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Happy Runniversary! 

6/30/2015

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I started running in two years ago in June, and on July 1st, 2013 I ran 5K without walking or stopping. It's fun to have a specific day to mark as my runniversary each year. And what a an incredible two years it's been! 


To celebrate,  here are some of the things I have learned over the past two years as a runner...

  1. You will never stop learning.
  2. The running community is incredible.
  3. You will be hungry.
  4. Not being able to run hurts as much as than the pain of an injury. 
  5. Speed is not the only gauge of success.
  6. Have a goal for every race, and every season. 
  7. It's okay to walk. (Just don't let anyone see you.)
  8. You will always remember your first race. 
  9. It's impossible to say no to a race if at least one running friend is running it.
  10. Just when you get the hang of road running, there is someone talking about triathlons, ultras, trail running, etc.
  11. In order to improve you will have to get used to being uncomfortable. 
  12. Long runs take a very long time. 
  13. You can never have enough running gear. 
  14. The forecast will change at least three times in the 24 hours prior to a race.
  15. When not actually running and you see a runner, you will be tempted to tell them you are a runner too. 
  16. Even if you're shy there is always something to talk about to a fellow runner. 
  17. All other life events must be planned around races.
  18. All weekend plans must be made around your long run. 
  19. You track your training runs better than your hours at work. 
  20. You don't know how you to run without some sort of tech. 
  21. You feel like you just bought your runners yet your mileage says you need new ones. 
  22. You still get just a little bit nervous before every race.
  23. The hardest part about race morning is getting your bib pinned on straight.
  24. Runfies.
  25. You love your running friends like family.
  26. With each longer distance race there will come a time you feel you've made a mistake in signing up.
  27. There will be a lot of sweat.
  28. There will be a lot of showers.
  29. Nothing tastes as good as the food consumed after a race. 
  30. The words, "You're crazy!" make you smile smugly and feel proud. 
  31. Runs are planned around the hourly forecast. 
  32. You get to try different foods and call it fuel training. 
  33. Snacks. 
  34. You will run in wind, rain, snow and ice because missing a run would be worse. 
  35. You will feel like a rebel when friends and family ask, "You are going to run in this?"
  36. Laundry.
  37. Run clothes are the dirtiest, yet laundered with the most care. 
  38. You will recognize and know the benefits of every pair of shorts, capris and leggings in your closet. 
  39. White feet in the summer. 
  40. No longer caring about wearing make up. 
  41. Not getting a pedicure for fear of what they will think of your feet.
  42. Chafing. 
  43. Never judge a run by the first or last kilometer. 
  44. Downhill races are fun.. 
  45. Hills. 
  46. How to use the markings are on a track. 
  47. You will not be the  only one who says they are the slowest runner out there. 
  48. You can actually run faster than you think. 
  49. You know the city based on training runs and race routes. 
  50. Running is about way more than just running. 


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NIKE Toronto Women's 15K

6/29/2015

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On June 14th I participated in the highly anticipated NIKE Toronto Women's 15K. I'd been nursing a couple injuries since March, so my training had been minimal in both the quality and quantity of training runs.  I decided in May that while I would still do the race, my goal would be fun, not a PB.

The day was filled with endless photo opportunities, including the race itself. After running strong the first four kilometers I knew I wouldn't be able to sustain the pace given my lack of training. I slowed down and remembered my goal of fun. I ran with, and bumped into many of my amazing running friends along the route, I chatted with a couple strangers who were struggling, I gave high-fives to kids and Island residents, and I took photos...
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Why I'm running for youth mental health

6/28/2015

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 Emotional and psychological pain is all encompassing. It's not like a physical injury. You can't point to it, bandage it, or often even explain it. It is confusing, overwhelming and distracting. It hurts. Now, imagine you are a teen, struggling with the already confusing array of social and physical challenges of growing up and fitting in. Sound like fun? Not so much.

On September 19th, 2015 I am running to support youth mental health. I am running to raise awareness and donations toward a program that helps families figure out how and where to get help. Funds donated to the RBC Run for the Kids go to Sunnybrook's Family Navigation Project which assists young people right here in the GTA. While over two million Canadian youth struggle with mental illness, only one in five get the help they need. This should, can and will change with awareness and support. Join me in making a difference.

How to help:
Register to run with me! 
Make a donation toward my goal in raising awareness and support for youth mental health.

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RBC Run for the Kids

6/24/2015

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I'm thrilled to announce that I've been selected to be a 2015 RBC Run for the Kids Ambassador!

Last year, RBC Run for the Kids attracted 7,100 participants and raised an astounding $1.9 million for an amazing cause. Over 2 million Canadian youth struggle with mental illness but only 1 in 5 get the help they need. Sunnybrook's Family Navigation Project is a non-profit service that helps young people suffering from mental health issues navigate through a complex system to find the right resources.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, this is the event for you! Featuring 5K, 7K, and 15K distances, all races are chip-timed and finishers (that raise just $100 for adults, $40 youth, $20 kids) receive a medal, tech shirt and can celebrate at the post-race party! Walkers, strollers, children and dogs are all welcome in the 5K!

Join me Saturday, September 19 at Mel Lastman Square in Toronto for a race that makes a difference!

For details go to  http://rbcrunforthekids.ca/ or send me a note! 

RBC Run for the Kids
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    Cathy V

    Running. Design.  Family. Dogs. Gardening. Food. Crochet. Canadian. 
    ​Order varies. 


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