Though it wasn’t a big year of running but it sure was an adventure that had it’s up’s and downs. Obviously, the hamstring injury was the low point which too over 9 most of the year but I ended with some fun races.

Last year I did a “Best of 2014 Running” and thought I’d do it again. This year it’s hosted by Eat Pray Run DC. I’ve added some “other” pieces to the questions.

Best Race Photo & Best Race Experience: Pacing 10k Valley Harvest

I’ve never used a pace bunny before at a race so I’m not sure what drove me to sign up to be one but I’m sure happy I did. Through White Rabbit Pacing, I paced the 1:10 – 10k finish and managed a 1:09:59 finish time.

I was super nervous going into it as I was just getting my foot back to normal after it’s brief encounter with injury. I did a few practice runs and took some time to figure out pacing with my Garmin which was a life saver.

I love this race photo from me pacing – I had so much fun!

Though the winds was rough, this was the first time I loved running the 10k at Valley Harvest Marathon as I normally dislike one long open section. This year that part of the route was filled with runners around me, high fives and good chats with people I’ve never met before.

I absolutely loved pacing and planning on doing it again in 2016!

Best Volunteering Experience: Maritime Race Weekend

THIS RACE! This race was supposed to be my “come back” race but it was not. Luckily, I was able to volunteer handing out medals to finishers both Friday night (5k) and Saturday (all distances).

This race is one of the best races in Nova Scotia. The excitement around the race year round is vibrant. It’s the race that encourages everyone to participate whether you are a runner or not. It’s the race that gives back to community groups. It’s the race that you don’t want to miss!

I had a lot of fun volunteering, meeting new people, seeing friends finish their races. It an event that your running friends/communities come together. It’s a must do and I’m all ready signed up for September 2016!

Best Run: PEI Half Marathon

This by far was my best run of the year. My 3rd half marathon and one I was super nervous about. I didn’t know how my hamstring would hold up but new to keep moving forward and take it all in.

My goal was a 6:30/km pace and I set my Garmin to 6:20 pace. I finished in 2:13:28. Not my best time but not my worst either; it was the exact time that I needed it to be. Though my hamstring was fine running, I’d later be in pain for a week due to not stretching properly – lesson learned.

Best New Piece of Gear: 

I don’t really have a favourite new piece of running gear but I sure did love my pink Asics that my husband picked up from me.

Best Piece of Running Advice You Received:

Maintenance and cross training is key for good running. You can run all you want but if you don’t work the muscles the propel you to run – you remain injured. ~from my physiotherapist

Race Experience You’d Repeat in a Heartbeat:

Pacing with White Rabbit Pacing. Hands down, I loved this and hoping to do so again next fall.

Worst Running Moment: Hamstring Injury.

On December 10th 2014, I pulled my hamstring playing soccer and figured it was just a normal minor injury. I took some time off, not enough clearly and waited a full month to seek out treatment – lessened learned: seek treatment ASAP. Just because you’ve pulled muscle many many times before doesn’t always mean it’s the same.

This injury sidelined me until June, though I was running a little I was still in lots of pain until June…until I saw a Sports Physiotherapist and he got me back on track. I was going great until I somehow injured my cuboid bone that took me out of another race.

Injuries suck.

Favourite Medal: PEI Half Marathon & Valley Harvest 10k Pacing.

 

Your Year in Three Words: Frustrating. Motivating. Driven.

Frustrating – yes because I was in so much pain with my injury and doing everything I was told to do.

Motivating – being supported by family, friends, bloggers, social media friends and at races.

Driven – well, I guess my motto is just never give up.

Though 2015 didn’t start off great it definitely got a lot better!

What were some of your top 2015 running (or other workout) highlights?

Answer some of the questions in the comments?

What was your favourite “thing” of 2015?