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Hartford Half Marathon Review

I am a BibRavePro. In return for promoting this race, and discount code, BibRave paid for my entry. TheHartford Marathon Foundation, is a local organization that puts on many events (5k, 10k, half, full, tri, and a 96 mile event). I have run the full marathon about 6 times, but haven't been on the course in about 5 years, so I was really excited to run half... Half crazy right? The race started at 8am. The weather was perfect!! There were thousands of volunteers. There were so many awesome people cheering. It was such a joy. Along the course there was well maintained port-a-potties. The course was well marked. There were lots of aid stations (each had water and Nuun Endurance). There were several stations with soda &candy station (you passed by the candy twice). The course takes you through Hartford, East Hartford and South Windsor. I love the variety in this course. The elevation on the course was pretty flat. You got to run on some major roads and finished under the Sailors and Soldiers Arch. You could run the 5K, half or full. There is an option for a relay team for the full. The medals are great.

I loved the Beer tent, with Apple Cider and Hard Seltzer option.

Only disappointment was with the post race food. They used to have awesome veggie options. It was only Clam chowder, so I had no post fuel... Highly recommend this race. Looking forward to returning in 2023

#bibchat #bibravepro #hartfordBR

Providence Marathon Review

The Providence Marathon offered runners an easy place for packet pick-up, along with a wonderful swag with a grey, soft, warm, good looking jacket and a backpack with a strategically-placed zipper. The marathon and half marathon were staged at the Rhode Island State House, with a very large grassy area for meeting friends and preparing for the race. Parking was plentiful, close, very easy to find and very reasonably priced at Providence Place and the Convention Center for a total of $15.00 for the day! The weather was sunny, clear and calm with an invigorating opening temperature of 45 degrees rising to a balmy 65 degrees.

The marathon course started near the state house, then meandered along the water, along tree lined residential streets, passing by a golf course, and running along several miles on the bike path which offered shade and scenic views of the Providence River. The race was exceptionally well planned with the race clearly marked, fully staffed with an amazing number of helpful volunteers with water, lots of nu drink, pretzels, tangerines, and plenty of encouragement. There were many volunteers at every turn, along police and aid workers strategically place to direct traffic and to offer help if needed.

Of course, after 26 miles of running, the finish line was so welcome, especially with the beer garden and food and of course, the large medal! What a perfect day!

#ProvMaraBR Bibchat Providencemarathon

Virtual Oakland Marathon ( I hit the trails)

Disclaimer: I received a free entry 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!

I’m very excited to have participated in this virtual event! I really love CA, and look forward to running this race live in the future. I was impressed with all the motivational emails, facebook group and more.

The long sleeve UA shirt is sweet!

Downloading my results only took seconds.

Once of my favorite virtual running experiences, but I have to admit, I’m so looking forward to the nice weather and going outdoors.

I highly recommend registering for one of the many distances in the future, so much support and great gear.

Oakland Marathon

In the 60′s today! WOO HOO first time this year in a tank!

WhitePaws RunMitts

Disclaimer: I received a free pair of WhitePaws RunMitts 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!

Living in Massachusetts I was excited for the opportunity to try WhitePaws RunMitts,

One of my least favorite things about winter running is how cold my hands get . I ran a trail 50k each month since October, and training runs, tried to run or walk daily. One of the first things that I like about WhitePaws RunMitts is that the cover easily flips up to expose your fingers. I love having quick access to my fingers during my while outdoors. I run with my friend Laura and her 2 Doodles, so I hold the leash, and like to take photos, I’ve even logged into Zoom meeting while walking outdoors.

It may be getting warmer, but I recommend you order a pair of RunMitts so you’ll have them for next winter. I love my Black Wind and Water resistant pair , and now I want more colors for next year. First, I’m getting my favorite color purple.

They come in three sizes (I ordered the small ) and six colors. WhitePaws also has Wickn’Dry RunMitts, plus FaceMitts. I’ve seen the other colors and added to my gift wishlist.

Now through March 31, 2121, you can save $5 off all 2020 WhitePaws RunMitts mittens with promo BIBRAVE5.

And if you need one more reason to support this awesome small business, it’s Black-owned and woman-owned. Women supporting women :) Maybe a gift for the outdoor woman in your circle.

#Bibchat #BIbRavePro

10k Elf Run

I received entry into the Elf Virtual Run as part of being a BibRave Pro (ambassador). Check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Happy December! Due to the craziness of 2020, I decided to run my 10k on the trails in my Live Full Die Empty Tights! My trip to my brothers house in VA, has been extended, so I didn't have my holiday run outfit or Elf Swag with me.

I have to admit, before COVID I was not a fan of the virtual races, but with this Pandemic cancelling so many IRL races, they have been good for motivation.

This race was awesome for the Holiday themed swag and some Holiday Cheer.

I’ve been quarantined with my brother and daughter here in Virginia, so the weather is much better than Massachusetts. I’m taking advantage of getting outside to run or walk daily. I’m especially excited to run the trails, and at Prince William Forest Park, only 15 minutes away. I love this park! I ran my 10k and had some great yoga and meditation time.

The race was so easy to Register for, as I had an account from a previous race.

The swag is amazing, but mine is up North, so more photos soon. I love seeing the hoodie on my friends.

Check out the race and Ram Racing, as they have so many fun races with sweet swag.

We all need motivation during this crazy time!

#bibchat bibravepro ElfRunBR

Winter Running with the amazing BUFF DRYFlx :)

BUFF DryFlx Review:

Disclaimer: I received a BUFF® DryFlx+ neckwarmer and hat 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!

Hello Winter in New England!

I was super excited to test out the BUFF DryFlx Hat + Neckwarmer, as I spend several hours a day outdoors on the trails. December 5th, was my Quarantine Puppy 50k Trail race, and the temps were in the 30-40′s with training in the same temps the past month. This combo worked perfect, so light and comfortable. The race mandated mask wearing at the start/finish and aid stations, so my Neckwarmer was perfect. I usually wear a Buff this time of year anyway, but with Covid it works for both.

The DRYFlx is engineered and knitted in one-piece. Designed with technical smart zones that increase breathability and targeted warmth, while enhancing active fit and comfort with an articulated mask design – so you can focus on what matters. Usually, my head gets too warm, then cold from sweat, this material tackled that problem. I need to buy more colors now, I love my fuchsia :)

4-Way ULTRA STRETCH

Moisture-management

Thermal Insulation

100% Seamless Woven Design

Reflective Elements

Specs

Product Dimensions: (approx.) 12.2 (L) x 10.4 (W) inches

Weight: 2 ounces, I love how lightweight both are, so comfortable and warm without all the added bulk.

I love company’s that give back: As an engaged partner of UNICEF, BUFF has committed to donating 2% of global yearly profits to projects helping combat COVID-19.

materials

Fabric Content 49% Polyamide, 47% Polyester, 4% Elastane

Here’s a video link to their webpage, for more details, colors and styles.

https://player.vimeo.com/video/382098776

Care Instructions

Hand or machine wash in warm water with mild soap

Do not use fabric softeners

Do not bleach

Do not machine dry

Do not iron

https://buffusa.com/shop-buff/dryflx-collection/women.html

#BUFFRunBR BibChat BibRavePro

North Shore Virtual Turkey Trot : Half Marathon

Disclaimer: I received an entry into this race 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!

I was excited to sign up for this Virtual Half Marathon, as I could run my holiday calories off and stay motivated during the Pandemic.

There was multiple distances to choose from, and amazing swag! The finishers medal is a sweet Pumpkin Pie design. I love the soft jacket and beanie, as I wore on Medal Monday. I highly recommend this race and the series by Ram Racing.

https://ramraces.enmotive.com

You receive a link to download your results, and can make some fun photos

This race has closed out, but there’s a fun Elf Run with the same holiday swag!

Check out their Social Media on IG, Twitter, and Facebook.

Its a fun way to run when you want and maybe grab some family members to run/walk with you. I went out on the trails solo on the best day of the weekend. It was so nice to push for 13.1 miles for this virtual race, otherwise, I would have done less mileage.

Happy Holidays

Running is not cancelled!

#AmericasTTBR BibChat BibRavePro

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Team In Training Resilience Challenge 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.

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month— and I’m absolutely honored to have been a part of the Team In Training Resilience Challenge. It got me out the door for a few extra workouts, where I would have sat on the sofa. I also learned more about the fight against cancer and how Team In Training supports that effort, and educates people on their mission.

The challenge was to raise as much as you could for this cause ($500 was the goal) and move 50 miles in September. Along with an amazing and active Facebook community, you got the following supports/items:

Resilience Challenge Playlist

Fundraising and Social Media Toolkit

Training Resources with an Exclusive Event Facebook Group

Badges and Achievement Milestones

Digital Finisher Certificate

Virtual Finisher Medal

Virtual Post-Race Celebration

Emails and a phone call to motivate and check in to see if you have any questions on fundraising or any topic.

I was happy to participate and help spread the message. I had friends workout with me virtually, but I didn't get a team, due to the fact my friends had so many other virtual challenges and fundraisers already by the time I sent out. But, we were happy to participate. There was so much motivation on the Facebook page, and fun photos.

Its not to late to donate or share.

Every dollar counts. Cancer patients need us now more than ever, which is why we rely on the support of generous volunteers like you! A few of our teammates came together to share their connection to LLS and how they were empowered to conquer the Resilience Challenge: watch the video here.

#Bibchat #BibRavePro #TNTResilienceBR

Freedoms Run Marathon or Half Marathon

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Freedoms Run Marathon 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.

I was excited for the opportunity to run this race for the 3rd time this year, then as we all know, Covid-19 stopped all our IRL races. I ran a half marathon instead of the full on the actual day. I’m in N.C., so I ran on trails and remembered all the wonderful aid stations, beautiful views and awesome post party. My Dad used to love watching me at this one, he loved the parks.

Freedoms Run still had an option to run virtually from home, and everyone is deferred to 2021, so I have another 11 months to train.

Join me next year and Run back in history, with this scenic, challenging race of historic proportions. Covering the expanse on Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, C&0 Canal, Antietam National Battlefield and the Civil War era towns connecting them, our course offers expansive views that has named us one of the “Top 25 Half Marathons in the Nation” (Runner’s World)

http://www.freedomsrun.org

#BibChat FreedomsRunBR

Scooby Doo Run Family & Pet 5k or 10k

Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Scooby-Doo Run Family & Pet Virtual 5K 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.

This virtual race really is a great value for the race entry and the charity race is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital There’s a 5k or 10k Option for the same price, so why not run the 10k?

Registration is still open-register here.

You have until October to walk/run. Don’t have a dog? That is okay, you can simply run with your friends dog :) That’s my plan.

DC Wonder Woman 10k

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to this raceas part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro , and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

When I first learned of the DC Wonder Woman 5K/10K Race Series, I thought it was actually in Washington DC, and was excited, but they were all out west. I’ve always been a huge Wonder Woman fan. Once it became virtual, I was excited to register for the Wonder Woman Swag.

The swag for this race includes a beautiful medal, 2 Wonder Woman wrist sweatbands with zipper pockets for keys or money, a sweet long-sleeved running shirt, that I’ll pretty much wear with jeans as a dress up day LOL, but I’m serious, and a reusable Wonder Woman bag. You also get a race bib, with your name printed on it. When you upload your results, you also get a finisher certificate, and your finishing time gets added.

I’m staying in N.C. for an extended visit at my brothers house, due to Covid and other issues, so its been in the triple digits with heat index. I opted to run my 10k at the park where it was shaded and I could jump in the ocean afterwards. Pre Covid, I wasn't the biggest fan of virtual races, but this year, it turns out that working towards a virtual race and challenges is exactly what I needed. It makes me run even when I don’t want to. I admit I was getting out of shape and depressed not running and working during quarantine. The virtual races helped me so much.

Registration is $40, the swag is awesome, and its just fun to be Wonder Woman for an hour or so. I’m actually going to use my swag for Halloween costume,I’m just loving the Wonder Woman gear... You can purchase extra gear on Amazon. And, you can add on the Batman virtual race as well and get a discount

#WonderWomanBr BibChat IAMWONDERWOMAN

Review: Body Helix Ultra Light Mask.

Disclaimer: I received a Body Helix Ultra Light Face Mask 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”

2020 has really been a strange year! Who would have guessed masks would be the new accessory?

Many companies are now changing their manufacturing to make masks and face coverings to comply with CDC recommendations, this mask covers everything.

The past 2 months I’ve been at my brothers in N.C. the heat and humidity is crazy! I needed to find something comfortable and breathable, since the buffs are really too much for me, for running. When BibRave teamed up with Body Helix, a sports compression-wear company, I opted in right away, as I love their other products, and was lucky enough to test their new ultra-light face mask as amore breathable option for outdoor activities, I’m not comfortable yet for indoor group exercise.

Changing the filters are really easy, and adds an extra sense of security. When changing the filters, you just have to make sure all the small holes are covered also. I have a special needs daughter and several family members that are at high risk, so we are not out in public much, but when I am, I’m always wearing a mask. I love the nose bridge too, it keeps it snug to the face and you even forget it is there. :)

I’ve worn the mask, running, hiking, walking and exploring. I have other masks and buffs that I wash after each use, but I like this one for cardio activities.

I highly recommend giving this one a try. Go to the website and check out the video and color options, they are having a great sale this weekend.

bodyhelix.com and use code BR15 for 15% off any order of $40 or more.

#BodyHelixBR #BibChat #Bibravepro

Virtual Carmel Marathon 2020

Disclaimer: I received an entry to the Virtual Carmel Marathon 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!

I actually ran my virtual marathon this week. I Will add to my post when my medal and shirt arrive.

The Carmel Marathon weekend takes place in Carmel, Indiana in April each year. Because of the pandemic, the actual race was postponed until October, while offering virtual options as well. With the virtual options opening up in April, I was given the opportunity to be a part of the Carmel Marathon weekend virtually. Now, it’s the only option.

Since I don’t run with others, it’s strange writing rave reviews sometimes, but appreciate the extra motivation to still get my solo runs in. I used to race multiple times a month. This is the longest I’ve gone without actual races, teaching group exercise and fun runs, in many years.

I did like the posts for the race and enjoyed the motivation. Maybe next year I’ll go run live. Check out their social media sites and register for the virtual race and swag 😀

#CarmelMaraBR #BibChat

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