Thursday evening, Rachel and Peter arrived and we had drinks at Rouge while planning just how early we would be up the next morning to get into SeaWheeze Exclusive Runner Shop with everything lulu. Ummm, what is that I just heard, Rach? You actually said we should be in line by 5:30. 5:30am?! So we were up bright and early to head to the Vancouver Convention Centre for some shopping. We were so far back in line, the line wrapped all the way around the Convention Centre down by the water and toward and past where the float planes take off. For those of you who know this area, you know that is a long way. When we got into the Convention Centre (after about 2 1/2 hours) we then waited another hour as the line inside zigzagged. We were thrilled when we finally got in. And even more thrilled when Rachel grabbed two Tuck and Flow shirts from a rack that was just coming out to restock the floor. These shirts went so quickly and we were only seeing them in people's piles so while Rach was waiting by the restocking area, I was actually scoping out piles in hopes someone was deciding not to take theirs. The team work and early morning paid off. Then it was off to get our race packages, finally get something to eat, and plan out the rest of our day.
After lunch we headed to Capilano Suspension Bridge. The bus drivers were quite humourous, or maybe it was just us being overtired. We walked on the CliffWalk before checking out the Suspension Bridge. It was good but a little wobbly and so high up. Once on the other side, there was a Treetop Adventure that was some small suspension bridges. Toward the end of all the bridges, we discovered we were going the wrong way. Ooops! But it kind of added to the adventure. Exhausted after the early morning, an afternoon nap was in order before supper and a quiet evening of Starbucks and an early night to prepare for the race.
My time away was full of early mornings with being up early for race day. My nerves were a mess over race day actually being here. When I booked this run eleven months ago, it seemed so far away and then the day had arrived. My laces were laced, complete with my race chip, featuring Chip Wilson's face - founder of Lulu. I get why he is smiling in the picture as his company continues to make him financially successful. Over 10 000 racing and each one wearing lulu and purchasing more while here for the race.
Lining up in the chutes was well organized. We had to walk a bit from the Convention Centre to the start line but they had the waves labelled of the time you wanted to finish the half, very well marked. And pace runners in each chute. The energy while you waited to start was electric. The music was pumping, announcer was motivating and encouraging and people were dancing/bouncing around before we began. They started each wave in a staggered start which makes so much sense and lessens the congestion.
My training hit some dips and so I was realistic about the time that I wanted to finish the race. I also took into consideration the race route as it is hilly, including a long incline over Burrad Strett Bridge that we crossed one way to take us into Kitsilano and then back again to head toward the Seawall. The first half of my run was okay and my timing was decent. However, the second half which included the Seawall really had me dragging my butt. The Seawall is flat but it is full of twists and turns along the water as it passes Granville, Coal Harbour, and then into Stanley Park. It is a beautiful part of the run but it really played tricks on my mind while running. There were people cheering all along the way and music pumping. It was encouraging! They even had the BC Lions cheerleaders cheering us on.
I planned to finish between 2:15 and 2:30 with hopes of being closer to 2:15. In the end, I finished with an official time of 2:20:08. So I am content with that time but I already have thoughts of running next year. I want a better time and because it was such a fun experience, really would love to do it again. At the finish, we got damp, scented cloths along with a bottle of water and granola bar. We received our lulu hat and medal. The medal is a gold carrot and really heavy. I already took a bite out of mine. We also were provided with a brunch which was needed right after such a long run to help refuel us.
Rach not only looks cold, she was freezing!
The weather was cool and overcast but I was thrilled that it wasn't raining. It was misty at the finish but felt good. There was a breeze off Seawall which felt good because the humidity was really quite warm and I was glad I chose to run in just my tank. Afterward, I was chilled so was grateful to have my tech shirt and jacket. A hot shower was definitely needed, followed by a nap. I always get a headache after my long runs and that always helps to cure it. We were also given some sage products and I loved the peppermint oil that helps with headache relief so I rolled some of that on before drifting off.
After my sleep, it was time to get ready and go celebrate!!! I met Kelli, her husband Kenton, and Tamara for a visit over drinks and appetizers. It was great to be able to connect with them. Then I met up with Rachel and Peter for supper at Cactus Club at the waterfront. It was fun to celebrate our accomplishment and just relax with the run behind us.
But we are all seriously thinking about doing it again next year. It is so much fun!
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