Don't Miss Out on This Race!

Disclaimer:  I received a race entry to Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

The Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon is just three weeks away.  It's my first half marathon of 2018 and my 12th overall.  This race holds a special place in my heart because it's run in La Crosse, WI; my hometown.   I know the course well, and it's nostalgic for me to run by some of the most beautiful parts of my town.

If you are looking for a very well run race, with a great post-race celebration and net downhill course, this is your race.  But,  just in case you need a bit more convincing, here's some fun facts about the race!

The race starts at the top!  The first two miles are straight downhill.  You are sure to have your fastest miles at the start.  Don't worry, your quads won't be too burnt out by the time you're done.  You will have gorgeous views of the entire city and if you look into the distance you'll see the iconic Missisippi River Bridge.  That bridge is your finish line! 

Riverside Park is where your race ends.  It doesn't get much more beautiful than running up the Mississippi River to your finish line.  Plus, the post race food does NOT disappoint.  In true Wisconsin fashion, you'll have beer from the local Pearl Street Brewery and a brat!  YUM.    There is plenty of wide open space to stretch and rest after your race and fun bounce houses for the kids too; make sure to bring your family with you!

Along the course, you'll also have plenty to look forward to.  The water stops are plentiful and are all themed.  You can vote for your favorites at the end of the race.  My absolute favorite is the Green Island Ice Arena water stop at Mile 11.  Just when you don't think you can run anymore, they are ready with a gigantic pile of freshly made snow.  Feel free to throw a snowball or just jump right in like I did! 

If you like race bling, and who doesn't, you'll be impressed with this race!  Each year, they incorporate the iconic blue bridge.  It bridges the gap between Wisconsin and Minnesota and has really made La Crosse famous!  It's nice to know that we're not just famous for the worlds biggest SIX PACK.  Although, the six-pack is a sight to see, so if you want a short walk from the race finish, be sure to check it out.  

Here are the medals that I have from this race!

And... just because I think it's a great talking point; here's the World's Largest Six-Pack!

So, HURRY!!  You have three weeks to register.  I can't WAIT to see you there! Make sure to use code "BIBRAVE18" for 10% OFF your registration!

Bringing home Medal #3 - The Festival Foods Granddad Half Marathon!

Disclaimer:  I received a race entry to Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave 

to review, find and write race reviews.

WOW!  It seems like it's been forever since I last raced.  And, in actuality - it's been almost 6 months!  To me that seems crazy and up until a few weeks ago, I didn't have anything on my 2018 race calendar.  To be honest, part of me didn't care all that much.  The other part, craved the finish line.  

My last huge race was Grandma's Marathon in June.  This was my redemption race; my 2nd marathon.  Same race.  Same course.  My finish resulted in a 23 minute PR and I was over-the-moon!  But, then came the runner crash.  The elation of not having to train with countless miles and hours on the road - the ability to just enjoy my running with no goal in mind.  

Life got super busy. I took on a new business opportunity that has taken my focus away from ONLY running and focusing on other areas of my health and fitness.   But, to my core, I am a runner.  I love it.  I crave it. 

Which brings me to the Spring racing season.  I went from no races on the calendar to three within only three weeks!  Normally, that would be too much but I start with a 15K in mid-April at the Allstate Hot Chocolate 15K.   I will then be in New York on a getaway with my sister and my mom and I absolutely CANNOT, I say that in big letters, miss out on an opportunity to run a 10K race through Central Park.  It's a no-brainer right?  

I will end with my hometown race.  The Festival Foods Granddad Half Marathon.  I am SO excited for this opportunity.  This race takes place in La Crosse, WI and touches on so may nice qualities about my little town.  The race starts on the beautiful bluff that overlooks the entire city. It then meanders 1 1/2 miles down the bluff, through residential streets with the finish along the river just past the iconic blue bridges! 

The post-race celebration will be sure to include beer and bratwurst and there is always activities for the kids too!  If you'd like to check out my last race review check it out here.

The medals are amazing and I'm very excited to add a third to my collection! 

I have been really focusing on my strength training over the last 6 months and I have definitely noticed a difference in my speed.  My comfortable runs are now in the 8:50's so I hope to push myself for this race and PR this course.  My best time for this race was a 1:59:00.  My half marathon PR is 1:54:45 - I think I can do it!  

If you want to join me, reach out!  I will have a discount code SOON for you at registration!