I know, I know.

I am, once again, bringing you a blog MONTHS after the event.

I guess I just need a “permeation period” to believe it all actually happened.

So, without further ado, here is my 2023 Tokyo Marathon experience!

Why Tokyo?:

As you may know if you have read my Boston blog, I LOVE American history, but I’m also fascinated by other cultures and their traditions.

Asian culture is a prime example of that!

Besides that allure, Tokyo plays host to one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors…

…and the last Marathon Major I needed to complete my six star journey!

Interesting fact: This year was the first year the Tokyo Marathon had been open to an international, mass field since the pandemic and had a record number of six star finishers.

Entry:

Here are the ways you can get into the Tokyo Marathon

• Elite (i.e. super fast people)
• Celebrity (although, I really didn’t hear of any here)
• Qualify based on time
• Competitions (rare)
• Invitational entries/sponsor organizations (again, rare)
• Travel agencies with marathon/tour packages (international only)
• Charity (hard to grab these spots, to my understanding)
• Ballot (lottery drawing)

My entry into the Tokyo Marathon may be my wildest entry story yet.

I got in through a lottery of sorts…, but not the ballot.

You see, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation put on a virtual half marathon series where, if you registered and logged your run in an app during a specific time period, you’d be entered to win 1 of 50 spots in the Tokyo Marathon.

These virtual half marathons were very inexpensive, so I thought I’d take a chance…not really expecting anything to happen.

Especially since I had already missed a few before I heard about it.

I entered one using my Boston Marathon run to complete it.

I didn’t get drawn that time.

I entered again, ran the distance over a couple of training runs, and signed up for a third one as the winners of the second run wouldn’t be announced until the registration period was over for the next one.

Again, I obviously wasn’t expecting to be drawn and anticipated having to run each offering.

Even then, I knew it’d be a long shot.

But, surprise, surprise, I was drawn on my second try!

To say I was in shock would be an understatement.

Here we go to TOKYO!

Hotel:

I stayed at the Super Hotel Premier Akihabara, Tokyo.

The hotels, even though I kind of waited too long to book, were pretty affordable in the area that I was looking.

You see, I wanted to be close enough for a relatively simple commute to the start, an even easier commute from the finish, and a manageable distance from the airport (I flew in and out of Haneda) and Tokyo Disney.

Akihabara provided all of those things.

Another thing that kept my costs down was having a roommate.

Enter the wonderful and fabulous, Juanita!

Besides keeping my costs down, Juanita was instrumental in keeping my nerves in check and the “party” going.

I will never forget her “superior support” (which even went as far as her shopping for me and providing me with food and drink, so I could save steps) and the once-in-a-lifetime moments shared.

I will treasure them, and her, forever.

Thank you, Juanita!

Fun fact: It was Juanita’s birthday on the day we flew to Tokyo! We may or may not have had cupcakes to celebrate.

While we enjoyed our stay, I think we would both want to warn you that the rooms were Japanese-style and VERY small.

While that helped keep the cost down, as well, it wasn’t really convenient for luggage…or for two people walking around at the same time.

We made it work, though (good thing we are both “travel-size”), and it did have a bathtub and a fancy toilet.

I definitely miss that last one.

Is that weird?

(Tip: order a Sumida card beforehand. It will come pre-loaded, but you will use the train system A LOT, so budget for cash to refill it. I would recommend pre-ordering your yen/cash money, too.)

Pre-Race:

While I wanted to save my legs, and was busy trying to channel my nerves (can I even do this?!), I still had a laundry list of things that I wanted to do.

I didn’t get around to all of them either which means, o drat, I’ve got to go back .

(Tip:  Pre-book experiences/tickets ASAP!)

Here is what I DID get to do.

(Note: Check out my #storytimeseries on Instagram for more in-depth details about some of these and the meaning behind them!)

• Kitchen District (Kappabashi)
• Monkey Kart
• Sensoji Temple
• Asakusa Area
• Don Quijote
• Nintendo Store
• Shiburu Crossing and Hachiko Statue
• and a big one I’ll leave for the end…

(Tip:  Use Google Translate. It’ll be your friend!).

Once again, I waited too long to enter the 5k and I just plain ran out of time and energy to do a run around the Imperial Palace as I had planned.

SPOILER: It all worked out in the end.

Expo:

I must say this was probably my most stressful Expo experience to date.

This was due, in part, to locating the Expo (did not save steps on that one), the long lines EVERYWHERE, and the multiple layers of Covid/race protocol, but, mostly, to the apparel area.

It was an absolute madhouse.

I was getting hit and felt “suffocated” and “swallowed” by the crowd.

It was stressful but, thanks to a stocker pulling back a curtain right before I checked out and exchanging some stuff for me so I wouldn’t have to go back into the fray, I made it out alive.

Side note: The shirt I’m wearing below is from my friend, Mike Alcaide, who became a DOUBLE six star finisher after this race and who I saw on the course. Thanks and Congrats, Mike! He also offers training plans. Check him out on Instagram at @mike_the_korican and @globalrunningcrew.

I saved most of my “adventurous eating” for after the race, so my “normal” pre-race dinner was just what I needed.

I was SO worried that I wouldn’t be able to find Italian food, in any form, while in Tokyo.

Luckily, there was a wonderful place right down the street from the hotel and we got right in.

It could not have been more perfect!

The restaurant we went to was called Chianti-Due and was simply delicious.

(Tip:  Try to eat early, so that you can go to bed early. Even if you don’t sleep, your body will appreciate the “rest”).

Here are some of the other offerings I enjoyed during my time in Tokyo.

The Race:

Side note: Since I was SO nervous about the checkpoints, I added them to my “outfit” by writing them on the inside of my arm. This way, I wouldn’t be caught unaware.

Getting There:

After a bread (couldn’t find a bagel) and peanut butter breakfast, a temperature check, several deodorant checks, and a bathroom stop, we were off.

Getting to the start went without incident (other than narrowly missing the first train) thanks to Juanita mapping out our train stops beforehand.

Before I knew it, I was saying, “Goodbye” to Juanita and “Hello” to the corral area.

I made it through one last temperature and security check smoothly and walked straight up to the front of my corral.

Not much to report here other than I met a new friend named Ben, it was cold (good thing Abbott advocated for us and throwaways were allowed after all), and other people coming in late had me stressed for them.

I certainly didn’t need any more stress.

I was by other six star hopefuls and people that had failed time cutoffs before.

That didn’t help the nervous system, either.

I thought about going to the bathroom one more time as I wasn’t planning on making any pit stops during the race due to the checkpoint fear, but I didn’t want to lose my prime spot.

Start:

After the normal “shuffling” at the start for better position and one last “Good Luck” to Ben, we were off…

…to lots of happy waving from the volunteers.

Side note: I was concerned I would be cold, even in my throwaways, but the weather cooperated beautifully. Also, I picked up some of the heart confetti shot off at the start from the ground with the plans to make an ornament or save it for my scrapbook, but, sadly, my sweat destroyed it. I should’ve taken a little time to put it in a baggy. There’s a sort of tip for you!

Miles 1-26:

Here we go.

Watch your watch…

…and where you are running.

Man, it is CROWDED!

Those were my primary thoughts for many miles of this race.

The course never seemed to “open up”.

I was so scared of tripping, but that was one way to distract myself, I suppose.

As was “chunking” the race up by checkpoint.

I will say, this race had a lot of turns.

As such, it looked like we were running the same two streets over and over.

You, also, had two “unpalatable” views this way.

One view was disheartening as you saw people miles ahead of you making you wish you were where they were and the other was seeing the sweepers behind you filling you with equal measures of determination and dread.

Side note: I have “dressed up” for each of my Majors, but I loved seeing the costumes and unique signs that BOTH my fellow runners and the spectators donned. I, also, loved hearing the excitement when someone “recognized” me.

HOWEVER, I knew once the number of shrines started increasing, the miles were decreasing and the fear of failing loosened its grip with each step.

What also helped was seeing several other (six star) runners doing everything they could to reach the finish line.

Even if they had to crawl or be carried.

Runners are an inspiring set of people, ya know?

Even, or sometimes especially, to each other.

This was the extra “jolt” I needed, but also acted as a reminder to take in and appreciate what was happening and what I was doing.

I started to see more “countdown” signs and the crowds began to thicken.

The normal thoughts of, “This can’t be real” and “O. MY. GOSH” had made the trip with me and surfaced here, but there was an added one this time…

“This is it“.

Finish:

“It” was not only the finish line of the Tokyo Marathon, but the finish line of my six star journey.

All the entries, training, miles, fundraising, stories, sweat, joy, worry, and friendships had led to this.

I AM A SIX STAR FINISHER.

After I crossed the line, it was back on with the mask and back into a line.

I got my Tokyo Marathon medal and a recovery bag in a way that was efficient, but felt very much like a runner’s “trick-or-treat” (ex. open bag, get item dropped in, thank person, and go).

The real “treat”, however, was at the next “stop”.

One I had been dreaming about for years…and it didn’t disappoint.

After gathering my race poncho, which also didn’t disappoint, Jiji and I headed over to the six star tent.

There, they verified my “six star status” by scanning a code on my bib.

Then, it happened.

I received my six star finisher medal!

(Insert internal squeal here)

After getting a few pictures, some video, and a surprise lapel pin, I was leaving the finisher’s area.

Yes, just like that, it was all over.

Meet-up:

I ran (ok, hobbled) from the finisher’s area right into Juanita.

It still impresses me how easy it was to spot and meet-up with her.

The Japanese are very organized, you see, but post-marathon Meredith is usually not.

We got right on the train and were back at our hotel in no time.

Post-Race:

I immediately went to take a bath in a Japanese-style tub (hey, it worked) and, then, Juanita and I both put our legs up.

She had a McDonald’s, some Coke Zero, and ibuprofen waiting on me, too.

Then, we went to a diner sort of place and had some pizza.

Then, it was back to the hotel and to my bed.

While I didn’t get the deep sleep I expected, the emotional relief was real.

And, as Porky the Pig would say, “That’s All Folks!”

At least for my celebration for that day.

Because the “real” celebration would begin the following day.

Juanita even asked me about it.

“Meredith, you just became a six star finisher. What are you going to do next?”

That’s right…you know my answer…

“I’M GOING TO (TOKYO) DISNEYLAND!”

This could be a blog all on it’s own probably but, long story short, we went, we saw, we rode, we shopped, we ate Mickey-shaped things.

While my energy didn’t hold up long enough to catch the fireworks (this time. Wink, wink), the stairs and lines definitely helped me get out some of that built up lactic acid.

It was magical.

(Note: There were “race papers” available the morning after the race at 7-Eleven. They didn’t list finisher names, but looked pretty cool in Japanese.)

Juanita and I were up and at ’em the morning after our couple days of celebrating to get a car to the airport (we opted to take a car to and from the airport to not have to stress about bags or trains or bags on trains. Good thinking on our parts, I think).

I, also, think this was the first trip of my Majors where I was really ready to be home.

I enjoyed Tokyo, don’t get me wrong, but I was ready to share my celebration with “the home front”.

Side note: Masks were required/expected for most of this trip.

This was a BIG race by itself, but a culmination of an even BIGGER journey.

Thank you all for joining me for (all of) it.

Please leave me a comment below if you have any questions.

YouTube Tokyo Marathon Video:

Star #6…left me with more than medals and pics!

Next up: TBD

Long time, no blog.

In fact, the last time I blogged was for my 2022 Boston Marathon experience.

Well, what comes after “b”?

That’s right, “c”, and “c” stands for Chicago.

Here is my 2022 Bank of America Chicago Marathon experience!

Why Chicago?:

Chicago plays host to one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors but, more than that, it has held significant weight for me personally.

In fact, Chicago was in the running (you don’t mind the pun, do you?) to be my first marathon.

While London ultimately won out, I still love the city and couldn’t wait to establish a new foothold (sorry, I can’t help myself) there.

Interesting fact: This year, the female American marathon record was broken by Emily Sisson with a time of 2:18:29!

Entry:

Here are the ways you can get into the Chicago Marathon

• Elite (i.e. super fast people)
• Celebrity
• Qualify based on time
• Competitions (rare)
• Invitational entries/sponsor organizations (again, rare)
• Travel agencies with marathon/tour packages (international only)
• Ballot (lottery drawing of sorts. Chicago has better odds than most)
• Charity (seems to offer plenty of spots and perks versus the other majors)
• Para athletics division & adaptive programs (separate rules apply)

Now, coming off of a charity entry and HUGE fundraising effort for Boston, I knew it was ballot or bust for me for Chicago.

I had applied a couple of times before without success, but gave it another go after seeing, and buying, some Garrett’s popcorn in the Dallas airport on the way to see my family for Thanksgiving.

The third time, or the popcorn, really was the charm as I was selected for the 2022 race.

Side note: I passed the same popcorn shop on the way to and from the race. Talk about a full circle moment. I, also, might’ve got a bag or two to keep the luck flowing!

Hotel:

I stayed at the Ohio House Motel.

Again, hotels were SO expensive

(Tip: budget for taxis/Ubers or the L, if you won’t have a car. Budget for parking, if you will.)

I chose my hotel (or motel, in this case) VERY late in the game. To say I was stressed about that was an understatement. I was, also, originally going to Chicago via car. Plans changed, but, as things tend to do, worked out anyway.

The management at the Ohio House Motel were very nice and they were able to accommodate my main room request…a bathtub. It was even “dressed” for Halloween!

Added perks?

The hotel was right around the corner from Portillo’s , a Target, and a McDonald’s and was actually on the race route.

There was another moment of panic, though, the night before the race when I was reminded about road closures and was unsure if I’d even make it to the start line. Thanks to my support crew and an early morning Uber reservation, all ended up well!

Pre-Race:

While I wanted to save my legs, and was busy trying to channel my nerves (was this really happening?!), I still had a laundry list of things that I wanted to do. Since I’d been to Chicago before, I didn’t have a whole lot on my list.

GASP!

Yet, I still didn’t get around to everything which means, o drat, I’ve got to go back here, too!

Here is what I DID get to do.

(Note: Check out my #storytimeseries on Instagram for more in-depth details about some of these and the meaning behind them!)

• Closing night of “Fiddler on the Roof”
• The Chicago 5k (unprecedented move)
• Boat Tour
• Pizza Crawl
• Dim Sum Brunch
• “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” Movie Stops
• Mural Hunt
• Sky Deck

Expo:

After, checking in, I went straight to the Expo at McCormick Place.

I got my bib, my merch (surprisingly, no Nike or jacket, though), tons of photos, and an ulcer (haha)!

Getting an Uber out was responsible for that last one and was, honestly, the worst part of my trip.

I still shudder at the thought of that, so moving on!

Side note: I think I was waiting for my Uber for up to an hour or an hour and a half. Maybe next time I should just catch the train!

Side note: There is NOT a name wall of all the participants in Chicago. Save your steps looking for it.

I may have eaten all the pizza, see shirt above, but I did not have it for my pre-race dinner at a restaurant called Vinci.

I, once again, ate with friends which was a nice distraction.

Nerves are better shared over pasta.

Although, my transportation troubles didn’t really pair well with veal check.

(Tip: Make a reservation FAR in advance and make it for early evening so that you can rest…or try. Thanks for scoring those, Jess!).

The Race:

Side note: I’ve known for a LONG time what my costume would be for this race. I have grown to love hockey through watching the Chicago Blackhawks, so I just HAD to go as a Blackhawks player!

Getting There:

The aforementioned Uber was there early so, after a bagel and peanut butter breakfast, we made our way to the start line.

Volunteers were just opening up the corrals as we were walking up, so we made it in plenty of time.

I said my good-byes (for now) to my mom and Catherine and headed for the hospitality tent (after a couple of wrong turns and getting directions).

Once there, I tried to settle in a spot by the stage and relax.

I, normally, wouldn’t get the tent but, for some reason, signed up for it for this race.

I, also, tried to give it to my mom beforehand, though.

I am glad I used it, after all, as I was there as something amazing happened.

After many races, and years of trying, I MET DEENA KASTOR!

If these aren’t signs, I don’t know what is.

Start:

I was strangely calm as I chatted with two girls at the very front of the line…and read through some last-minute messages.

Unlike Boston, there was plenty of time to linger, but not plenty of time, or chances, to pee…unless I wanted to lose my comfy cushion at the front…which I did not as I was in the very last corral.

But, hey, I got to hold the rope!

Miles 1-26:

I had Boston VERY marked out in my mind.

Chicago was the exact opposite.

Pre-race that scared me silly, but I actually think it worked out in my favor this time as everything seemed “brand new”.

This meant that the course certainly held my attention.

I did have some “mental markers” for where my support crews were, but mostly “just ran”.

Running in that state made every “milestone” surprising.

I’m halfway?

How did I get here?

Is this race flying or am I?

Where’s that wall?

Side note: The Chicago crowds didn’t have quite the specific cheers that Boston had, but each section or neighborhood definitely had it’s own “flavor”. What they may have lacked in loudness they made up for in their “offerings”. There were tissues and beer and Twizzlers and snacks galore, O my!

Finish:

Whoa, how’d that get there?

The finish line.

Am I done already?

Are they playing “Band on the Run”?

YUP!

And…

DONE!

Bonus: I got a finish line shout-out and it was caught on video!

Meet-up:

After I crossed the line, a lovely volunteer presented me with my new bling, I took a few more pictures, I got a heat sheet (although I didn’t really need it this time, I collected my finisher’s goodies, and I went to meet my crew (via my mom’s over-the-phone-through-a-volunteer directions).

I actually felt really good, but decided to skip the party and, a la’ Berlin, got a bicycle cab.

not the same price though. other parts of this race reminded me of my other majors too.

And, if you can believe it, I had a HUGE new PR (we are talking by minutes…even with my first “major” bathroom break!)

Post-Race:

After a bath, complete with recovery bath bomb, and a tiny rest, my mom, Catherine, and I headed out for a celebration dinner at Pizano’s.

While nerves are better shared over pasta, cheers are better shared with (root) beers!

Once again, I stayed for a full day after the marathon to get some more sight-seeing and celebration in.

And what a celebration it was.

(Note: There were “race papers”, the Chicago Tribune and the Chicago Sun Times, available the morning after at 7-Eleven. They didn’t list finisher names, though.)

After presenting my mom and Catherine with their awards, most of the day was spent reflecting on my experience and, of course, eating all the pizza!

Then, just like that, it was over and I was flying again.

Except, this time, it was home and towards another start line.

I have FINALLY given my fifth star it’s much-deserved five-star review.

Thank you all for joining me for it.

Please leave me a comment below if you have any questions.

YouTube Chicago Marathon Video:

Star #5…keepin’ the dream alive!

Next up: The 2023 Tokyo Marathon

It took me a long time to write my Berlin Marathon recap, but I could not wait to write this one!

It feels downright surreal to be writing the following phrase.

Here is my 2022 Boston Marathon experience!

Why Boston?:

I LOVE American history, particularly the Revolutionary period, but my interest in visiting Boston and in running the Boston Marathon goes beyond that.

It even goes beyond the fact that Boston plays host to one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors.

Boston is the running mecca, the People’s Olympics, and holds its own place in American history.

And I, an ordinary runner, got to be a part of it.

EEK!

Interesting fact: The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world. This year, also, was the first year that it was held on it’s normal date, Patriots’ Day, since the pandemic.

Entry:

Here are the ways you can get into the Boston Marathon

• Elite (i.e. super fast people)
• Celebrity
• Qualify based on time
• Competitions (rare)
• Invitational entries/sponsor organizations (again, rare)
• Travel agencies with marathon/tour packages (international only)
• Charity (largest fundraising minimums that I’ve seen for a race)
• Para athletics division & adaptive programs (separate rules apply)

(Note: Boston does NOT offer a ballot option.)

As some of you reading this may know, I am not the fastest runner.

And I am certainly not “Boston fast”.

Originally I had dreamed of being able to qualify, but I decided to be more realistic with myself.

I am not the most patient person either.

Therefore, I went with the only other option available to me…a charity entry.

For those thinking this might be a “cop out” or the easy way, let me show you why it is not.

1. You have to apply, and sometimes interview, to run in these highly coveted charity spots. You do not automatically get accepted.
2. Each charity sets their minimum, but the prestige of this race comes with a lofty “price tag”. My charity’s minimum fundraising requirement, for example, was $9,000.
3. You are responsible for the full minimum amount whether the race is held, you run, you finish, or not. This requires a lot of time, dedication, energy, and creativity that runs right alongside everyday life and marathon training.
4. You are still required to run the race within the time limits…which is stricter than other Majors I’ve done up to this point (6 hours).

The charity I chose, and that chose me, was 261 Fearless.

Why 261?:

261 Fearless is an organization co-founded by Kathrine Switzer.

Kathrine was the first woman to run the Boston Marathon with a bib.

Talk about history!

She registered with her initials and the organizers assumed she was male. Come race day, they found out otherwise and tried to literally pull her from the course.

Her then-boyfriend tackled the race organizer and she went on to finish the race.

That day started something that would change everything for female marathoners runners.

This year’s race marks the 50th anniversary of women being officially allowed to run the Boston Marathon (5 of the 8 women who ran in 1972 are pictured below).

261 Fearless is an organization that is creating a global, social running network for women of all abilities and backgrounds to support and communicate with each other, encouraging healthy living and a positive sense of self-esteem and fearlessness. 

With my background with running and experiences of being put down for my pace, the phrase “for women of all abilities and backgrounds” really meant a lot to me.

I first heard about 261 Fearless from Kathrine’s book “Marathon Woman” (definitely a must-read).

Her story, and the organization’s message, really inspired me so I knew, if I was ever going to run Boston, I was going to run for 261.

Plus, running the 126th for 261 just sounds right, am I right?

Side note: Getting a chance to hang out with all of these amazing women in person at the team meeting was amazing. We were definitely spoiled (see above)…as were my initial plans to meet Kathrine. She wasn’t able to make the meeting and I wasn’t able to make her Expo talk after. DRAT!

Hotel:

I stayed at the Omni Parker House.

Well, for part of my stay.

You see, hotels were SO expensive (the sticker shock was real, ya’ll) that I decided I needed another plan.

I couldn’t find a roommate this time, but one of my husband’s best friends lived (semi) nearby.

He and his girlfriend agreed to not only take me in, but to take me around.

Let me tell you, the amount I owe to both of them for that and for dealing with me in my “marathon weekend state” is more than my fundraising minimum.

(Tip: budget for taxis/Ubers or the T, if you won’t have a car. Budget for parking, if you will.)

I chose the Omni for my hotel stay (starting Sunday), not only for it’s culinary history (it is the birthplace of Parker House rolls and the Boston cream pie), but because it was by the finish line, was in proximity to a lot of the other (race) activities, offered private bathrooms (something I didn’t know wasn’t a given in downtown Boston), and was able to accommodate my main room request…a bathtub.

Pre-Race:

While I wanted to save my legs, and was busy trying to channel my nerves (was this really happening?!), I still had a laundry list of things that I wanted to do.

I didn’t get around to all of them either which means, o drat, I’ve got to go back (maybe as a volunteer? Wink, wink).

Here is what I DID get to do.

(Note: Check out my #storytimeseries on Instagram for more in-depth details about some of these and the meaning behind them!)

• The Boston Tea Party Museum
• “Hocus Pocus” location tour/Salem
• Axe-throwing at The Rugged Axe
• The Blessing of the Athletes at Old South Church
• Fan Fest
• Easter lunch at Omni Parker House’s table 40

Again, with all the other activities I had planned, I opted not to do the B.A.A. 5K as a shakeout run.

I kind of kicked myself for that one as it would’ve been an opportunity to meet Kathrine (I had, and missed, all of my other opportunities, too).

Alas, another reason to go back to Boston!

Expo:

Josh (my husband’s friend that I mentioned earlier) and I went to the Expo straight from the airport.

We lucked out here as we went into the Hynes Convention Center from our parking garage and had no wait whatsoever.

It had not sunken in yet (still hasn’t) what I was doing and was all still pretty dreamlike at that point.

Of course, I had gotten up super early and was operating on very little sleep.

I got my bib, my merch, tons of photos (Josh also played the role of photographer A LOT this trip. Thanks!), AND (drumroll) WAGAMAMA!

Side note: I always seem to just miss my chance to go to Wagamama when in Heathrow and was so excited there was one connected to the convention center.

Speaking of food, my pre-race dinner was AMAZING!!

Side note: I got the opportunity to ride the T but, again, missed Kathrine at the 261 Fearless team dinner.

The restaurant we went to was called Antico Forno and was the perfect “carb-load and chill” meal with friends.

(Tip: Make a reservation FAR in advance and make it for early evening so that you can rest…or try. Thanks for scoring those, Jen!).

The Race:

Side note: Since I was SO nervous about the time limit, I was planning on NOT wearing a “costume” for this race. After I saw the disappointment on a friend’s face when I told her this, though, I changed my mind. I went with something simple and that coordinated with my charity’s white shirt, but jazzed it up a bit…and I’m glad I did. It turned out to be a hit. I was a unicorn, the symbol of the B.A.A., and a “fearless” one at that!

Getting There:

After a bagel and peanut butter breakfast, I headed to meet Jackey and Jen at Jen’s hotel.

This was super nice other than having to walk “against traffic” to get there.

Worth it…and not just for the SUPER nice bathrooms.

Once we all met up, we walked to the starting area together.

Not much to report here other than I happened to catch my charity team’s group photo and that the bus lines were PURE PANDEMONIUM!

It was, to put it lightly, a mess.

There were times we were pushed up against each other so tightly I felt we were in a mosh pit.

Eventually, we did get a bus (one of the last ones) and were off.

Now, Hopkinton was about a 45 minute to an hour-bus ride away.

I found out that this was plenty of time to doubt myself.

Jen was calm and trying to point things out to me (sorry that I was such a bad tour attendee, Jen) and I was sitting there trying to remember if I knew how to run.

Start:

We made it to the Athletes’ Village just in time for one final bathroom stop (in which, TMI alert, I had a false alarm of the same “female problem” from Berlin. No lines, though), to ditch our throwaways, grab some pics, put on some more sunscreen, and to start our .7-mile walk to the start line.

I didn’t even have time to check out the indoor space reserved for the charities.

No matter, no matter.

Side note: I was concerned I would be cold, even in my throwaways, but the weather cooperated beautifully. Also, my throwaways came from and smelled like my parents (laundered, of course). I found that extremely comforting.

Then, they started “corralling” us to our zones.

I’m glad, again, that we didn’t have to linger.

Miles 1-26:

This can’t be real.

O. MY. GOSH.

Those were my two primary thoughts for the first few miles of this race.

I kept having to pinch myself…ok, just remind myself…that I was running THE Boston Marathon.

In all my disbelief, and maybe because I never wear one, I forgot to start my watch.

I tried not to stress about it, but I also wanted to be aware of my time at all times…so I improvised.

I added six hours to what my published start time was (even though I think I set off a bit earlier) and did mental math with my watch times from there.

Also, I had this race split into sections to try to “mind trick” my way through it.

My brain was certainly occupied.

My first section, or stop, was for Spencer and Penny.

Spencer was named the official dog of the 126th Boston Marathon and, along with his sister Penny, has become a “symbolic supporter” over the years.

He is currently in a battle with cancer and I knew going into the race that I wanted to stop for him, if at all possible.

After Spencer and Penny, I wanted to get to 7.2 so I could tell myself there was under 20 to go.

I took a fueling stop every 8 miles, so that was added into my “schedule”.

Then, I focused on getting to the halfway point as the “scream tunnel” (true to it’s name, by the way) was there.

Side note: I thought the crowds were amazing for other Majors, but the people who spectate the Boston Marathon are a different breed. By the time I got to certain spots on the course, there weren’t many spectators left, but the phrase “quality over quantity” could not have been more true here. They may have been few, but their voices were mighty. They were not only loud, but they were so specific in their cheers. They said my name, sure, but they weren’t just screaming “Go!”. They had whole encouraging monologues and chants to go with it. That is what struck me the most and I fed off of that energy. I didn’t think I was going to have “cheerleaders” for this race, but I was wrong…and SO happy to be. Thank you to you all, both ones I knew and ones that I did not, for being WICKED AWESOME!

After getting a proper screaming at by the Wellesley girls, it was time for a couple of “film points” before I hit the hills.

Side note (yes, another one. Sorry!): I was SO nervous about making the time limit for this race, as I’ve said, that I wasn’t going to film. HOWEVER, I thought it might provide a distraction from the pain AND provide something I hadn’t been able to find in all my race research…a view from the back of the pack.

I counted those hills down, as well, knowing there were four.

Then, I was aiming for that Citgo sign…first seeing it, then reeling it in.

I got to the sign and knew there was still a little hill under an overpass to deal with.

However, that came and went and, suddenly, I was faced with the last two infamous turns.

Right on Hereford, left on Boylston.

They truly had snuck up on me along with those same thoughts from the start.

This can’t be real.

O. MY. GOSH.

Finish:

It WAS real, though.

I could (literally) see it.

All that heartbreak, worry, and hill work had led to this.

The finish line.

After I crossed the line, a lovely volunteer handed me my medal (I didn’t have them put it on for a special reason), I took a few more pictures, I got a heat sheet with tape, I collected my finisher’s goodies, and I started the mile or so-walk back to my hotel…don’t worry, it felt A LOT closer than anything in Berlin did.

I actually felt great, all hills considered.

And, if you can believe it, I had a new PR (by 26 seconds but, hey, it counts!)

Meet-up:

Catherine and I checked in with each other a couple times on my walk back, via phone, and agreed to meet at my hotel.

I was able to meet up with her and her dad in the lobby of the Omni with no problem and…

(super loud drumroll)

SHE GAVE ME MY MEDAL!

This moment is why I requested to be handed the medal at the finish.

I wanted Catherine, as the person who began my running journey, to put it around my neck.

That’s what I call a FULL CIRCLE moment (even though, I have a few more laps in me)!

Side note: Catherine also completed Boston that day. Can you tell…other than from her medal?

Post-Race:

I immediately went to take a bath in that tub I requested with a bath bomb and quickly discovered the drain wouldn’t go down/hold.

Now, I was undressed at this point, so calling maintenance was out, and on a time crunch.

I didn’t have time to soak in the bath as long as I wanted to (the rest of the night) since I was meeting up with my friends for a slew of celebrating.

I needed to get in and out in a (relatively) quick manner.

After debating my limited options for a minute or two, I did the only thing I could think of.

I shoved a hand towel in the drain and kept the water running.

Good news?

It did stay warmer that way and it worked.

After that, I got ready in bed with my feet up and headed to meet my friends (the ones I stayed with pre-Omni).

We went to the Mile 27 post-race party, at Fenway Park, to start with.

I didn’t get to touch/put my legs up on the Green Monster as planned (the line was WAY to long to stand in on marathon legs), but I did see a proposal and was able to get Cracker Jacks, a Fenway Frank, and vanilla soft serve in a mini cap cup.

SCORE!

Then, since our original destination of Wahlburgers was closed, we grabbed Tasty Burger (where a guy tried to, jokingly, buy my medal) and we headed to Cheers!

Yup, where everybody knows your name…and it ended up feeling exactly like that.

Check out my YouTube video called “Boston Marathon: Trip Haul-Part Two” for why.

Then, it was back to the hotel and to my bed.

While I didn’t get the deep sleep I expected (now I feel those hills!), the relief was real.

Once again, I stayed for a full day after the marathon to get some more sight-seeing and celebration in.

(Note: There were “race papers”, the Boston Globe and the Boston Herald, available the morning after at the bigger 7-Elevens. They didn’t list finisher names, though.)

And what a celebration it was.

It started with brunch at Clink, an old prison, with Jen, Kim, and Katie.

“Decompressing” over eggs and bacon was a great idea, ladies!

Then, I met up with Catherine, again, for some more adventures.

Those started by going back to the beginning…meaning back to Hopkinton…to take pictures of the start line and the marathon statues.

Next, we were able to meet up with Betty Robinson’s (check my Berlin blog and Instagram posts) granddaughter to deliver a gift I had for her.

Then, we grabbed some food (that pizza…yum), cannoli, and headed back to the hotel.

After “testing” the cannoli, I packed up, we had a sleepover, and Catherine drove me to the airport early the next morning.

Did I mention how amazingly generous my friends are and how I owe them SO much?

‘Cause they are and I do!

Then, just like that, it was over.

Been there, got the jacket…and the sore muscles.

I did “people watch” in the airport in case Ms. Switzer happened to be nearby.

No luck.

Side note: Masks weren’t required for the flight home!

This was a BIG race, but an even BIGGER experience.

Thank you all for joining me for it.

Please leave me a comment below if you have any questions.

YouTube Boston Marathon Video:

Star #4…just two more!

Next up: The 2022 Bank of America Chicago Marathon

This one has taken a long time for me to write.

Sorry about that.

I just couldn’t face it right away and I think you will see why.

I am getting ahead of myself, though, so let’s start at the beginning.

Here is my 2021 BMW Berlin Marathon experience.

Why Berlin?:

I’ll be honest, as much as I did want to visit Germany, the deciding reason for my going to Berlin was that it plays host to one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors.

Interesting fact: The 2019 New York City Marathon, which I ran, was the last in-person, mass (meaning not just for the elite runners) Major before the pandemic. The 2021 BMW Berlin Marathon was the first one back!

Entry:

Here are the ways you can get into the Berlin Marathon (if I missed any, let me know!)

• Elite (i.e. super fast people)
• Qualify based on time
• Travel agencies with marathon/tour packages
• Ballot (lottery drawing of sorts. Berlin has better odds than most)
• Charity
• Claim a deferred entry
• Jubilee Club (run 10 Berlin Marathons, join the free club, and have guaranteed entry for life)

I did enter the ballot in 2019 (for the cancelled 2020 race) as a part of a team and was unsuccessful.

The second time around, I again entered as a part of a team (two-person team this time) as I still believed it would increase my odds.

You see, if either/any member of your team is drawn, your entire team is in.

Knowing my luck as I do, I knew my other team member’s luck would be doing all the heavy lifting.

Thanks to Nicki, or Captain Nicki, we were drawn!

Side note: Even though you are on a team, your registrations are treated individually. This means, if someone cannot participate, it does not effect the rest of the team...other than you missing them, of course.

Hotel:

I stayed at the Berlin Marriott Hotel and split a room with another friend who was running.

Splitting it kept it within budget for me while still being able to enjoy the many “finer things” this hotel had to offer.

My friend found this hotel and it was incredible!

Thanks for finding it and being my roomie, Jen!

It was right by Potsdamer Platz, was close to the start/finish line, had a couple of restaurants connected to it, had an executive lounge for free drinks and buffet-style food, AND had post-race perks that I will get into later.

(Tip: Budget for taxis! Not everything is within walking distance and there aren’t a ton of transportation options.)

Expo:

I went to the Expo as soon as I had met up with everyone in Berlin.

Jen and I dropped off our bags and our group headed back to the airport.

A different one this time.

The very unique and cool thing about Berlin’s expo is that it is held at an old airport called Tempelhof.

While I LOVED the venue, I didn’t much care for the photo lines.

We certainly weren’t at RunDisney (where you pic and run) anymore!

(Note: We did have to wear masks practically everywhere and show our paperwork for a special wristband we had to wear throughout the entire event (i.e. any event/race space). Some people even leave them on until they fall off. Mine lasted until the morning after I got home before I cut it off.)

I did buy some merch and was even able to locate the turns-out-to-be elusive plush of Fridolin Flink.

(Tip: The mascot’s “friend” sold them. They are not sold inside with the official merch.)

After getting my bib, shirt, and some pictures, we headed back to the hotel.

Shopping sure takes a lot out of a girl…and her wallet!

Pre-Race:

I didn’t have NEAR the things that I wanted to do in Berlin versus New York but, through research, I was able to find a “few” things.

I saved most of it for after the marathon to try to save my legs.

Ironically though, our first activity wasn’t really “leg-saving” in nature.

Unlike previous races, I WANTED to do the pre-marathon shakeout run called “The Breakfast Run” but, with Covid still running rampant, it was not held.

I figured out a way to still have this experience.

Although, it wasn’t free or quite the same.

It was more of a “Breakfast Walk”.

My friends and I DID get breakfast (at the hotel) and DID get to go to the 1936 Olympic Stadium.

We just didn’t get to walk/run the track.

That might’ve been for the best, though, because we got to really soak in our time there…and the little bit of rain that fell while we were there.

I REALLY wanted to go to the stadium after reading the book “Fast Girls”.

I fell in love with the story of Betty Robinson and even had replica Team USA tanks and a sweater made.

Before you think I’m too crazy, go check out Betty’s story on my Instagram.

I dare you NOT to be inspired!

After that, we found our names on the Hall of Fame wall and headed to our next activity…spectating the inline skating marathon (another unique part of Berlin’s event weekend)!

The costumes were fun and it was interesting being on the other side of things for a change.

Unfortunately for me, and the group who had to deal with me, I felt AWFUL.

UPCOMING TMI ALERT!!

Being a female stinks sometimes.

I literally had to sit most of the spectating out on the nearby sidelines.

I rallied a bit, but between the issue I mentioned above, my stomach-churning nerves, and probably some sneaky jetlag, I was kind of a party pooper.

Sorry!

At this point, we needed to be getting some dinner and getting to bed.

The pre-race dinner we chose was close to the hotel and a chain I was familiar with.

Both key, I think.

It was called Vapiano.

The only thing to report here was actually getting to the restaurant.

While Vapiano was close to the hotel, I had just drug my friends around Tiergarten after spectating the inline event to go on a total “goose hunt” for a set of trees with the “Stand By Me” lyrics carved into them.

My directions were wrong and it was a lot more walking than it should’ve been to get there and to dinner.

Oops! Sorry again!

Thanks for standing by me and my crazy ideas, guys!

The Race:

Getting There:

This is where, again, the choice of hotel was ideal.

After breakfast at the hotel, the girls and I made the walk to the starting area with no issues (but plenty of bathroom stops!).

O, in case you were wondering, Jen reminded me about deodorant so that I wouldn’t have that issue to deal with.

Thanks, again, Jen!

Start:

This race was different than a lot of other races for me.

I was attempting a world record and, thus, was running for time…an extremely ambitious time for me.

Despite training hard for this goal, I was FREAKING OUT!

Luckily, we didn’t have to linger long.

I met up with someone who was going to help pace me and take the necessary pictures for proof along the way (every 2 kilometers) and, after the pre-start clapping Berlin is known for, we were off.

Kilometers 1-42 (Berlin is NOT marked by miles):

Since I was going for the record, I set out with my pacer instead of with Jen and Nicki.

I was planning to stay with my pacer for as long as possible with both of us having the option to strike out on our own, at any point, if needed.

That plan lasted all of about 6k until I exercised the option to fall back.

I just couldn’t keep up AND weave other runners at the same time (it was very congested in the beginning).

I willed myself to keep fighting (you never know right? It’s not over ’til it’s over!) and continued taking the “proof pictures” the rest of the race…even long after all hope of the record time was gone.

(Note: Even though I was setting the record instead of breaking it, the application I sent in after the race was denied. I knew it was a long shot, but it hurt all the same.)

That fight became a downright struggle early on in the race (well before the halfway point, if my memory serves me correctly).

I didn’t know if it was lingering “female problems” (which I’ll spare you from any more details there), jetlag, not hydrating properly, or the hot and humid weather, but I DID know my legs were SO tight.

I went from focusing on the record to hoping I could just get to the finish line in time.

I remember even looking behind me a couple of times expecting to see the sweepers coming for me.

I counted kilometers down and took a lot of walk breaks, but nothing seemed to be helping much.

Although, a cup of Coke (the race was, uniquely, offering tea, too. I took whatever I thought could help at this point) and some runners (most of them speaking German) commenting on my outfit were brighter spots.

Side note: I was wearing a very traditional German dress called a dirndl for this race. One lady, early on, came up to me speaking in German and pointing to my dress. She seemed so disappointed when I said I couldn’t understand her, so I just nodded along like I understood EVERYONE after that. I wish that I knew what all was said to me that day, but it all seemed positive!

I somehow made it to the road leading up to the Brandenburg Gate and looked over to the spot we had spectated at the day before.

We had agreed this would be our meeting spot and where Alex would stand to cheer us on.

He was there and was signing the number “1” to me.

Marathon brain was real at this point, so I couldn’t figure out what he meant.

I couldn’t believe that I was the first one to that point.

I thought Jen and Nicki passed me long ago and I had simply missed them in my haze of pain.

Turns out, he did mean that I was the first one he’d seen.

Finish:

FINALLY, I crossed the finish line (it is not as you pass under the Gate like some people might think) and got my medal.

Side note: Doesn’t Berlin have the BEST race photos?! Not only did they mask a lot of my pain, but they were so artsy! Prost to the photographers!

Then, unimaginably, the struggle got worse.

I turned in my shoe timing chip (so I wouldn’t be charged. I would’ve just kept it, if it had been cool, but it was plain) and saw a photo op.

I knew I’d regret it later if I didn’t take a picture in the finish area and I saw no other backgrounds set up, so I got in line.

I could barely stand at this point.

The runners around me in line, recognizing this, agreed to hold my place so that I could sit down until my turn.

I got my picture, thanked those runners, and started the “long journey” out of that area.

Now, I had really wanted to go to the currywurst stand I had scouted the day before (I didn’t want to risk trying it pre-marathon) to (try to) celebrate…and to get some carbs.

Those usually help.

I thought I had some time and it was in the same general vicinity as the meeting place, so I started hobbling there.

All along this walk I had to take breaks, I considered asking for medical attention, and I questioned why I was doing this (running) to myself.

I swore I would NEVER do this again.

I felt THAT horrible.

I made it to “Wurst”, got my food (which did help), sat down, took a couple of pictures, got “checked on” by another runner, and headed to the meeting place.

Meet-up:

My group wasn’t at the meeting place.

Unlike London, I knew Alex had been/would be in that exact spot, so I (correctly) assumed that I had missed them.

It had taken me FOREVER to walk there, after all.

Then, I made the best decision of my entire trip.

I decided to take a cab to the hotel with the emergency cash I had stashed in my race belt along with my credit card and room key.

The only cabs around at the time, since roads were still closed/filled with runners, were bicycle cabs.

The cab-cyclist wasn’t sure about taking me at first but, after I told him what hotel I was staying at and he saw the pure desperation in my eyes, he decided to take me.

I made it back to my room and the first words I heard were from Jen and were something along the lines of, “Hello, Miss Berlin Legend!”.

That was nice to hear…even if I wasn’t really ready to celebrate or fully accept congratulations at that point.

Then, I got caught up on Jen and Nicki’s race experience* and felt even worse for inwardly complaining.

*Since that isn’t my story to tell, I’m not going to elaborate.

I was broken.

In body, in mind, and in spirit.

Nevertheless, and only because I had such a great group “gently pushing” me, I showered and joined them for a celebration dinner.

Post-Race:

For this race, I took my own advice again and stayed an extra day for “Marathon Monday”.

(Tip: Be sure to get up early the day after the race to secure a paper. ALL runners are in this one! I tried too late, again, and spent most of the day making detours to try to find one. Luckily, it turned into one of my favorite moments from the trip when a runner I met in the airport said he’d send me one free of charge. Thanks, again, Andrew!)

I was still disappointed, but in a slightly better headspace when I got up that morning and I was going to do what I could to keep it that way.

I made sure to do what I could to stop the lactic acid from building, too.

The morning started with Jen and I having brunch at TV Tower (while there was an elevator, there also were some stairs. UGH!).

We could see the start/finish line from where we were eating as well as the Victory Column.

I decided that was my sign to be thankful and to try to declare victory.

I finished, after all, and was one step (or star) closer to completing another/the main goal.

Then, we proceeded to do a few other things.

These things included walking (some of) the remnants of the Berlin Wall, visiting the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, checking out Checkpoint Charlie, putting our legs up on some walls, and enjoying the hotel’s infrared seat (uh, yes please!).

Then, I got a Covid test, packed up, and started the long journey home.

While this journey did include Whataburger, it also included a long delay and an unexpected welcome home.

You see, the morning after I got home, I went to work only to be permanently sent home within the hour… and after I had struggled up the stairs, too!

That, coupled with my race experience, really did a number on my confidence…as a runner and as a person.

That victorious feeling from the top of the TV Tower was gone…in record time.

I found it hard to declare victory in the face of that much “defeat”.

That is why it took me SO long to blog about this race.

While I try to disassociate the race from the trip and the trip from losing my job, it is hard to think about one without the others…and that makes it ALL hard to think about.

Yet, here we are.

Being reminded about the good things helps.

I am thankful for those and for the lessons I learned (you sometimes learn more in the struggle, you know) and now, many months later, I am reclaiming my victory.

Despite all that happened through my “less than stellar” race and return experience, I really enjoyed Berlin (the people were SO nice!) and I would love to go back to Germany someday.

Please leave me a comment below if you have any questions.

YouTube Berlin Marathon Video:

That’s all from me and Star #3!

Next up: The 2022 Boston Marathon

I am a HUGE Friends fan so, when I saw this run come out, I raced to sign-up!

Now that the time is here, I could not BE more excited.

This is going to be my “Turkey Trot” this year and I may just give Phoebe’s running style a try.

The race offered some fun extras in the form of downloadable recipe cards and a free water bottle.

I do wish those recipe cards came with a Friends recipe on them (maybe something from Monica? I’m a runner and love my feet, but I don’t want to taste them. Sorry Rachel!) or all the swag wasn’t brown (totally appreciate the fall theming, but Friends is really colorful).

HOWEVER, the sweater they included is AMAZING!

It is thick and comfy and perfect for a “friendly” game of tag football or eating a grilled cheese sandwich.

If you are wondering where the medal is, not to worry, it is on the way and the race was WONDERFUL about providing updates (including the note you see pictured above).

The medal has the infamous “dressed turkey” on it and I can’t wait to dance around with that without having to put a buttered bird on my head.

See you next time and, if you have any questions, let me know.

I’ll be there for you!

I have a confession…I am AWFUL at skincare.

I don’t have a good skincare routine, because I don’t really have a routine at all.

The shame I feel is real.

I knew this is something I needed to fix, sooner rather than later, and that is where Tanri comes in.

I was able to test out four of their amazing products and found that I could easily fit each one into my daily, and running, routine.

The four products were:

SPF 30 Sunscreen

I enjoyed this sunscreen as it didn’t have a distinctive smell and is mineral-based/all-natural. It also didn’t sting as a traditional sunscreen would when it got in my eyes (as sunscreen always seems to do).

The one negative about this product is that it is a little stubborn on application. For example, I didn’t rub it in nearly enough the first couple of uses and it ran off my legs like water after I started to sweat.

That’s ok, though. Tanri is just trying to tell me I need to slow down and spend more time “securing” my skin.

SPF 15 Daily Moisturizer

Again, I’m not the best with skincare, much less daily skincare.

This little pump bottle made it easy, though, and I am happy to report it is a “founding father” of my new routine.

After Sun Restorative Moisturizer

Being (cough, cough) not fast, I can spend a lot of time out in the sun to finish my runs.

That makes this product a “skin-saver”.

I think I will get the most use out of it!

Chai SPF 15 Lip Balm

Last, but certainly not least, was a product I didn’t even think about for suncare.

I mean, I know people use the phrase “sun-kissed”, but do you usually sunscreen your lips?

I know I didn’t…until now.

I LOVED this product.

It was easy to apply, make my lips feel great (and protected), and smelled of chai.

Win-win-win!

Thank you, Tanri, for helping this distant relative of Casper and skincare newb find her way.

If you want to score some of your own Tanri products and improve your skin (routine), use the code BIBRAVE10 for 10% off on tanri.com!

Hurry, though, the code expires on 6/30/21.

Now, go (safely) soak up the sun!

I have done a TON of virtual races since I began my running journey in 2013.

HOWEVER, RTE’s Mission Mt. Olympus is something else…it is a virtual experience!

Now, let me explain what I mean by that.

A normal race, virtual or otherwise, is typically for one run or one distance.

RTE’s experience is not.

It is six runs at varying distances and each run comes with it’s own unique challenge.

The overall objective of this series is to help Atalanta (the Greek Goddess of Running) secure a spot in the Pantheon by solving individual puzzles that the other gods have left behind.

Kind of like the challenges from “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” except without the two-faced guy (it does still have a three-headed dog around, though).

You will receive audio clues from the gods themselves through the Runkeeper app and a puzzle to solve after you’ve done your run via e-mail.

BONUS: As part of your registration, you will be entered to win weekly giveaways (i.e. Aftershokz and Knockaround sunglasses)!

I LOVE puzzles and riddles, so this experience was right up my alley.

I could not wait to get through my run to see what the gods had deemed too hard for a mere mortal to solve. It was extremely motivating but, more importantly, FUN!

While you don’t get a medal or a t-shirt for this experience, as you would for a virtual race, you get something even better.

You get multiple runs that break up the monotonous training cycle and an invite to the Pantheon Party (I won’t spoil it for you, but it is more, dare I say better, than a free banana).

Moral of the story?

If you are looking for some fun on the run while also challenging your brain, sign up for this experience.

Otherwise, we may just have another Greek tragedy on our hands.

Use the code “BIBRAVE10” for 10% off registration and tell Hermes that I sent you!

God(s)speed!

Let me start by saying that I have wanted a ROAD iD product for a LONG time.

Well, Christmas came early and I am now the proud owner of a Wrist iD!

So, let me tell you the pros and cons of this product in case you want to customize one of your own, too.

Pros:

• Safety- sadly, as a (mostly) solo female runner, I often have to think about what I would do if something happened to me out on the road. This little accessory gives me piece of mind. It has all of my emergency contacts on it in case I am unable to provide that information myself.
• Motivational- while I have been lacking in this area lately, I do love that, when I’m feeling down, all I have to do is to look down at my wrist for a little jolt of encouragement via my favorite running mantra.
• Adaptability- I mean it goes with everything. Even my craziest running costumes. That’s all I have to say about that!

Cons:

• Umm…the clasp took me a while to get the hang off. Although, ROAD iD does give you a “how-to”. Instructions are hard.

As you can see, the pros outweigh the cons, or semi-con, so it is safe (haha get it) to say that I highly recommend grabbing this product for your next run.

BONUS: If you want to score some free shipping on a ROAD iD product of your own, use the code SHIP4FREEBRP!

Tell them Meredith sent you!

This week, I participated in a VERY sweet race.

The 2020 Virtual Allstate Hot Chocolate 5k- Oklahoma City through BibRave, to be exact!

First of all, let me get this out of the way.

I would’ve LOVED to do this race “irl” (wouldn’t we all?), but I tried my best to still make this a sweet experience.

First, I planned to run this in a place that I don’t normally run in.

Having treadmill trouble definitely helped with this step and I ended up running in a near-by school playground!

Second, I set up “stations” at every mile containing a different element of hot chocolate so that, by the end of the race, I would have everything I needed to build the perfect cuppa!

Lastly, I saved my swag until after I’d finished the race as a reward!

Moral of the story?

You can make every run a little sweeter with some simple switches.

I can’t wait to run one of these races in person one day (maybe with some of you) but, until then, enjoy this video and STAY SWEET!

Disclaimer: I received Runderwear products to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Last year, I had the extraordinary opportunity to run my first international race…in Paris.

Disneyland Paris that is.

While I spent most of my time with everyone’s favorite mouse, I did have the chance to explore the City of Light a bit.

I ate macarons, sat at an outdoor café, bought a beret, and visited the Eiffel Tower!

Despite getting to do these things, though, I would LOVE to go back and explore this wonderful city even more some day.

This is where you come in.

You see, your someday could be right around the corner, because…

(drumroll)

Runderwear is giving you and a friend a chance to run in France as participants in the 2020 Paris Marathon!

Just so you know, the Paris Marathon starts at the Arc de Triomphe, runs through the Place de la Bastille, AND has views of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower.

Talk about a walking running tour!

The sweepstakes includes:

• Two (2) admissions to the Paris Marathon in April 2020
• Round-trip airfare for two (2) from the United States to London, England
• Hotel accommodations for one night in London, England
• Two (2) Eurostar tickets from London, England to Paris, France
• Hotel accommodations for three nights in Paris, France
• A full Runderwear kit
• Plus, additional partner prizes!

Read all of the details and ENTER NOW at: http://bit.ly/bibraveparis