean Road. And most importantly, I had NO pain! I even stepped up my long runs and managed a couple of 30km training runs with Lysterfield Trail Runners. Then someone sent me a link to the JETSTAR sale! Cheap flights to the Gold Coast with the marathon only five weeks away! I was struggling with life in general, and I needed a break. And my running was going great. Like many others, I wrestle with the prospect of training for a marathon (running it on the day is okay though). And then I had a crazy thought… forget training and pressure to run a PB (I could last the distance) so just enter it and have some fun! I didn’t care how long it took. I just wanted to go away for the weekend, run a marathon and have fun with some friends.

I had planned on running a marathon (a few days before) with a friend to support her Bravehearts event of 7 marathons in 7 days in 7 cities; http://www.bravehearts.org.au. I wanted to run in Melbourne with Dani but the fundraising was steep. For the same money, I could fly to Queensland, run and support Dani for the last marathon of 777. And support others too.

Decision made… I entered Gold Coast marathon.

A few days later I went out on a long training run (road) before tapering. I planned on 32km but I got lost and clocked up 35km. I was sore and tired, which was expected. But my left (operated) hip didn’t settle. I ran the following weekend (helped pace someone at Traralgon half marathon) and I could feel something not right in my hip from about the 4km mark. The pain continued for the next few weeks; worse at night and sitting. I saw my physiotherapist (Morgan from Physio+Fitness Seaford) and Brad continued to adjust me. I had a MRI, which showed the original repair was intact. Apparently there was a new small tear but nothing to explain the pain. There was also glute tendonosis, which is typical for someone with a long-standing hip injury. It showed I needed to work on strength but didn’t explain the pain.

The physio said I could run the half marathon.

I sold my full ticket and scored a cheap half entry a few days before the race! I had to run as someone else but that didn’t bother me. I had decreased my training significantly in the weeks prior and even a half marathon was going to be tough. I was predicting somewhere around 1:45-1:47 (I secretly wanted less than Canberra, which was 1:42:30) but my main goal was NO pain!

The night before race day I arrived on the Gold Coast and took the shuttle bus to Main Beach Caravan Park. I organised to stay with friends, Jenny and Jody (RMA). I was really looking forward to a girls weekend with like-minded people. Nicole (RMA founder) and a few others were staying in the same complex too.

I knew a few more people running at Gold Coast; friends Chantel and Alyssa, RMA, Rioters and Pakenham Road Runners.

My whole perspective had changed since downgrading to the half marathon. Now it was about supporting Jenny and Jody (who were kindly pacing RMAs for the full marathon), Chantel (running her first marathon for the Lung Foundation in honour of her dad), and Dani (running for Bravehearts). I love watching, supporting and volunteering for running events. Even if it does make me cry sometimes… happy tears.

Race day -

The morning of the race, I woke at 4am! The half marathon started at 6am and the full started at 7am (Jenny and Jody had an extra hour sleep). I snuck out of bed to get dressed; knee-length Skins, RMA singlet, long-sleeve top, Flipbelt with gels, iPod, Garmin, Injinjis and Asics Nimbus.

I arranged to walk to the race precinct with Nicole, who was running the half marathon too. It was dark and cold. Luckily, another Kate (RMA) kindly drove us part of the way. We crossed the bridge and found the RMA tent. The atmosphere was brewing, and volunteers and officials were buzzing around making final touches. Time disappeared and after a quick dash to the toilets, I made my way to the start line.

The start area was chaotic and there were people everywhere. I found the correct allocated section and my Garmin found satellites about thirty seconds before the starting gun sounded. Phew!

Once the crowd started moving, I thought I would be able to cut through and find some rhythm. But it was too busy and although I was in the right section, I was surrounded by people running slower than me. There were a handful of us trying to get ahead, so I followed other runners onto the alternate side of the median strip and, cut in and out where needed. I didn’t have a plan but I hoped to sit around 4:50min/km pace (1:42). However, my first kilometre split was closer to 5:10. I had to make up time. Why? Because I had white line fever!

The next couple of kilometres were 4:32 and 4:33. I continued running up along and over the median strip until the 3-kilometre mark. I finally cut back in, at a spot where people were running at a similar speed. The sun was up and I could take in the scenery (yes I was running on the Gold Coast, but there wasn’t much to see). The road was flat. There were shops and spectators on both sides, and runners all around. The weather was perfect. It was sunny and cool but there was no wind (I still had my long sleeve top on though).

For the next twenty minutes, I allowed my pace to drop a fraction but set a goal to keep the pressure on until the 10-kilometre mark. My legs (including hips) were feeling good. I trusted my body to go the distance (even though I expected things to hurt from about 15-kilometres on). I concentrated on leaning forwards from the ankles and activating glutes… 4:43, 4:38, 4:48, 4:47… then I spotted the 10km sign.

I waited until the turn around point before I took my long sleeve top off and put my headphones in. I took a gel and walked through a drink station for a mouthful of water to wash it down. I was grateful for the short respite.

From the turn around point onwards, I decreased my pace even more. I ran 4:52, 4:52, 4:54, 4:44, 4:49, 5:00, 4:49, 5:00 and devised another plan, to pick up the pace for the last few kilometres (inspired by Michelle Harris at Traralgon)!

I had to allow 30-40 minutes easier running because I was concerned about reaching the finish line. My heart and lungs were comfortable, but my legs were fading (especially my left leg). Around 15-kilometres, my glutes and hips began to fatigue and I had no power. My left calf muscle worked double time, and it hurt! I was in a good place mentally and ready to dig deep for the last part of the course.

My last few kilometres were 4:38, 4:47, 4:48 and 4:42. The crowd carried me along for the last section, especially seeing Zoe (RMA). Zoe is the bomb when it comes to crowd support! And I knew once I reached the RMA tent, I didn’t have far to go. I ran over a timing mat and stopped my Garmin (and I soon realised it was the 21km timing mat). I still had 100-metres to go! I started it again but I messed up my results. My official time was 1:42:10 (20 seconds faster than Canberra haha!) I grabbed some water, my medal and t-shirt and walked the long way back to the RMA tent. It was a great spot to wait and watch other runners finish.

Post race -

After cooling down and finding a place to change, I found a home in front of the RMA tent. Best spot to camp out, and there were bonus lollies and fruit available (thanks Nicole)!

I stayed there for the next few hours! I watched fellow half marathon runners come in, including Erin and Danielle (two beautiful pregnant mummas). And encouraged ALL marathon runners home… The elite runners, familiar faces, my friends, and back of the pack runners… I watched in admiration and envy. And I nearly lost my voice from cheering so much! As usual, RMA offered each other endless support and encouragement. There were tears from Zoe when she saw friends approaching, excitement from me when I saw Chantel, encouragement for Jenny and Jody, and huge respect for Dani for completing Bravehearts 777. 

I missed a few faces in the crowd (like Chris Confait, Jody Soutter and Judy Street but you were all on my mind). Most people I knew, ran well and crossed that finish line to receive their medal. Well done! FORTY-TWO kilometres! You are ALL amazing!

Race feedback and will there be a next time -

The event was very busy and congested. Apparently many runners go to Gold Coast for PBs but the traffic in the first few kilometres was challenging. It was an out-and-back course with very little undulations. The weather was brilliant however the mid-back pack marathoners began to feel warm. The crowd vibe was great! Overall, I really enjoyed my experience. My time was better than I hoped, and I loved supporting others. The perfect weekend for me!

I scored this run 8/10.

Post-post-race:

Afterwards my hips were sore but tolerable and my calf muscles were cactus. But I can handle musculo-skeletal tightness and pain. At this stage, my hips are surviving. I am unsure what the next few months will bring, I have to decide whether to increase distance and attempt to qualify for Two Bays 56km or take the pressure off and downgrade to 28km. Time will tell.