tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85987960902949383592012-01-19T08:29:36.724-08:0050 Marathons in 50 States by Boston 2011 (while training for 2011 Western States 100!)Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.comBlogger3251100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-38562081719402992512011-05-03T06:31:00.000-07:002011-05-03T06:33:54.247-07:00

As you know this past weekend was my 1st marathon after Boston... and subsequently my 2nd. Going into Boston, my ankle developed this odd pain right on the inside on the bone. Of course it was made worse by running Boston but it's not like I was going to give THAT up (obvi). I ended up taking a week and a half off from running (the longest I've done in over 2 years) to rehab the old ankle. The

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-50492692762880242532011-04-27T08:36:00.000-07:002011-04-27T08:40:16.237-07:00

It's been a little over a week since the Boston Marathon and the completion of the 50-state marathon challenge goal. I know what you're thinking... I said I'd continue my blog and I haven't written in a week. Well don't worry- I'm still blogging I just haven't been running. For some reason the more running I'm doing the more I like to write about running. Unfortunately my ankle was a little wonky

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-15334007682613727672011-04-20T17:31:00.000-07:002011-04-20T17:31:35.368-07:00

Monday I ran the Boston Marathon and completed my quest to run 50 marathons in 50 states!!! It took about 2 years and 3 months to hit all the states (plus a few extra just for fun). The past 2 years have revolved so much around running, planning, traveling, etc just to get me to the finish of the Boston Marathon. I'm so excited to have finally gotten there.  How did it go? I ran a 3:34. Not

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-34913858890470342942011-04-15T08:28:00.000-07:002011-04-15T08:28:54.568-07:00

My usual "RUNdown" gives a summary of the race- course, support, field, updates and news, etc. In this case... I'm not sure there is anything I can tell you about Boston that you don't already know. So I'm going to do a RUNdown of what's going on specifically at Steph's 50 marathon challenge!  Inspiration Points...Marathon #59... and STATE #50!!!!1. 50th State! Folks, this is what we've been

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-14256455124678974552011-04-13T05:09:00.000-07:002011-04-13T05:09:01.117-07:00

T-5 days til Boston! If you're the "tapering type" and not the "addicted to marathon running so I don't believe in tapering" you've already started to decrease mileage. You all know me... I normally think of a cross training day after my 2 long runs as a "taper" for the next weeks marathon. However, I've been good lately. I took a drop down LR last weekend and I've decreased my mileage slightly

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-76942791708550596632011-04-11T05:58:00.000-07:002011-04-11T05:58:13.740-07:00

I started this blog 2 years and 2 months ago as a means to stay true to my goal of 50 marathons in 50 states by Boston 2011. Since then you have all followed as I've completed 53 marathons and ultras in 49 states & D.C and (initially) struggled to make a BQ prior to Boston registration. With the 5 marathons prior to 2009 that is a total 58 marathons! 1 Week from right now I'll be on the bus to

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-47090858081593622522011-04-01T19:26:00.000-07:002011-04-01T19:26:57.656-07:00

Last we left off fellow Maniac, Dave, and I were in 1st class flying to NM from DC on our Patriotic Double Marathon weekend! We didn't get into El Paso until after 9 and we didn't get to the hotel until after 10:30 (12:30 EST). Considering we were up at 5am I was pretty spent! I fell asleep as soon as I laid down. Traveling cross country while trying to recoup between races is not an easy task.

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-66384942738490852292011-03-30T08:49:00.000-07:002011-03-30T08:49:41.751-07:00

Coach Bob is on his Spring Break but managed to roll out of bed at almost 11 to send out his tips for the week. We're fast approaching Boston so Bob was kind enough to give us tips for this last hard training week before we begin TAPERING! Thanks Coach Bob!!!-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------19 DAYS!  Wow!  Doesn't seem possible.  You are only 19

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-90588952000041300522011-03-30T05:27:00.000-07:002011-03-30T05:27:41.617-07:00

Wow, seriously? 16 weeks already? Well isn't that a trip. I guess it would be more prudent to start the countDOWN to Western States. I haven't been because... well... it scares me. Ready or not it's coming up in... *13 Weeks!* Is anybody else fearful for my life besides me? Anybody? Anybody? Ok good well at least somebody has faith in me! This weekend I jumped pretty hard back into WS training

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-22485359016715225112011-03-28T09:42:00.000-07:002011-03-28T09:42:15.417-07:00

Our cross-country double marathon challenge is complete and pretty darned successful! This is going to be a couple of posts long so I'm summing it up... How'd it Go? (Spoiler Alert... please proceed below the next section if you don't want to know how the movie ends!) The first marathon was the National Marathon in D.C. It went off as predicted with a 3:42 finish. I felt like I hadn't pushed

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-53695297180915818932011-03-25T19:23:00.000-07:002011-03-25T19:23:29.589-07:00

I landed in D.C. today to start my whirlwind marathon weekend. I got in about mid day, met up with my friend Brian, my parents, and 2 other marathon maniacs-- Dave and Brent. Before we set off I got an action shot-- I'm ready to take names this weekend! (note: this gun is NOT loaded... nobody is that crazy to give me a loaded gun). We went to the National Marathon Expo (nothing too exciting) then

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-38954267024069051452011-03-25T18:53:00.000-07:002011-03-25T18:53:06.760-07:00

Inspiration Points...Marathon #56 and 57!, New "state": DC!1. Checking off the District! I've already done NM but this is my first official D.C. marathon since the 50-stater club counts the Marine Corp Marathon as Virginia. 2. Double Fun! ... It's another double marathon weekend! I haven't had one of these in a while and this is definitely going to be my toughest by far with a very hard climb at

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-3676357601176800182011-03-23T04:37:00.000-07:002011-03-23T08:07:36.804-07:00

Here is the latest from Coach Bob at the Coach's Corner! Boston in less than 4 weeks away. I hope you're all training smart and mentally preparing yourselves for your race. Use Coach Bob's tips below to visualize a successful race. YOU CAN DO IT! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Okay, this week Steph asked me to do some tips on how to determine your

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-757978328491547682011-03-22T09:58:00.000-07:002011-03-23T08:06:37.001-07:00

Yesterday was a fun post, so I thought today we would get a little more serious.... seriously high! Western States 100 is QUICKLY approaching! With elevation starting at over 6,000 feet, peaking out at 8,720 feet and over 18,000 feet of climb through the course, you're "at altitude" for a good amount of the race.  There are a lot of obstacles that can worry any runner going into WS100--

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-5710754028880890802011-03-21T09:45:00.000-07:002011-03-21T09:45:19.820-07:00

This weekend was the "Heart Mini Marathon" in Cincinnati. It was also my 26th Bday. But you should know marathoners don't celebrate just "26" without adding that ".2" so my amazing friends had the above cake made for me and added 26.2 candles! The basketball references are due to march madness and our cheering on UK this weekend! "Jorts" is for Josh Harrellson-- yes, I have a crush on a (

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-53880282158228301712011-03-16T04:41:00.000-07:002011-03-23T08:07:51.136-07:00

We're back with more Boston Marathon tips from Coach Bob. If you missed last week post (here) I started a Coach's Corner for Bob to pass on his lesson for the weeks leading up to Boston. Last weeks post was on getting a speedier Boston time with just a few weeks of training left. Last weeks post wasn't just Boston related-- feel free to use those tips coming up on any goal marathon you have. This

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-79874920264445424202011-03-14T06:24:00.000-07:002011-03-14T06:24:26.257-07:00

This weekend was an OFF weekend of training for me. Was this planned? Ummm sort of... let's start from the beginning.  I'm always surprised to hear that some of you don't know this, but... Cincinnati is actually at the southern tip of OH. Being on the border to KY, we have a lot of those Kentucky ruffians pushing their way in. Six of these said ruffians are my friends. They all went to UK for

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-70718361756596806472011-03-10T05:16:00.000-08:002011-03-10T05:16:40.144-08:00

I never got around to posting my WS training from last week. The first thing you'll notice is that it's only a 6 day schedule. I had been running a Tues-Mon week so I could get my long runs in on Sunday and Monday (due to Sunday marathons) but this past weekend I was actually home and did purely training runs. So I started on Tuesday (the day after last weeks long run) and ended on Sunday. Make

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-54383102068456564242011-03-09T13:37:00.000-08:002011-03-23T08:08:12.739-07:00

The Boston Marathon is only about 5.5 weeks out-- are you pumped? I know I am! You have your training in... you've logged your miles... maybe you've even done a practice race or (in my case) about 15-20 practice races. But, c'mon now, this is BOSTON! One of the fastest marathons out there. Is it possible to shed a few extra minutes this late in the game? Of course it is! I talked to Coach Bob and

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-20153150545379512602011-03-07T09:46:00.000-08:002011-03-07T09:46:57.553-08:00

First, Arctic Ease has a contest for entries into the sold out Dick's Sporting Good Pittsburgh Half marathon. Daily winner will get an entry and prize pack. The GRAND PRIZE winner will get air fare and hotel!!! For more, go to their contest page on FB here.  If you want to be the first to hear more about awesome contests like the one above *like* my page on facebook... I'll be posting notes on

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-10831768175186393022011-03-04T09:38:00.000-08:002011-03-04T09:38:03.111-08:00

FUN FOTO FRIDAY!  I made an album of the few-- but great!-- running legends I've had the opportunity to meet over the past few years. The catch? You have to go to my facebook "fan" page to see them. This includes everybody from Maniac legend Dave Mari up to Marathon god Dean Karnazes! If you look to the upper right corner of my blog, you'll notice that I've added a social media link. Feel free to

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-20294658943487314282011-03-03T19:19:00.000-08:002011-03-03T19:20:32.631-08:00

Once Upon a Time....There was a princess that went on a quest to run ALL the way through a magic kingdom in a 13.1 mile race. Having completed this epic quest, the princess-- being a little obsessive-- decided that she had not done enough and would go back through the course. On the way back she cheered on many other princesses that were enjoying themselves along their own quests. Most runners

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-61314721427289111312011-03-01T10:53:00.000-08:002011-03-01T10:55:48.997-08:00

"Fly Tink Fly!" Definitely one of the best cheers I heard at the Disney Princess Half Marathon this weekend! How was it? Magical! So magical, in fact, I did it twice! Ok, not exactly twice but I did an extra 11 miles so I could get my ultra training in for the day. I did 3 before the race, then double backed 4 miles, found my friends- Dave, Juli, and Robyn and ran the last 4 in with them... of

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-65742817124283207692011-02-25T17:21:00.000-08:002011-02-25T17:21:57.768-08:00

No Cinderella in Blue..Sleeping beauty, keep your pinkIf I'm going to be a princess...It's gonna be Tink!!!! For the Disney Princess half marathon I'll be running dressed as Tinker Bell!!! Why Tink? She's little and feisty! I leave in the morning to head to the most magical place in the universe-- Disney World! I couldn't find an adult tinker bell costume so I found a little girls dress and

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-28755596911054426312011-02-24T19:07:00.000-08:002011-02-24T19:07:08.575-08:00

... because clearly I don't have enough!!! My 2 main goals right now are to 1) finish up my 50 states (1 to go!) and train hard for Western States 100 in June. Due to training/mileage requirements and my inability to say "no" to people when they ask me if I want to run a race-or go anywhere for that matter- I've added a few challenges to keep it fun! From next weekend going forward my training

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-38305267734554479472011-02-24T18:36:00.000-08:002011-03-23T08:08:50.904-07:00

Tag line:  "A great vacation with a 26.2 mile interruption" Ratings...Maui Oceanfront Marathon ~ January 23, 2011Maui, HI ~ Wailea to Old Lahaina Town.Type: 100% RoadYear Running: 3rdRegistration Fee: $90-$120Charity Race? Yes! All of the charities contribute by volunteering on the course aid stations. Runners:  281... Females: 120Available Races: Marathon, Half-Marathon, 15k, 5k Average Finish

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-50275896456867096892011-02-22T14:53:00.000-08:002011-02-22T14:53:30.408-08:00

Tag line:  "150 Laps with Family!!!" Note: Sorry it took awhile to get this one out... I was waiting on the customized shirt they send us a few weeks after the race!  Ratings...Zoom! Yah! Yah! Indoor Marathon ~ January 9, 2011Northfield, MN~ St. Olaf College Type: Indoor suspended track Year Running: 6th Registration Fee: $65 Charity Race? N/A Runners:  39 Finishers ... 10 Females Available Races

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-40288548823040828812011-02-20T16:29:00.000-08:002011-02-20T16:29:05.994-08:00

Maniacs freezing before the HMRRC Winter Marthon Today I proved that you are only as strong as your weakest body part as I took my first DNF at the race today. Apparently my weakest body part are my fingers! Don't worry... once they stop burning (in 2 or 3 days) I'll be giving them a stern lecture and a hardy workout. Further, I have proven that I am, in fact, not a robot. But don't worry Mel,

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-19048515437453804002011-02-19T15:13:00.000-08:002011-02-19T15:13:32.463-08:00

As I mentioned in a recent post, I've been talking to a great company about working together. This company is Arctic Ease. I've mentioned this product before, but to sum it up they create Cryotherapy wraps and pads. "I don't speak science, Stephanie" you may be saying right now-- well, these are convenient to use cold wraps that conform to your body, stay at the perfect temperature, and

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-80989020071205433222011-02-16T19:55:00.000-08:002011-02-16T19:55:15.735-08:00

Let's start off with a little *News Flash!!!* If you look to the right, you may notice that my "next adventure" has changed and a race has been added to my schedule for the week. That's due to a few changes going on at Steph's 50 Marathon Challenge. The first is that I've been talking to a great company that has a wonderful product for runners. I'll write more about it once it's finalized, but

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-22031761386169316512011-02-16T05:50:00.000-08:002011-02-16T05:50:31.507-08:00

If you don't follow the marathons show, you should-- for many reasons, but right now there is a heated match going on between the US's Marathon Show with Joe Taricani and the UK's Marathon Talk. Over the past week they have each posted pictures of well known runners doing their thing and people click "like" to vote. The US had an early lead, but we've come to a tie on the final day. The tie

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-83937251046733782011-02-15T09:58:00.000-08:002011-02-15T09:59:54.641-08:00

Rock'n'Roll Mardi Gras  ~ Pre-Race! This past weekend was pretty packed so I'm going to break the "post-race thoughts" into 2 or 3 parts. Today we'll be looking at Marathon Eve!  Expo Traveling with me this weekend was MB (as per usual), Christine (first time half-marathoner) and Kim (one of the original MM Divas) and we tried to take a little bit of everything in of New Orleans. We all flew in

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-4046566534035451902011-02-13T19:49:00.000-08:002011-02-13T19:49:47.292-08:00

Today I finished my 49th state at the Rock'n'Roll Mardi Gras Marathon on my quest to 50 marathons in 50 states by Boston 2011. I managed to catch all my flights, stay healthy, and finished every SINGLE marathon I signed up for (that was was run... thanks Myrle Beach '10). I'm all signed up for Boston and ready to go... now get here already!!! Don't worry-- in the mean time I'll have at least

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-13960343346006056052011-02-11T07:50:00.000-08:002011-02-11T07:51:48.881-08:00

Inspiration Points...Marathon #55!, State #49!1. 1 to GO! My last state before Boston and #50!!!!2. 10-Star Maniac ********** ... After this weekend I'll be a 10-star titanium maniac!3. Christine's First! My friend Christine will be running her FIRST half-marathon! 4. NOLA! I've never been to New Orleans and I'm esp excited to go during Mardi Gras "season"5. Divas and Running Buddies! This is the

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-17332184565302085422011-02-10T18:41:00.000-08:002011-02-10T18:41:14.917-08:00

You can't run A marathon without some doubter telling you "that's dangerous" and "you could get hurt." Running as many marathons and miles that I do, it's more like "you could die" and "you ARE going to get hurt." I'm asked about the state of my knees about 10 times a week and that includes other runners and marathoners. I hear it so often that any pain, twinge, and general change in my knee

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-83938070129487412472011-02-08T08:43:00.000-08:002011-02-08T08:43:40.265-08:00

People often ask me what marathons I've run. When I start listing the 50+ they look at me a little confused and I usually get challenged with the following conversation "Well have you run that Boston one??" Me: (sigh) "I'm saving it for my last state. I'll be running it this year."  "well have you run The New York City Marathon?"  Me: (exasperated) "no" ... and the look of dissapointment in me

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-86100839449177684732011-02-07T18:37:00.000-08:002011-02-07T18:38:07.174-08:00

I've been seriously MIA lately but you can't blame me too much... I've run 4 marathons in the past 5 weekends and I've added a lot of midweek mileage. With that said there are plenty of updates to make, starting with my most recent marathon... Melbourne and Beaches Music Marathon Maniacs at our Pre-race dinner! All pretty! This past weekend was Melbourne and Beaches Music Marathon and my second

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-90112533287428114982011-02-02T04:27:00.000-08:002011-02-02T04:27:31.556-08:00

Last week was my 8th of WS100 training and a much needed "drop down week." Some people have asked me about what this means...  Drop Down Week. n. in endurance run training this is a reduction in weekly mileage, directly following an increase in mileage for 2 to 4 weeks. This continues to increase mileage for 2 to 4 weeks, and again drop down. These are the weeks for rest and "recovery."  Why

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-49024786486311549832011-01-26T19:53:00.000-08:002011-02-23T04:39:28.878-08:00

Tag line:  "Flat, Fast, and Fun!!!" Ratings...Rock'n'Roll Arizona Marathon ~ January 16, 2011Phoenix to Tempe, AZ ~ Downtown Phoenix to Sun Devils Stadium Type: 100% Road Year Running: 8th Registration Fee: $105-$130 Early $145 at Expo Charity Race? Yes! list of charities found here. Runners:  5062... Females: 2188 Available Races: Marathon, Half-Marathon, 2 Person Relay, Kids Run Average Finish

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-74803150025651942582011-01-26T10:09:00.000-08:002011-01-26T10:09:59.727-08:00

This past weekend was the Maui Oceanfront Marathon in Maui, HI! I didn't get a chance to write a RUNdown because well... I was in Hawaii!!! This was my 48th state, which I completed leaving only TWO remaining! I can't believe we're so close to the finish, kids. Please note, however that the finish is still quite a bit away. I was worried that planning a state too close to Boston, would leave me

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-74587480280128527732011-01-23T07:19:00.000-08:002011-03-23T07:31:18.360-07:00

Check here from all the tips, tricks, and advice from Coach Bob, the speed coach at  Mojo Running in West Chester, OH. During the weeks leading up to the 2011 Boston Marathon Coach Bob will be posting on various topics surrounding the Boston Marathon.  Week 1: 5 Tips for a Speed(ier) Boston (Click) Week 2: Overcoming Boston (Why it's unique) (click) Week 3: How to Run Boston (click) 

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-72086131464771358412011-01-19T09:12:00.000-08:002011-01-19T09:12:45.740-08:00

A while back I wrote a post urging marathon runners, especially the "Mega Marathoners" to reach for new goals each year, each week, each race... and not be content with just finishing a bunch of marathons in a year. There is a lot to be said about somebody completing 10... 20... 30+ marathons a year, but it takes a lot more to finish those while trying to improve your running in some way or

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-69200290205288559262011-01-17T17:28:00.000-08:002011-01-17T17:28:02.680-08:00

Rock'n'Roll Arizona Marathon Yesterday was the Rock'n'Roll Arizona Marathon in Phoenix, AZ and my 47th marathon state! It is also the home of my new PR time of 3:21:05!!! I'm happy to report that despite the sore legs from WS training, I had my most consistent race ever, running 7:40 - miles through the whole race from start to finish.  Race Day When we got to the start it was definitely chilly

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-90516097255727196422011-01-15T19:01:00.000-08:002011-01-15T19:01:09.213-08:00

Inspiration Points... Marathon #52!, State #47! 1. Under 5! A new state!  2. The SUN!!!! ... After weeks of bitter cold, I'm SO excited to feel the warm sun! 3. GE Team! I will be running for my company (GE) in this years US Corporate Track and Field marathon championship. 4. For Greg! I'm happy to report my buddy is doing MUCH better after last weekends emergency.  AZ Race RUNdown...

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-79813917125229195062011-01-10T17:23:00.000-08:002011-01-10T17:46:32.935-08:00

Zoom! Yah! Yah! Yesterday was the Zoom! Yah! Yah! Indoor Marathon held in Northfield, MN and my 46th marathon state. The race itself was absolutely fantastic. Coach Dick and his whole family and crew were amazing, organizing such a fantastic race!  Marathon Eve The race is held at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. Outside of the weather being completely intolerable to live in (I thought my

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-3809983659612567802011-01-07T07:06:00.000-08:002011-01-07T07:06:02.605-08:00

Inspiration Points... Marathon #50!, State #45! 1. 5 To Go! With only 5 to go, this will be checking off my MN marathon state! 2. Marathon 'o' Marathons ... After a FOUR week break, I'm back to marathon craziness... 6 over the next 6 weeks scheduled so far!3. My First Indoor! I haven't ran an indoor race since 9th grade indoor track. I've been practicing twice a week on an indoor track and I

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-67696058755053185632011-01-06T06:00:00.000-08:002011-01-10T17:46:55.781-08:00

WS 100 Training ~ Week 4 *Hills Hills, Hills*Living in Cincinnati, I often hear from other runners "You have a great marathon there!" (the Flying Pig) .... "But there are a LOT of hills!!!" Fortunately (or unfortunately sometimes) I live right in the middle of the course and run on some part of it for most of my runs.  I'm under the impression that it's literally impossible for me to do enough

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-75322144106637367102010-12-31T09:00:00.000-08:002010-12-31T09:00:24.589-08:00

Best Marathon Medals of 2010...This year there was some serious bling in the marathon world that by far outshines my 2009 medals! I've taken all of my ratings from my 2010 Marathons (of the 27 marathons/ultras, only 23 gave out medals) and ranked them best to worst, with the top 5 taking the prizes*. I'll do a new "Best of" each day for the next few weeks, ending with "Best overall marathon." If

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-6173512086783721972010-12-27T21:13:00.000-08:002010-12-27T21:13:30.093-08:00

Back in January I set up a list of goals for myself that I wanted to accomplish... you know, on top of pursuing 50 marathons in 50 states. Checking the states off wasn't enough-- I wanted to improve my running, train hard, stay healthy, and reach for new distances and times I wasn't overly sure I could hit. I like to publish these goals so you all can keep me accountable. So how did I do? Let's

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-65982996213125415292010-12-27T20:04:00.000-08:002011-02-23T04:40:25.837-08:00

Tag line:  "Our hills will make you laugh... the cold will make you cry" Ratings...Dallas White Rock Marathon ~ December 5, 2010Dallas, TX~ Fair Park Type: 100% Road Year Running: 41st Registration Fee: $100-$125 Early ($150 late) Charity Race? Yes! Texas Scottish Rite Hospital (primary) Runners:  4,593 Finishers ... 1,777 Females Available Races: Marathon, Half-Marathon, Full Relay, 5K Fun Run

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-60435252446728267512010-12-26T14:07:00.000-08:002011-01-10T17:47:15.517-08:00

Merry Christmas to all and Happy Boxing Day to my Canadian followers! I hope you all got everything on your running wish lists. It was an especially very Merry Christmas for me as I made my yearly mileage goal of 2010 miles in 2010 on Christmas day! (Merry Christmas to me! ... now go run more!) Of those 2010 miles, about 750 were marathon/ultra races with the remaining being relentless training

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-8407651068739254982010-12-19T13:46:00.000-08:002010-12-19T13:59:04.251-08:00

Last week I posted my Western States 100 training schedule (post here) but as we know, I'm still not done with a few other goals...  ~ Finish 50 Marathons in 50 States (aka. stay injury free) ~ First indoor marathon and GE Corporate marathon competition (run fast on flat) ~ Sub 3:20 marathon in 2011 (get fast!) Due to the number of goals, my training is a little crazy right now. I'm plan to

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-32365314678685968932010-12-17T08:16:00.000-08:002010-12-17T08:16:18.861-08:00

RazzyRoo!  Thanks to everybody that submitted their names for entry into the RazzyRoo give-a-way. Special thanks to all who recommended races (especially in those high elevation states). I've pulled all the rec'd races into my spreadsheet o' marathons and will be using most (if not all) of them sometime in the next year and a half. I put everybody's entries into a spreadsheet and assigned a

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-54001699905559387272010-12-16T17:56:00.000-08:002010-12-16T17:56:58.159-08:00

Tomorrow will be the drawing for the RazzyRoo sports headband give-a-way. For those west coasters, I will do the drawing at 11am EST (8am for my WA friends). Ways to enter?.... 1) Follow my blog (let me know you follow) ~ 1 Entry 2) Post the give-a-way on your blog/facebook/twitter (let me know) ~ 1 Entry 3) Cheered/Ran with/Met up at... any of my marathons~ 1 Entry per race! 4) Recommended a

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-78396505373505071202010-12-14T04:55:00.000-08:002010-12-14T04:55:43.279-08:00

I think I've come up with a pretty good schedule for Western States training. This will be my first 100 miler and I'm not all too familiar with this territory, so I'm deferring to the experts. This is a mixed schedule from a few ultra websites, my friend Brent's 100 miler schedule and some tips and advice from other ultra bloggers. My biggest goal in training will be to try and get in a 100 mile

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-34043655494496979722010-12-13T06:17:00.000-08:002010-12-13T06:24:51.079-08:00

Hopefully everybody had a great weekend of races and long training runs (some of us twice)... and if you're in the my area a very snowy one!  More Marathons! I'm quite often asked "What are you going to do when you're done with your 50 states? Are you going to miss traveling to all of them?" Well I would, except I'm not quite finished! I have a few more to do because MB ("Mom," "Mary Beth," "

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-84730315912681896352010-12-12T09:32:00.000-08:002010-12-12T10:17:58.974-08:00

Ok kids, lot's to discuss in today's class... My Last Marathon! ... of 2010! This was my 27th marathon this year and my last until Zoom Yah! Yah! in January. Last weekend was the Dallas White Rock Marathon in Dallas, TX. It was my first time to Dallas so I didn't expect the COLD weather at all! When you think TX, you think heat and cactus, right? I think so! This race definitely started out in

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-32014127206187287632010-12-04T19:56:00.000-08:002010-12-04T19:56:18.627-08:00

On the eve of my 45th marathon state on may way to completing 50 marathons in 50 states, I get a fun little message on facebook from a fellow runner. It went a little like this... "Philip S.: I just saw your name get picked for Western States! Congratulations and good luck!" ... hahaha...wait...say whaaa?!?! I felt like my hangover had just kicked in again. On my layover in the STL airport I

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-76531293661499289572010-12-03T06:47:00.000-08:002010-12-03T06:47:08.880-08:00

Inspiration Points... Marathon #50!, State #45! 1. My 50th Marathon! This is my 50th lifetime marathon/ultramrathon!  2. Last Marathon :( ... of this year! Don't worry, I have 5 more states to go... plus a few extras!3. Texas and Cowboys! I LOVE the Dallas Cowboys (yes, even with their current terrible seasons) and this will be my first time visiting their stadium. Unfortunately this race got

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-49075984955039541352010-12-01T11:04:00.000-08:002010-12-01T11:11:42.345-08:00

Hi All! sorry for being so MIA lately. I was busy gaining 2 lbs over thanksgiving. My brother made these pieces of heaven in a cup that he likes to call "cupcakes" and forced them upon me! I have a lot of updates the first is... haven't you been wondering what happened in Philly??...  Marathons... Philadelphia Marathon ~ Yep! I ran. I know, I know I didn't blog about it at all... no race

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-47530508399617557622010-11-24T20:15:00.000-08:002010-11-24T20:17:43.902-08:00

Just in time for Black Friday shopping, Steph's 50 brings you the...  2010 Mega Marathoners Christmas Wish List!!!! Hey, If Oprah can do it so can I!!!! Below are a list of some of the (in my opinion) best products, apparel gadgets, etc for a blogging-crazy-marathoner on the go! Some of them are classics and some are the newest fun gadgets I've found this year... either way, they're fun and

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-10354529060414697602010-11-17T09:27:00.000-08:002011-02-23T04:41:23.663-08:00

Tag line:  "You're at the 30... the 20... the 10... TOUCHDOWN MARATHON" Ratings...Marshall University Marathon ~ November 7, 2010Huntington, WV~ Marshall University and Downtown Huntington Type: 100% Road/Sidewalk Year Running: 7th Registration Fee: $60 Early ($80 late) Charity Race? No Runners:  514 Finishers ... 164 Females Available Races: Marathon, Half-Marathon, Half-Relay, 5M Walk Average

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-3775996854139701232010-11-15T07:03:00.000-08:002010-11-15T07:03:03.720-08:00

I'm still feeling pretty sick... better than last week, but I can't seem to kick this cold bug. Yuck! It's definitely made worse by running outside now that the winter weather kicked in. Since I'm not feeling my best, this post will be made mostly via picture.  Friday... I lost another one of these... As you can tell from the other toes... I really couldn't afford that. Damn! Saturday...

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-26793651199253534022010-11-12T05:07:00.000-08:002011-02-23T04:41:57.041-08:00

Tag line: "Easy stress-free marathon!" Ratings...Spinx Run Fest ~ October 30, 2010Greenville, SC~ Greenville Drive Stadium Type: Road with "Rabbit Trail"-- track-like surface option Year Running: 6th Registration Fee: $65-$85 Early ($95 late) Charity Race? No Runners:  604 Finishers ... 220 Females Available Races: Full, Half, 5K Average Finish Time: 4:19:44BQ %: 13.91 Overall Race Ratings:

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-78490175253697054132010-11-09T05:28:00.000-08:002010-11-09T05:28:52.265-08:00

We made our way to Marshall University in Huntington, WV (only about a 3 hour drive from my house) on Saturday evening. Did a very chilly self-guided tour of the University (primarily the bookstore), went to the packet pick-up and pasta feed and were back at the hotel by 6:30. Where I pretty much immediately fell asleep until marathon time the next morning.  When I woke up on Sunday I still

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-80163694172636032582010-11-05T18:41:00.000-07:002010-11-05T18:41:13.010-07:00

So maybe 5 marathons in 6 weeks can can be a little much. Burning the candle at both ends... I've finally gotten a little run down and woke up with a little cold. So what should I do? Well the logical option would be to rest and relax this weekend. But we know that's not going to happen.... we've got a marathon! This weekend is the Marshall University Marathon in Huntington, WV. The best part?

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-65666768859923807132010-11-03T17:59:00.000-07:002010-11-03T18:09:52.049-07:00

Tag line: "50k .... plus a little" Ratings...Bimbler's Bluff 50k ~ October 24, 2010Guilford, CT~ Genesse Preserve/Guilford School Type: 99%Trail... plus a little grass and crossings Year Running: 3rd Registration Fee: $45 Early ($55 late) Charity Race? No Runners:  103 Finishers (111 Starters)... 25 Females Available Races: 50k, Relay (limited) Average Finish Time: NABQ %: NA Overall Race

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-10227497594034250082010-10-31T14:35:00.000-07:002010-10-31T14:35:27.860-07:00

Ok, I really can't wait til the end for ... Boston Watch 2K11! Around 3:30 pm today, I was awoken from a little hangover nap to the sounds of my email notification on my phone. Andddd this is what I found... "Dear Stephanie N. Arango, This is to notify you that your entry into the 115th Boston Marathon on Monday, April 18, 2011 has been accepted" I went to the entrants list to confirm and

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-89353446253907444992010-10-29T14:18:00.000-07:002010-10-29T14:20:12.315-07:00

Inspiration Points... Marathon #47, State #44! 1. Redemption is Mine!!! This is my 2nd attempt at a SC marathon, because the Myrtle Beach Marathon was cancelled at 11pm the night prior for a few flurries of snow that turned out to be a beautiful day! This is the ONLY race I've signed up for that I was unable to complete (albeit I wasn't allowed to start either). 2. Last New State! As you know I

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-55737778128770420982010-10-27T12:28:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:04:00.363-07:00

Tag line: "Where Do I Carry My Passport??" Ratings...Detroit Marathon ~ October 17, 2010Detroit, MI ~ Downtown Detroit and Windsor, Ontario (Canada) Type: 100% Pavement Year Running: 33rd! Registration Fee: $75-$90 Early ($105-$125 late) Charity Race? Yes... List of supported charities can be found here. Runners:  3,227... 1,163 Females Available Races: Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K Average

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-89148339245204833982010-10-27T05:06:00.000-07:002010-10-27T05:06:31.808-07:00

This weekend is the Spinx Run Fest in SC~ State #44! Crazy, right? Well it's also Halloween weekend and of COURSE I need to dress up. This is where I need your help! I need something for the race that can be converted to be runner friendly. Also, it would be neat if I could incorporate something I normally carry as a prop. For example... I carry a water bottle and I could put an Rx sign on it and

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-39700622739422237052010-10-26T05:59:00.000-07:002010-10-26T05:59:58.466-07:00

Looking for an early 2011 marathon (or half) where you can rock out for 26.2 (or 13.1) miles? Join me for the 2011 RnR Mardi Gras Marathon (or half)! If all goes according to plan (no promises there) the Rock'n'Roll Mardi Gras Marathon will be marathon State #49!!! I just got an email with a $10 discount if you sign up before Halloween... Use code: MGTREAT.  Race Info... Name: Rock'n'Roll Mardi

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-15116312210554187652010-10-25T09:35:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:06:14.128-07:00

This past weekend was the Bimblers Bluff 50K in Guilford, CT.  State #43 for me and marathon #46! This is a small trail ultra that isn't too highly publicized. I found it in attempts to find a marathon that works. Hartford is at a huge marathon time of the year and the mean nip-muck man wouldn't let me in his race b/c I'm not from the area-- I still haven't forgiven Nip-Muck Man! Outside that,

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-46790835879577997562010-10-21T04:46:00.000-07:002010-10-21T04:46:18.722-07:00

BQ Watch 2K11! 3 days into the "confirmation" stage of Boston registration and I have still yet to receive word from the B.A.A. The good news?... hardly anybody else has either. If you haven't been following, the Boston Marathon closed out it's registration for 2011 in only 8 hours-- a significant record v. 2 months the prior year. I managed (after 4 attempts) to get my registration to go through

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-59869931754344800032010-10-20T20:05:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:04:00.365-07:00

Tag line: "Bring your own GU and lots of patience!" Ratings...Bank of America Chicago Marathon ~ October 10, 2010Chicago, IL ~ Grant Park, Chicago Type: 100% Pavement Year Running: 33rd! Registration Fee: $135 Charity Race? Yes... ~1/4 of runners are charity runners Runners:  36,159... 16,186 Females Available Races: Marathon Only Average Finish Time: 4:43:48BQ %: 8.5 Overall Race Ratings: 

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-11491276548788279442010-10-18T16:12:00.000-07:002010-10-18T16:12:30.288-07:00

If you haven't already heard-- marathon history was made today when the 2011 Boston Marathon closed in just about 7 hours! That's about 20K open reg spaces... gone in 7 hours! Why the change? Well they bumped back registration a month (from September to October) allowing for more people to register that qualified in the speedy-early fall marathons--Chicago, Columbus, Portland... Omaha? Ok maybe

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-45004401334034332452010-10-17T19:42:00.000-07:002010-10-17T19:42:06.601-07:00

Today was the Detroit Marathon and my state #42 (marathon #45). This marathon was different because the course goes from Detroit, into Windsor (Ontario) Canada. After the Chicago Marathon of last week, this felt like a breath of fresh air with only about 4,000 full marathon runners... albeit with another 10,000+ half marathoners and 5K runners.  Overall, the race went pretty well. I had a time

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-52493519292727135272010-10-16T18:36:00.000-07:002010-10-16T18:36:29.745-07:00

Happy Marathon Eve... let's face it-- it should be a holiday in all families!!! Michi-Losers MB and I spent the day in (gag) Ann Arbor to watch the Michi-Losers get further dominated by Iowa! Woohoo... great game! Ann Arbor is about 40 minutes away and before making our trip we went BACK to the marathon expo (for the second day in a row) to pick up an amphipod for MB and ... not gonna lie... I

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-86876856380490270342010-10-15T10:12:00.000-07:002010-10-15T10:12:33.076-07:00

Inspiration Points... 1. 45 TOTAL Marathons Completed! It's only my 42nd state, but I'm 3 ahead in total marathons! 2. Oh CANADAAAA During this race we get to run to Canada and back! Some of my favorite things are from Canada, like... Canadian Bacon, Heinz Ketchup, Marlene, and the 2010 Winter Olympics!3. Race 2 of 5 in a Row!... This is going to be my longest streak going! Let's see if we can

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-63018348463635546072010-10-13T09:39:00.000-07:002010-10-13T09:41:00.438-07:00

First, thanks for all the notes and comments on yesterdays post! I was a little deflated after Chicago, but keeping it in perspective it was a decent time. If you've been following-- you know I put more pressure on myself than the average bear!  Another Marathon o' Marathons... We're in the middle of a whirlwind and truly maniacal month of marathoning. 2 weeks ago I completed the Omaha Marathon

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-48502112387978512072010-10-12T10:24:00.000-07:002010-10-12T10:24:49.098-07:00

As you all know, this past weekend was the 2010 Chicago Marathon on 10.10.10! I'll do a full post-race and race ratings later... I just wanted to let everybody know I finished state #41 and it was a sub-4:00 so I won't have to repeat IL. Also-- I had a ton of fun with my Floridian friends who ventured up for the race- CB, Hill, and Coach Nathan. That is about where the good news ends... and the

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-75765336710855058462010-10-06T19:19:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:06:14.130-07:00

Tag line: "Don't forget your wings... you'll fly through this course!!!" Ratings...Omaha Marathon ~ September 26, 2010Omaha, NE ~ Downtown/Lewis and Clark Landing Type: 100% Pavement Year Running: 35th! Registration Fee: $70-$80 Early ($90-$100 late) Charity Race? Yes... Many, linked here Runners:  608, 208 Females... where all the girls at?? Available Races: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-74266902531214133852010-10-04T06:49:00.000-07:002010-10-04T06:49:29.548-07:00

 Steph in front of the Boston Marathon Finish Line!  This weekend we were sans a marathon on Steph's 50, but I did get a chance to make my journey to the motherland... the finish of the Boston Marathon! If you don't know, the Finish line is a permanent fixture in Boston as it is painted on the ground. If you're careful to time the stop lights right, you can get a picture!  The future site of

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-46965662217522554672010-09-30T17:17:00.000-07:002010-09-30T17:17:14.529-07:00

I started running in my vibrams and Nike Free 5.0's back in Jan when I had an ankle injury. The theory was that the minimalist shoes would do a good job of building up my foot/ankle muscles, rather than stuffing a shoe full of cushion so it was easier to run on... that is, until the cushion wears away in about 2 months. Since starting with my Nike Free's I've noticed a few changes... 1) Foot

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-75401457487961718432010-09-28T18:48:00.000-07:002010-09-28T18:48:37.121-07:00

 Last night I realized we were past the 24 to 36 hours that Omaha claims to post their final race results. I cared because I was on the cusp of 3:23/3:24 and wanted to know what my final time was. They just now posted a note with links to the results. For the marathon they just linked to marathonguide.com... are those the "final" results? Sometimes there are differences b/t the certified race

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-75282321431965155472010-09-26T17:32:00.000-07:002010-09-26T17:32:02.610-07:00

Today was the Omaha Marathon and State #40 on my Tour De US! If you read my last post I mentioned that judging from the 2009 results, this looked like a FAST course-- and I was definitely NOT wrong! After my 3 full weekends off from racing, I knew I was feeling good but I had no idea I was capable of ... 3:23:58 (unofficial race results). Prior to this race my best time was 3:34:09.  To tell ya

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-48300370986577272010-09-23T11:01:00.000-07:002010-09-23T11:01:20.874-07:00

Inspiration Points... 1. The BIG 4-0!!! If you even ask if that is my age, just know-- I'm not afraid to smack you!!! It's my 40th State!!! (43rd Marathon!) 2. 50-Stater Reunion! This is the 2010 50 States Marathon Club 3rd quarter reunion! Lot's O' 50-staters and Marathon Maniacs expected here! 3. 5 Marathon, 6 Weeks... Let the fun begin! This is just the start to the world of hurtin' I'm going

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-83564717600169659252010-09-22T10:38:00.000-07:002010-10-05T05:11:33.684-07:00

Tag line: "Potato sack packets, big breakfast, and Huckleberry milkshakes... oh there is a marathon too!!!" (These are about a month past due... sorry!) Antler Arches in Jackson, WY-- That's MB not me Ratings...Mesa Falls Marathon ~ August 28, 2010Ashton, ID ~ Targhee National Forest Type: 13.6 Miles of Pavement 9.8 Miles of Gravel roads (wide), and 2.8 Miles of trail (Non-Technical) Year

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-25254775683615765702010-09-20T09:24:00.000-07:002010-09-20T09:25:55.258-07:00

Do you ever get yourself into something and as it approaches you start getting more and more anxious? Like you're heading toward the top of the roller coaster and now you're about to take the plunge? Well this week I'm almost at the top and heading into a good stretch of another Marathon o' Marathons... and it's definitely up there as one of my toughest stretches....  9/26: Omaha Marathon10/

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-32954552699480110972010-09-17T05:00:00.000-07:002010-09-17T05:00:32.462-07:00

Yesterday we had a health fair at work (amazing, right?). They brought in some local restaurants to give samples of healthy food options as well as local gym/running/workout facilities to provide more information and to even take us on an hour sample workout if we wanted. Lauren from Stylized Existence was helping put on the event and pre-warned me about the cross fit class I had signed up for.

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-25494133931170427382010-09-15T06:00:00.000-07:002010-09-15T06:08:41.280-07:00

Q&A on Inner Knee Pain Out of all the people I know (and some I don't) that follow my fun little Tour De US on here, some of them actually ask me advice on running/training/injury prevention etc. Of those people there are a few that actually listen and even then there are a fewer people that I actually manage to help. I'm not a Dr. but I've been running long enough to see-- sadly in some cases

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-65725030699249200032010-09-08T16:50:00.000-07:002010-09-08T16:50:51.265-07:00

... of course I mean water gatorade, electrolyte drinks etc -- but I like where your heads at!!! Ok, so SOME of us (yours truely) don't like many liquids at all (including water) but we have to include them in our diets or we aren't able to run. The few drinks I do enjoy usually involve some sort of liquor and pomegranate.... pomegranate margarita, pomegranate martini, etc. I've also written

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-2438830104337113602010-09-01T04:44:00.000-07:002010-09-01T04:44:42.459-07:00

... or should I say they selected me! Coach Dick and the runners of St. Olaf College sent out THE email last night letting us know who was selected for the Zoom Yah! Yah! Indoor Marathon and guess whos name is on there? Das right... Stephanie!! Yayyyy Stephanie. I guess my plees to the running gods helped. A little about the race... Direction: Put on by Coach Dick Daymont and the St. Olaf

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-41549015077131723282010-08-31T08:44:00.000-07:002010-08-31T08:44:49.926-07:00

A lot of bloggers are into "3 things Thursdays" and posts of that nature. I never have only 3 things to say so we're going to go with a "Too Many Things to Count Tuesday" sort of a post-- just go with it, ok? Just some interesting tid-bits/updates on Steph's 50 Marathon Challenge... (Note: if you are friends with me on facebook, most of these have been recent status updates, so excuse the

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-10907454764334975282010-08-29T18:04:00.000-07:002010-08-29T18:10:57.701-07:00

This past weekend was the Mesa Falls Marathon in Ashton, ID. For me this is state number 39 and marathon/ultra number 42! The Race What I found that stuck out more than anything is that this race is truly all about the runners. What the runners want/need... the runners get. We had to be to the school early to be picked up for the ride to the start... so what do they do? They provide us with a

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-23850755802232608512010-08-27T11:50:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:06:14.131-07:00

Tag line: "Come Enjoy our 31 Mile Mountain Climb!!!" Ratings...2010 HURL Elkhorn 50K ~ August 7, 2010Helena, MT ~ Helena National Park Year Running: 15th Registration Fee: $60 ($80 late) Charity Race? No Runners:  58 Completed (62 Started),  22 Females Available Races: 50K, 50 Mile, 23K Average Finish Time: NABQ %: NA Overall Race Ratings: 3.7/5.0 Average Calculated Rating: 3.7/5.0~ This is a

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-15227144739857683992010-08-23T06:26:00.000-07:002010-08-23T06:26:47.973-07:00

Haven't had much of a chance to post lately, but I'm still here-- I did not get eaten by a penguin in Alaska or anything, no worries. Alaska I posted a little about the trip so far, but it was a ton of fun with MB, Aunt Terri, Grandma, and Jodi. Alaska is so pretty! We went on a boat tour, went shopping, went to the dog sled show and held the puppies, saw glaciers, dressed up as a moose (ok

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-48170821875024639062010-08-14T23:37:00.000-07:002010-08-14T23:37:54.900-07:00

I arrived in Anchorage, Alaska late last night. I couldn't sleep on the plane, which ended up instantly adapting me to their time zone. Woke up early, did a quick 4 miles down in the hotel fitness center then got ready to meet up with the rest of the fam. This is a girls weekend for (in picture order) CJ (Groupie #1), Grandma, Steph, MB, and Aunt Terri. The girls on Alaska Day 1 After

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-91820852679993597992010-08-12T11:11:00.000-07:002010-08-12T11:11:30.439-07:00

This weekend we are off to Alaska for the "Big Wild Life Runs". The race is held in Anchorage, AK and includes the Humpy's Classic Marathon, the Skinny Raven Half Marathon, and the Snow City 5K.  I'll be joined this weekend by MB of course, but we'll also have some special guest appearances by... Grandma! (running the 5K), Aunt Terri! (cheering!) and Cousin Jodi! (aka CJ, or "Groupie #1") running

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8598796090294938359.post-88530786817505901802010-08-09T05:33:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:06:14.132-07:00

Saturday was the HURL 50K in Helena, MT. Let me start by saying, this was by far THE most challenging race I've run (including the 50 miler a few weeks ago). The race was less a 50K run and more a "try and run up and down our giant steep mountains...he he" -- at least that was my take on it. The Race Start... Who Stole the O2? When I first got to the race site I thought "why can't I breathe?

Stephanie Nicholehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16138752457804017361noreply@blogger.com12