the 2021 running roundup

With the new year just a few days away, it’s time to bring on the 2021 running roundup. That’s right: we are going to sum up the year and see how we did! Whoo hoo!

Best race experience in 2021: New Year’s Rockin’ 5k

Unfortunately, the best race of the year was the first race of the year. The Rockin’ 5K had it all: a new and gorgeous venue, a great medal, and mimosas at the finish line. There was just something about celebrating in front of that clear, azure lagoon that won my heart.

Best run of 2021: Rockin’ New Year’s 5K

This was a new to me race, and I loved it. I’m super sad it was canceled for this year, because it was a well organized race in a great venue. It was one of my strongest runs of the year, and I would love to recapture that feeling.

Best new piece of gear: GoGuarded Hand-Held With Pepper Sprayhttps://goguarded.com/product/go-guarded-hand-held-with-pepper-spray/

Much as I hate the need for safety products, this was a good choice. It’s inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to carry. I like that it offers distance (pepper spray) and close-up (rubber blade) protection, so regardless of your situation, you’re covered.

Best medal of the year: Pink Up The Pace 5K

There weren’t too many absolutely outstanding medal this year, but I’m going to give this honor to Pink Up The Pace. This was the first “custom” medal I received for this race, and I thought it was super cute and colorful. It was also perfect with my hibiscus mimosa.

Best piece of running advice received: Listen To Your Body

This year, more than ever, paying attention to your body is critical to preventing stress, injury, and burnout. I have been really good about honoring what my body says to me, and I’m proud that I’ve eased up pressure on myself when needed.

Total number of miles in 2021: 1824!

I didn’t really have a number in mind for miles this year. Every morning, I just got outside and tried to complete at least three miles of running or walking. Obviously, it worked like a charm, because 1824 miles is pretty impressive. I’m pleased.

Total number of races: 10

Gosh. This is probably the fewest races I’ve run in my entire history of running. Of course, Covid is partially (mostly) to blame for this. I think next year, I’m going to manage one a month, one way or the other. I like running about 20 races a year, so 12 should be manageable. Fingers crossed.

Total number of shoes: Five

Five seems to be my magic number for new running shoes. With the side effects, and residual nerve damage from my surgery, it’s more important than ever to keep myself in good shoes. I’m all about preventing any other major issues, so new shoes are a regular and welcome purchase.

Worst running experience: The day after my booster shot

I had no business running that day. In my defense, I felt ok when I woke up and hit the road, but its didn’t last and I’m only grateful that I had enough sense to all its quits after a mile and I really did some damage to myself.

Race I probably wouldn’t run again: Superhero Run 8k

This was fun for a one and done. I liked it, and I liked the course, but it’s a bit of a hike from my house, and it was crowded. I might run it again, but there are a lot of events in February, so it’s not a must for me.

Race that surprised me: The Spud Run 10K

If you told me I would have a great race experience in the middle of the “country,” with runners walking away with sacks of potatoes and heads of cabbages in addition to their medals, i might have laughed at you. However, I really enjoyed running through the cabbage fields of Hastings and would not be hard pressed to do it again.

Run experience you to which you are most looking forward in the New Year: Best Damn Race Starkey Park

It has been forever since I’ve done a trail race, so the idea of another trail relay just hits right. I’m thrilled for the experience of camping with friends, combined with running for a race brand I love. Want to join us? Use code RUNSWITHPUGS when you sign up for this or any other Best Damn Race distance or city to save 10%.

The most important thing I took away from running this year: Thanks for the memories.

From races, to runs, to zoom calls, to messages, these memories will last a lifetime.

Most inspirational runner: You know who you are.

Every person I know who puts sole to pavement or trail inspires me. We all have so many challenges we face, and I am so proud of knowing this incredible community that is always happy to be supportive and uplifting. lt’s like nothing else in the world.

Goals for 2022: I mean. The sky is the limit, right?

• Run 1,500 miles. I think that’s definitely doable.
• Travel out of state for at least one race.
• Stretch a few times a week. It’s good for me. I need to do it.
• Strength train. I got in a good habit with it towards the end of this year. I can build on that progress.
• Drink. Water. It’s my greatest fitness/nutrition challenge. I always need to improve.

I’m sure I’ll add and adjust to this list as the year passes, but here’s our starting point.

I’m just a little too cautious to be excited for the new year, after the last two years, but it’s always nice to have a fresh start.

How was your 2021?

What are some of your goals for next year?

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