kim.

A collection of things that help me survive my runs.

[kimmaves]

Athlinks

Disclaimer: I am promoting Athlinks 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

For 2018 BibRave has a new partnership with Athlinks 

I have been using Athlinks for a while, mainly to keep track of my race times. I know the majority of my PRs, but since road running has become more popular and races more organized it has become useful. 

Why is it really that useful?

A lot of races have start corrals based on time. Most of those time corrals require a certain time to be in an early wave. If I someone can’t remember when they ran X time, easy head to Athlinks and check out past race results. Then proceed to that race’s website to get the results and submit with your regular race registration. Boom. Corral secured. 

What is it?  Results Database - claim your results from races 10+ years ago! All of your PRs will be laid out in a nice clean easy to read format. Athlete Community - “Compete and Connect” Connect with your friends and see their upcoming races and see who you’ve raced against and either won or lost against. 

The top 36% of marathon shows me compared to the rest of my results that I have some work to do. Also, I need a new 8k PR. You can use it to look at your close rivals PR’s too... or your tinder matches - are you faster than them?

What could change? Since I’ve been using it things have definitely changed. They added rivals a while back and the layout has changed. 

Things that stand out: -It’s impossible to follow people who are private  -I can’t figure out how to add races and results anymore. It used to be super easy to add a race result post race, but now I can’t figure it out. *update I found it, but it’s difficult to find  -Overview section: right now it seems like it is everyone’s race calendar, nothing about results or my upcoming races. News about races I’ve signed up for would be good. Right now I don’t like the race countdown content. 

[kimmaves]

Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo

Disclaimer: I was recently sent a Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Dry Collar 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!

My dog, Milo is my absolute best friend. I don’t like being referred to as a pet parent or Milo’s Mom. I see him as my friend versus my child. I’ll spoil him before myself (unless I need new running shoes). 

As you can (maybe) tell, Milo is a big dog! 60 pounds of love. The collar holds up well and the material doesn’t get damaged like a fabric collar would. 

Milo has had the same collar since I got him back in 2012 and was excited to try out an new one for him. The look of a collar can change the look of a dog, so I am ALWAYS hesitant when looking. However, living in the city having the reflective strip is super important. He LOVES to cross the street and can drag me if there is something he really wants to smell. I’ve noticed the reflection of the strip from the cars headlights. Win. 

At first I didn’t think I would like the two D-Ring options and I wasn’t sure if the shape would be comfortable on him, but he hasn’t minded, plus when he’s walking - maybe it’s my imagination, maybe not he doesn’t pull as much because of the tension. 

Another advantage of having 2 D rings is one is for the tags and another for the leash. When I had my old dog, he used to go outside on his line and once my dad clipped the clip to his key ring of tags instead of the D Ring. He pulled too hard and got loose. That was fun. 

Other cool features: The WeinerLock Buckle can handle 225lbs of pull! Waterproof Stinkproof Constructed from BioThane®, a virtually indestructible material

Use Code BIBRAVE917 for 20% off your purchase. 

Also check out Jen’s review of the Stunt Puppy Stunt Runner to learn more about their products 

[kimmaves]

Chicago Spring 10K Review

Disclaimer: I received an entry for Chicago Spring Half / 10K to run 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!

Race Day Kit BibRave Tank  The North Face Better Than Naked Shorts & Stow n Go Bra Stance Run Concrete Crew (sold out so I included my other favorite race day socks) BUFF USA Half Buff

I had always wanted to run this race, but the past few years it has conflicted with something - generally Soldier Field 10Mi.

Pre Race Day

Packet Pick up was at Fleet Feet Old Town over two days, the race was on Sunday so having all day on Saturday was helpful. Participants could pick up for a friend too, but they needed to have their ID / copy of. 

Inside the packet was a shirt (I would wear this one), beet juice, body wipe, some sort of anti inflammatory cream, fliers and coupons. 

Race Day

Easy race start access to Maggie Daly Park if you're taking public transit, driving, or Uber. Unfortunately I picked the AON building to park in and they check cars and record drivers license numbers and their machine wasn't working that morning so it was super backed up. Had I been running the half I would have missed the start. The race had a partnership with SpotHero and showed options. I picked the AON building because it was the cheapest ($16)

The Race

Half Marathon Start 7am 10K Start 7:45am Corrals closed ~15 minutes before each start.

Half Marathon had assigned corrals and the 10K was self seeded with two waves. I cannot provide you any feedback on the logistics for the half marathon start since I ran the 10K.

I’m going to gripe here - self seeded races are not safe. People were walking right away and running in groups 3-5 wide at the beginning of the race. It’s not safe for anyone. Having Pace markers for a self seeded corral helps this. There were two waves and the second wave had significantly less people. I don’t know how much further after the race took off.

The race course was well marked and had course marshals. 

I believe there were 4 water stations on course. Unfortunately there were 3 volunteers at the first station (it was a hot day) and the second aid station volunteers weren’t as organized either. I am grateful that there were people to volunteer on race morning. 

One of my favorite things - FREE RACE PHOTOS!

Another improvement recommendation:  10K starts later and there is a turn around where the 10k peels off to the right for a short distance then crosses southbound running traffic to get back running north. It's not really safe at all. This could be fixed by having the 10K turn elsewhere and then the races could start at the same time 

The course had a few hills since it runs south. It wasn’t a typical full out and back which was nice. Starts in Maggie Daly and then you run to the finish which is essentially behind the start under Lower Wacker.

STRAVA DATA

Post Race

If you like race medals this one is super nice, it is a good quality and the Ferris wheel spins. 

Finishers Chute was a banana, bottle of gatorade, and water.

Post race party had various vendors, Athletico, races, a breakfast buffet, and a flower! My favorite part was getting the flower and taking it home and planting it.

Other

This isn't on the race but I ran into the 2:40 and 3hr pace groups for the half, the groups were massive and taking over both sides of the path. Again, runner safety, I asked the pacers to keep their groups tighter since the 10K was coming through. The front runners of the half marathon were coming back too and the bike marshals were doing a good job of leading them and attempting to clear people, while the front 10K runners were going by. The back pace groups and their leaders however were not doing a good job of being respectful on an open path.

[kimmaves]

Race Day Eve - Eve

Disclaimer: I received an entry for Chicago Spring Half / 10K to run 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!

So I’ve been training for this race - a 10K. I’ve always put the Chicago Spring Half or 10K on my list as, “I’d like to do” each year. This year I’m doing it! My friend is getting back into running and runs a 10K or two every year so this was a good opportunity to run it. 

While I love running, I trained really freaking hard for the Carmel Half Marathon. I PR’ed by almost 3 minutes and was ~5 seconds off my 10K race PR (I’ve bested in it training by 2 seconds)

Honestly - I should have taken May off. Let’s be real here. Signing up for a race probably wasn’t my smartest move. I haven’t been ”training” and I’ve done one speed workout (outside of The North Face Endurance Challenge Marathon Relay at ECSDC & ECSNY). I was spent after Carmel. I’m kind of unmotivated since my body hasn’t felt 100%. I’ve skipped runs and opted for the bike. I don’t have a race plan, and I’ve told my coach I’m not sure how I’m going to approach. It’s going to be a game time decision on Sunday morning. 

Here was my speed workout: 

<iframe height='405' width='590' frameborder='0' allowtransparency='true' scrolling='no' src='https://www.strava.com/activities/992407308/embed/9d4c7ec2c0024aa325de07313427cca218fe55d2'></iframe>

HOWEVER - I have had two years of injuries and I have learned to enjoy every single run. Come Sunday morning, I’ll appreciate what my body is doing, and after I cross the finish line what it did. So, post race let’s have a beer. 

[kimmaves]

10K’s are Hard

I’m signed up to run the Chicago Spring 10K  and recently raced as apart of a marathon relay at The North Face Endurance Challenge - DC.

I have signed up and ran four 10K’s. Two I raced: Chicago’s Perfect 10 in November 2013 and 2014 -2014 race holds my PR 47:10, which I have either bested or came close to in training over the past 2.5 years. Signed up for fun: Chicago Polar Dash January 2014(?) ECSDC April 2017. 

I never know how to run a 10K, it isn’t a 5K and it is not a 10miler or half marathon. I usually have gas left in the tank - how do I get right up to the red line without bonking in a short distance? Well, practice racing helps right? So why did I pick the Chicago Spring 10K? Well, I’d like a new PR. Mine is old and should easily go down in two weeks. Granted my soleus is healed up... 

How do I plan to run this race? Good Question. I will ask my coach, Matt Flaherty  on a race plan. Maybe something like 7:40′s first 2 miles, 7:30 last 2 miles and then empty the tank the final 2.2? That sounds good, right? Well I’ll see what he says. Also need to make sure that my soleus is not causing me any grief since this isn’t as important to me as the Chicago Marathon is, but running a PR is fun and rewarding.  

How this particular race could help me achieve a PR:

Flat & Out and back, along the lakefront where it is cooler and an early start time (7AM).

You can register and save $10 using BRCHI17 - Hurry because the race is 80% full!

[kimmaves]

F3 Half Marathon Review

Disclaimer: I received an entry for F^3 Lake Half 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!

My BibRave.com Review Here

Let’s start from the beginning.  This is my second time running this race and I will definitely continue to run it.

Packet Pick up started on Saturday, January 21st at Fleet Feet, Old Town. That was really convenient for me since I had to travel the 22nd-28th for work. It then moved into the suburbs and the final two days of packet pick up were at FFOT. 6 Days total, Saturday-Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. There was a will call option for $15, which compared to other races is relatively cheap. 

You received a really nice 1/4 zip as the swag. I still love my hat from 2014!

Pre Race:

Parking at Soldier Field was $19 dollars, which is pretty reasonable considering an Uber both ways would be more than that and taking public transportation would be annoying walking to and from Soldier Field in the cold. We walked from the lot to the United Club, which was amazing. 

Warm up was in the United Club, soap and water and real bathrooms. I’m weird and using port-a-potties before a race and then opening gels grosses me the F--- out. 

I did a quick warm up outside and went into the corrals. 

During the Race: 

I had a goal of, “well I’ll be happy with a 1:47″ 

The race starts at Soldier Field and makes a loop around and then heads down the lakefront path. At the start of the race there are self seeded pace corrals, going off every 2 minutes. It was mainly clear of ice, if there was a slick spot it was heavily salted and coned. 

Miles were marked and had time clocks. 

There were 4 total aid stations, which you hit twice. The placement of the third one could have been moved a smidge south. At first when I got the water cup I was confused because it was heavy and dense. Turns out it was the PERFECT cup to pinch. I didn’t spill any water on me. Win, especially on a cold day. Gatorade was also there, not sure what flavor. I don’t like Gatorade. I wish it was Nuun on course. There were also gatorade chews on the course. I didn’t get a chance to see exactly what they were.

Three different photographers were on course, all photos can be found for free at Flashframe.io

Post Race

So I’m not going to go into too much detail of my race and mile by mile. If you're curious check out my Strava Data 

I finished in 1:44:23 - 39 SECONDS off my PR! Such a great day. Results were available right away. 

Food was: Muscle Milk, WHOLE Bagel (I destroyed that thing), hummus and chips, water, banana, and maybe something else. 

I didn’t stop at all the post race vendors. I remember seeing American Cancer Society, Garden Center Services (Benefiting Charity), REM -Fit, NovaCare and a photo company that was letting you print Instagram photos on magnets, pretty cool. 

Top 5 received plaque and an Asics gift card. Age group winners received a ribbon.

After party was at Kroll's. No beer in the United Club, I assume because of cost and permitting. 

My Race day Nutrition:

Breakfast ~7:00am Ezekiel 4:9 muffin with PB Nuun

Pre Race: Nugo Bar with water 

During Race : 1 1/2 Huma Gel, white packaging and purple label. 

Clothing Choice:

Lunar Glide 8, Stance Fusion Run Socks, The North Face Winter Warm Tights, The North Face Stow n Go Bra, TNF GTD Shirt, TNF Isotherm Long sleeve (wool), BibRave Tank, Brooks Gloves, Buff Merino, and Saucony Headband.

[kimmaves]

NuGo Dark Chocolate Bars

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

I had found out about Nugo Dark bars earlier in 2016. I cannot remember exactly how, it was either at Whole Foods when I was looking at the bars or some vegan running resource. Either way, I’m glad I discovered them. When I was given the opportunity to review and try more flavors via BibRave I was excited for the opportunity. 

I initially had only had the Salted Pretzel. Which is still my favorite flavor. 

Note, it doesn’t contain pretzels, the sea salt gives it that delicious pretzel taste.

The other flavors I received were:

Top to bottom : Coconut, Mint Chocolate, Chocolate Pretzel with Sea Salt, and Chocolate Chip. I really liked them all. Coconut tasted like coconut, kind of like a Girl Scout Samoa. Mint Chocolate like a healthy thin mint cookie, I love mint chocolate and I’m glad this didn’t leave me disappointed. I think I already expressed my love for Pretzel. Chocolate Chip was also good, good balance of Chocolate without being too over powering.

On my own I bought Peanut Butter, honestly I wasn’t that impressed, I was missing the peanut butter flavor. 

How I used Nugo Dark Bars.

My stomach is pretty tolerant so I would have them before a run or a cross training workout.  Below is pre yoga snack and coconut. I’m always hungry so I need to eat something before I workout. 

I also had a Nugo Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel about an hour before the F3 Half Marathon on Saturday. (Review and link coming soon, will post when ready) Photo was taken right before I ate and pinned on my bib. No upset stomach.

I also used them as a post work out snack. The 10g of protein was a good replenisher post hard workout. Sorry for the dog hair. Thankfully I could find these at Jewel and Whole Foods in Chicago. 

My last use was as a snack or to curb my sweet tooth as you all know I have. Nugo Bar > cookies. 

These bars are gluten free and VEGAN! Most bars now are vegan, but not all area certified Vegan and these are which is awesome. 

Overall I would 100% recommend them for all the ways I used them above. I didn’t try during a long run. I don’t usually eat food during a run, maybe if I was an ultra runner I would.

You can get your own for 15% off using BibRave1 on their website 

[kimmaves]

Rudolph Ramble 5k

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Rudolph Ramble 5K race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a bibravepro​ (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I signed up for the Rudolph Ramble a while back when it was offered through BibRave. I ran it last year when it was an 8k. I wasn’t sure where my running was going to be in December, but I knew a 5K would be doable. 

The 2016 race was cancelled. Ram Racing decided at 11:38 to post about the cancellation. 

RAM also sent this email:

Good Afternoon Kim,

We know that many of you were disappointed when we made the difficult decision to cancel Sunday's Rudolph Ramble due to weather complications. While we can control most aspects of our events, Mother Nature has a mind of her own.

We are sorry we were unable to host you for the race that day but we have a special offer for you for the future and want to make sure you know that you can still take advantage of your favorite post-race goodies in the following ways: As a registered participant you may use the following code CODEHERE to receive 50% off one new registration for any 2017 RAM Racing event.  Each code has a one-time use and is valid through midnight on Sunday, January 8, 2017. Children who were registered for the Donner Dash Kids' races have a gift bag of post-race treats, finisher's medal and candy cane waiting for pick-up at the Fleet Feet Sports - Old Town location from December 16, 2016 through New Year's Eve.  Please bring the Donner Dash bib to claim your gift bag. All 5K participants are still able to enjoy a FREE Do-Rite donut and cup of Dark Matter coffee by showing their bib number at any Do-Rite Donut & Coffee location in Chicago now through Saturday, December 17th. The Rudolph Ramble was the first race we have ever had to cancel in 16 years due to weather. It was a decision that was not made lightly.

We truly appreciate your understanding that our main concern was the safety of not only you, the runners, at race time but also the volunteers and staff who were facing the kind of potentially dangerous conditions in the hours leading up to the race that had the Weather Service and Chicago's Office Of Emergency Management and Communications advising people not to go outside unless absolutely necessary.

We are also unable to offer a refund to runners despite the cancellation - as is standard in the racing industry. There are non-refundable costs associated with planning and preparing each and every race, regardless of the time of year, and those do not go away even when a race has to be cancelled.

In addition to the disappointment of not being able to stage the race, RAM is cognizant of the fact the toy drive for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital was impacted by the fact that you were unable to bring donated gifts to the race. In the spirit of the season, we have committed to purchase gifts to be delivered to Lurie before the holiday to make up for the shortfall.

Thank you for understanding the situation and best wishes for a safe and happy holiday to you and yours!

RAM Racing

It’s a pretty good email and there are plus sides to the cancellation. You get half off an upcoming race, still a free donut, kids still get their gear, and they are still collecting toys. 

Here is my honest review and feedback:

Course:

Similar to previous years, ran on the inner path which can be a mud pit depending on snow. 

The aid station set up with water and Nuun like all RAM Races. I prefer Nuun at my races over other sport drink. Also, it is a nice touch to have Nuun in a 5k the majority that I have ran only have water. I grab something 50% off the time and would 90% of the time prefer a sport drink in a 5k. I did not see which flavor advertised anywhere.

Packet pick up at Fleet Feet was easy. I was able to pick up someone else's packet. Although I am getting annoyed with RAM's corral system. I have been put into B for the last two races and they mentioned that they look at previous RAM races on my account and with a SF10 pace of 7:47 I should in theory be placed into A, I ran into the same thing with Mag Mile 5k. If I was trying to PR I would have complained. I had been sick all week with a sinus infection, so wasn't planning on PR.

Perks: Free Race Photos, Runner tracking, post race donut (GF/V options available) 

Swag isn't a driver for me to do races, however when the swag was initially announced and I had signed up, it was a pair of sweatpants. sweet! I can always use more, plus they are useful. About a month before the race they started posting this okay looking Red Beanie. Which ended up being horrible quality, and mine was already pilling out of the packaging. If I had paid for the race because of the sweatpants and not received an entry through BibRave I would have felt even more deceived and like a bait and switch.

[kimmaves]

MagMile 5k Review

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the MagMile 5K race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a bibravepro​ (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I initially signed up for the Half Marathon, but with an injury / health issues I dropped to the 5k. The good news is I am on the upswing! 

Gear : TNF Trail Trucker, BUFF USA Half Buff, BIBRAVE Tank, TNF Stow n go 2 bra, TNF GTD Shorts, LARABAR

I flew in from California after being out there for 9 days the day before the race, I got home around 9:15, I wish I could have gotten to bed sooner, but such is life I had a great time in CA. Being on west coast time really impacted my running, but it was probably a good thing because at the moment I shouldn’t be going too fast. 

I woke up probably around 5:45 took my dog out and called an Uber. I met up with BibRavePro Heather, who was able to pick up my packet. THANK YOU!

Since I was traveling I didn’t get a chance to pick up my packet. I tried to have it mailed, but the system gave me trouble and by the time I heard back packet mailing had closed. Thankfully I only needed to send Heather my confirmation email and she snagged my packet. 

It was also kind of a pain to drop to the 5k, but I wonder if it was because I received my race at no charge and when you drop you receive money back. (first time for a race! Usually you have to pay) With a quick email my distance was changed in no time. 

The race started and finished in Grant Park. Super simple and easy. There were 4 corrals all starting about 2 minutes apart. I didn’t see anyone in the 5K in Corral A. One woman was in B with me and she’s consistently one of the top females so I wonder why this had happened. If I had been racing or super competitive I may have snuck under the rope.

There were pacers at :30 starting at 7:30 / mi, looked like two people per pace from CES. 

The 5K course ran along the Magnificent Mile. It was so great to run a different part of the city for a race. There was slight elevation with the roads, nothing major but added a variation for the race course. The course was easy to follow, the half and 5K split had a volunteer, they were only pointing Half marathoners in their direction, I looked at the map prior and noticed where the split was, depending if I was in the zone or not I  could have missed it since you had to turn on the 5k course to see the 5k sign. I think there was one aid station during the 5k. I didn’t use it or look for it, but usually there is someone yelling water ahead. 

Post race finishers received a bag of food from Corner Bakery. Sandwich, chips, mayo, Eli’s Cheesecake and maybe something else. Nothing I could eat so I gave it away. The race shirt was super nice, long sleeve, patterned and a fun color pink. The race bag also included a Luna Bar and first selection of participants received a chocolate bar. I told Heather to take mine so I assume she did :) 

The post race village had a ton of interactive activities. Athletico stretching, The North Face - Chicago store had custom water bottles, ATT, Columbia, Southwest, Luna Bar had a photo booth, American Cancer Society and I was told there were live animals, but I couldn’t find them. I also couldn’t find the beer tent. I didn’t want beer at like 7:40am, but if I did, I couldn’t find it. 

Gear check was easy. 

The only other gripe I have is the participant guide. I breezed through it, but missed the bike docking station for runners. Something like that should have a bigger call out. 

If you love photos, you get free race photos!

Overall it was great to see friends. I would recommend this race to anyone. It was especially a great race for first timers. It also fit well into cut back week for anyone running a marathon on 10/9.

[kimmaves]

Go Ultima!

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

First off: Go to their website, select a flavor and use code BIBRAVE2016, you’ll save 35% and get free shipping. 

I received my neatly package order from Ultima on July 3rd. It didn’t take long for me to finish it. Not only does it taste good, it is good for you too.

I received a 30 serving lemonade canister and a 20ct stick box of raspberry. I had the raspberry right away. I was shocked by the color, and wasn’t sure if it would taste fake, it definitely didn’t. 

The canister comes with a mini scooper and the sticks are easy to tear.

Electrolytes are important to endurance athletes as well as every day use. Without being too science-y electrolytes help water pass through the walls of the cells that make up your body. 

Ultima doesn't only taste amazing, it has some great benefits. Each serving will provide you with Vitamins A & C, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Zinc, Potassium and more.

Other flavors include: Grape, Cherry Pomegranate, and Orange. 

How I used it: 

Ultima for me was a post workout or daily use water enhancer. I tried it a few times before my workout, but felt the benefits of using it after. I felt less thirsty post workout and hydrated, especially since the Chicago heat took over in July.  

I added the powder first, mixed it up and stuck in in the freezer for however long I felt like it (i.e. when I remembered I had a glass in the freezer). I never dealt with extra powder. I think the cold and letting it sit helped it to dissolve. 

I had 8+ tubes of Blood drawn (not sure how many I passed out) a few weeks back. I was feeling pretty awful. I had probably 3-4 servings of Ultima and I felt a lot better as the day went on. I was able to get some good nutrients and hydration when eating just wasn’t an option for me that morning/ afternoon. 

Size of sticks shown above. 

Overall, I would recommend Ultima to anyone, they even have a TODDLER formula. It tastes great, the person who runs their Twitter rocks, and the cost is totally reasonable. (BIBRAVE2016 = 35%off!)

You can find it at running and cycling speciality stores. It can also be found at Whole Foods. 

One thing to note, when I placed my order for a 90 serving canister of grape I paid via paypal, the systems weren’t talking to each other thus, leaving me to wait a week and realizing I hadn’t received my order (or tracking yet). The issue was quickly resolved, great service. Also, I’m not a fan of sticks as far as packaging, too much waste, I like the canisters and I’m excited to try more flavors. 

Which flavor do you want to try?

[kimmaves]

Running in Humboldt Park

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Humboldt Park 5K race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a bibravepro​ (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

Humboldt Park often gets a bad rap. I didn’t start running in Humboldt until 2015, 2 years after I moved into my apartment less than a mile away. I believed those stigmas until I ran there. 

Well thankfully, races are becoming more popular in Humboldt Park, which is great for the community. 

Coming up on August 14th is the Humboldt Park 5k. 

Not only is it a 5K, there are a other events lined up for race day. Yoga and a Community Wellness Fair will make this race stand out when there are so many races every weekend in Chicago. 

Here are 5 reasons why you should pick the Humboldt Park 5K;

1. You won’t be running on the lakefront for this race. The race course runs in a M shape. It will make for seeing family and friends easier, plus you get to see a new park and part of the city most people west of Ashland have never been to. 

2. Easy Access. Hop on the 606 via your bike or use HP5K as part of your training run and run there. You’ll want to exit at California. There are also bike lanes on Division, California, Augusta, and Kedzie. Bikers can rent Divvys or bring their own. 

3. The Food! Runners can hit up places like Flying Saucer, CC Ferns, Spinning J Bakery and Soda Shop, and Bullhead Catina. All within walking distance of the start. Make sure to bring cash if you are going to Flying Saucer or Bullhead Catina.

4. it is a part of the RAM Racing family. They have other races such as Mag Mile Half & 5K, Soldier Field 10 (a favorite of mine), and Big Foot Tri

5. You can easily spend all day in Humboldt Park. It is gorgeous and a true hidden gem. Plus the beach will be open!

Make sure to use BibRaveHP for a free head wrap 

Pond View

Cute bridge on the western half of the park 

East entrance to the park on Division

Pond in the middle of the park on the east side. There are plenty of benches and even a dock for fishing.

Other Race Perks:

Free Photos, like this really unattractive photo of me below. On Course Nuun! Kids 1 Mile fun run!

I cannot remember the name of this part of the park. It is on the south side, west of Humboldt Blvd, but it’s pretty

[kimmaves]

Generation UCAN

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

I had first used Gen UCAN around this time last year. I had read an article on Jonah, the boy who inspired the product.  (note that is not the same article, since it was last year, I have no idea what it was) It detailed his situation and how UCAN helped him. I asked a friend who knows a lot of running products if she ever tried it. She is a 3:03 marathoner and let me know she has it before a marathon and doesn’t have a gel until mile 20-22. That left me incredibly intrigued. 

Less gels? I’m in (you can even make your own gels out of them with less water)

I had an orange packet and 2 packets of Cran Raz in my pantry prior to the shipment. 

We received Chocolate, Lemon, Orange, and Cran Raz. Also included was a shaker bottle. (THANK YOU!) It is nice to have an extra since I use my other one after my run to make my protein. Chocolate in the bottle. 

This portion is direct from the website:

“Generation UCAN, powered by SuperStarch, stabilizes blood sugar and minimizes insulin response, delivering several scientifically validated benefits:

Optimized performance with steady energy when you need it, without the spike and crash of sugar and maltodextrin based products. Sustained energy with time-released delivery of glucose, keeping you above baseline longer. Enhanced fat burn allowing you to improve body composition as you burn fat for fuel during your workout and keep burning fat while you recover due to suppressed insulin response. Speedier recovery as your body is able to use protein to repair and restore your muscles rather than for energy, since blood sugar is stable. No gastric distress, because SuperStarch is a large molecule that passes through the stomach quickly and is digested slowly in the intestines.”

The bolded points are enough to intrigue any runner. I was psyched to give it a try. I first had a Blueberry Pom last year during my injury on a 2+ hour gym day. I had the energy to bike and swim without getting hungry or fatigued during the day. I agree with them all for the most part.

However, I do want to mention a few cons before I talk about how great it is. I’d prefer to end on a positive note. 

I have a pretty tolerant stomach. Gels for the most part agree with me, I can deal with the taste and consistencies.

I’ve tried and ran with Orange, lemonade, Cran Raz, and Blueberry Pom. Unfortunately, I could not get the chocolate down. I had a couple of sips and it reminded me of flat dark soda. (I have heard if you mix with coffee or almond milk it tastes great!!!) Orange and Lemonade tasted okay. They surprisingly didn’t agree with me. I felt like losing my insides via my mouth my entire run with them, and one was a speed workout. Thankfully, Erin mentioned that Lemonade was her favorite. In general I don’t like orange or lemonade flavored things. Those are my only real complaints. I love Cran Raz and Blueberry Pom as they taste great and really agree with me.

I also found out that the chocolate flavor is VEGAN! Awesome!

I thought the packaging was super pretty and inspiring. 

I believe my first run I used UCan on I went 12 miles. No gels, I had some water but not a huge need. I felt great after. It was nice not to have to carry and eat a gel on the run. 

I also remember having it on this run, mainly because it looked kind of weird to drink on the bus on my way to NRC. I was so nervous that day. I woke up and wasn’t able to fuel as normal since it would take me a while to get down there and I knew I couldn’t have my UCAN 1 hour + before my run. As you can see, that run went very well for me. I also did not have a single gel on that run. I’m getting closer to that two hour mark where I can go without a gel during a run. Success. Now it is just finding which gels, or making a UCAN gel to go with it.

I was able to also try it on few runs recently. They weren’t particularly hot days, I’m curious as to how I would feel with it on a hot day. I also haven’t been able to try it during a long run and grabbing electrolyte drink during the run mixing with the UCAN in my stomach.

I try to have it anywhere from 20-35 minutes pre run and use it for longer runs 10+ or speed.

I haven’t had the cinnamon, it sounds interesting. Same for the plain. 

I do love the taste of the UCAN Hydrate. I was chatting with the reps at the Houston Marathon Expo and they were so informative about the product. They did let me know that the colder the better for super starch and 8-12 oz is the sweet spot. I lean to more of the 12+ oz option. That information helped. 

UCAN can be purchased in tubs or packets. I would buy a tub of Cran Raz, less waste and probably more cost effective. Bars, protein, and plain super starch also exist.   

I can’t wait to stock up for marathon training! 

You can use code BIBRAVE to save 15% and get some flavors for yourself!

[kimmaves]

an update of some sorts

Hello! I’m not sure if anyone really follows my blog [hello!!!] 

Here is a quick update for those following along. 

I will not be running the Toledo marathon on 4/24. Too many glute/ITB issues that put a major damper on my long runs and training. As a result I have been seeing a Chiropractor for more intense ART/Grastons/ Needling. Not to say what I was doing wasn’t working, I am just a tough case and needed something more intense. 

I will be running Chicago 10/9. I have so much pent up emotion that I can hopefully channel and unleash on race day in a positive way. I am looking at working with a running coach, I have some options I’ve been considering. There are so many options, I would like to hopefully work with someone I can meet in person a few times. Most important is someone who has my goals in mind and understands that I don’t want to do 85mpw and I enjoy cross training. So along with getting stronger I’ll be looking into some. 

Next up is Soldier Field 10mi, one of my favorite races. I have a time goal, but finishing healthy and possibly a PR would be great! 

[kimmaves]

Back On My Feet Mardi Gras Chaser 10K

Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Back on My Feet Mardi Gras Chaser 10k race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a bibravepro​  (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

I decided to do the 10K as a part of my long run, hoping to add some speedy miles in a training cycle that has been relatively easy running. 

Registration was super easy and race day communication was frequent and detailed. About three weeks before the race packet pick up was changed and communication to the participants was immediate. 

You were able to pick up your Bib, mask, and Long sleeve tech tee (non-gender specific) at Fleet Feet Lincoln Square and on race day. I went to Fleet feet for mine since I knew I was going to need to do my warm up pre race and didn’t want to risk not getting my bib. I didn’t wear my mask because I had sunglasses on. 

Race day : 

It was very warm for February in Chicago. 52ish degrees and sunny. Little wind. The race started and ended at Montrose Harbor. Parking was free and easy. I ended up racing in my BibRave Tank, UV Half Buff, XX2i Sunglasses, tights, and Zoom Elite 8′s. I had the Buff on my head as a headband but it was way too hot. 

Race was sent off in waves 10K at 10 and 5K at 10:15. There were also two waves of the 10K. Race is an out and back went south along the path with a turn around at Fullerton. Miles were marked ( I didn’t see mile marker 4) 

There were three total aid stations. The first one had water on one side and gatorade on the other side of the path. It is a little congested and cross over to grab water isn’t the best idea, so I withheld. The volunteers were great at holding off traffic and cheering. I loved also hearing the BOMF runners talking to a friend or mentor saying they wanted to run well in the race. My race time was 48:28 my watch read 6miles. My complaint with the water stops is the last one seem under prepared and weren’t paying attention to runners when I passed. 

Post Race :

This race has all the post race food. Bagels, snacks from Bimbo Bakeries, Clif Bars, Gatorade, water, bananas, and apples. I only grabbed the Clif Bars and fruit because of my diet.

Starbucks was providing coffee to runners before (and after?) the race. Ragnar, Fleet Feet, Access PT were also on site. Thankfully Access was stretching people out post race. 

The party was at Fat Cat where you could get a free drink ticket. I was unable to attend due to time constraints, but I bet it was a lot of fun!

Results were up that day. I am still waiting for them to post pictures. Unfortunately I don’t have a lot of them right now. 

I would recommend this race to anyone looking for something to race in the winter. 

[bibravepro]

BibRave Pro 2016 Application!

APPLY HERE!

Our 2016 BibRave Pro Application is now open! We’re looking for socially-savvy individuals who LOVE to race! Are you a wiz on social media, who blogs about their races, and loves to test the newest running products? We want you! Apply to be a BibRave Pro, and we’ll notify you this month if you’ve been selected to join our stellar group. See here for more info on BibRave Pro perks, duties, or FAQ. Feel free to email [email protected] with any questions!

[kimmaves]

I ordered, "Building Your Running Body" off of Amazon and it was wrapped in a plastic bag with this sticker on it. It totally made my day. Next races are @bomfchicago 10K and @gcm_toledo 26.2.

[kimmaves]

2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights

Disclaimer: I received a free pair of 2XU Hyoptik Thermal Compression Tights  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

There is no secret that I have enjoyed products from 2XU. Cue Socks and Elite MCS Run tights.  Now I have a pair of the below pictured Hyoptik Tights. 

These as pictured are Thermal reflective running tights. I wore them quite a few times during this weird winder. 

The compression is not the stamping that you find on the MCS Run tights, these tights are more of a graduated overall compression. I do not find them to be too tight and too (I’m going to make up a word here) compressy. I was expecting them to have more of a compression feeling, but I like the way they fit and feel on. 

Post winter run (way overdressed) with good friend, Shawna. The tights are a full length thermal tight. When I opened up the box I was expecting a pair of tights similar to another pair I own that has a fleece like lining (Pair A) or to have more of a thermal waffle texture found inside a base layer top for skiing. They are just smooth and flat on the inside. I definitely questioned right away how thermal they would be. I find these to not be as warm as Pair A. I typically wear Pair A on windy days or days under around 30 degrees. I find these to be very similar to Pair B. Pair B I wear for cold days when it’s too cold for capris, but not cold enough for Pair A. So typically 30-45 degrees, wind depending. When I wore them in the photo above I was definitely way too hot, but it was an unseasonably warm December day in Chicago. While I am disappointed these are not more like Pair A, I still really like them for cold weather running.

 They were perfect for the day in the photo below: (Winter in Wisconsin) 

I wore them on this run- snowy and cold. Perfect to pair with a wool long sleeve, merino buff, and a headband. 

This was the bottom half of my outfit. (yes, I realize these are recycled photos, but I was testing two products at the same time. They happened to work well together.) The ankles on these are also anti-chafe friendly. My ankles bleed and get so dry in the winter. Thankfully these tights do not agitate them. 

As far as reflectivity, it is so important if you run at night to be seen. Fortunately with my new job I’ve been working out in the morning and night time runs are few and far between. These tights have reflectivity in the right spots. Side of the thighs and bottom of the left calf. It might be cool if they had something on the right calf for reflection, dots? lines? x’s? If they are going to be all over reflectivity. Still, they are great for being seen. 

Overall, I would recommend these tights. They retail for $109.95. Right now the women’s full length are sold out, but fellow pro, Jeremy let me know that the men’s were just restocked and the women’s should be soon too. It also looks like they lowered prices on their items. When I wrote my post Christmas guide they were listed at $139.95, automatic $30 savings. Awesome! That definitely makes these more affordable and will encourage more people to purchase them.