My Run In Pictures

I ran last week’s Love the Run You’re With 5k in my new Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket.  While not a “running jacket” per se, I was pleased with the performance and would definitely recommend…especially since Patagonia is now running a 50% off sale on all Fall 2011 gear.

I’ll start by saying that the morning was quite cold: about 25 degrees with gusty winds.  Patagonia bills the Micro Puff Jacket as a “water-resistant, windproof polyester shell with super warm, highly compressible PrimaLoft® One polyester insulation”, but I have to admit I was skeptical.   The jacket is incredibly lightweight and super packable, so it was hard to imagine that it would offer the warmth and wind protection I needed. 

I was pleasantly surprised.  The Micro Puff was warm and provided more than adequate protection against the wind.  Though highly breathable, I was most comfortable during the first 2 miles of the race (I unzipped the collar slightly as I was sprinting to the finish line).  The jacket includes 2 outer pockets and an inner compartment perfect for an iPhone or credit card/ID.     

My verdict: the Micro Puff is an excellent 3-season jacket. It’s light enough for moderate activity on cool spring/fall mornings, but offers enough warmth and wind protection to withstand tough winter runs.  Plus at $89.50 (that’s 50% off the normal price), it’s a super deal!   Happy Running!

Once again, Pacers Running shows why it is the local force in race planning and management.  Despite a touch of inclement weather and freezing cold temperatures, today’s race went off without a hitch!  The course was cleared of snow and ice, and was well salted before the gun (which, other race organizers should note: went off on time!). 

Lining up for the Start!

This is my second year racing this “down and back” course, so I knew what to expect:  a downhill sloping first half, followed by a pretty tedious uphill second half…with a fast flat sprint to the finish.  I noticed a number of runners who didn’t anticipate the challenge of the long hill between miles 2-3, and ended up walking or stopping briefly to catch a breath.  This course was definitely no joke! 

If you’re looking for results, click here.  I’ve also heard that my favorite local race photographer, SWIM/BIKE/RUN Photography was out snapping shots.  Can’t wait to see them!

I think that’s a “Yes”

Love the Run You’re With is a Valentine’s Day-themed race, so it was no surprise that there was not one, but TWO engagements at the finish line.   Runners getting hitched!  How adorable!

Speaking of relationships, my husband and I celebrated 10 years of being together with this fun 5k.  A super way to commemorate the beginning of a great team!

And one more thing:  I have a ton of race shirts, so it was kinda nice to get something new in the race swag bag:  comfy, embroidered, fleece blankies.  My own little twin monkies got a kick out of race mascots!