Author Archives: hpiel

BougeBouge Verdun Race Report

The BougeBouge Verdun race proved to be an exhilarating event, showcasing a beautiful 10.5 km course near Montreal. With over 450 runners participating, interest in this race has surged, establishing it as a notable local tradition. Randy and Ifi’s experience was filled with excitement, successful pacing, and lively atmosphere. The race, featuring ample support and great organization, culminated in Randy’s impressive finish time and Ifi’s commendable performance. Overall, the event was a joyful celebration of community and athleticism, hinting at its bright future!

Challenge Cap Québec

[AI Generated]: The very first Cap Québec Triathlon took place on July 20 and July 21, 2024, offering three race options: C 25 Sprint, A 51 Olympic, and P 113 Demi. Challenge Family expanded its events to North America, including this race. Participants had a well-organized pre-race experience and enjoyed the scenic swim course in the marina. The bike course featured picturesque views and minimal technical issues. The run combined historic and riverside scenery. Post-race, athletes enjoyed a variety of food options and the event concluded with an awards ceremony and entries for future races. Overall, the race was a resounding success.

Bring on the Bay 2024

[Generated by AI] “Bring on the Bay” was an exhilarating event held at Nepean Sailing Club in Ottawa on July 13, 2024. With swimmers and triathletes taking on the challenge, the 3K open water swim attracted 800 participants, making it the second largest in Canada. Despite not participating, the writer’s involvement in event setup and support was fulfilling, witnessing elite and age group swimmers in action. The day culminated in a joyous finish at Britannia Yacht Club, marking an overall uplifting and successful experience.

Boilermaker 2024: Hot and Hilly

[Generated by AI]: The Boilermaker Road Race 2024 in Utica, New York was an unforgettable experience! Despite some initial congestion, the abundance of water stations kept runners hydrated throughout the 15KM course. The weather was challenging but added to the excitement. The race featured a mix of challenging hills and scenic city views, with a fantastic finish line atmosphere. Post-race, participants enjoyed plentiful freebies and bonded with fellow runners. The event was rated “5 – Monumentally Awesome” overall and “5 – Excellent” for the course. Join us for their 50th anniversary!

Running in Bermuda

[Generated by AI]: Randy Chafey and Ifi celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in Bermuda. Randy squeezes in five runs, including one in NYC and four in Bermuda. Running in Hamilton and on the Railway Trail in Bermuda proves challenging due to traffic, lack of sidewalks, treacherous crossings, and rugged trails. Despite these obstacles, Bermuda’s beauty shines through, but finding suitable running areas is difficult. Randy expresses caution for runners in Bermuda but still recommends the island for its other charms.

Matt’s France Marathon

[Generated by AI]: Matt Upton’s experience at the Lake Annecy Marathon was filled with breathtaking scenery despite challenges with the aid stations and unexpected heat. Starting at the edge of the old city, the route weaved between the mountains and the lake. Upton finished in approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes, but passed hundreds of people throughout the race. He expressed a desire to do the event again, recommending it for its scenic course. Suggestions included staying in Annecy and carrying a hydration pack. I’ll be back.

Randy’s SLM: A Marathon Retrospective

[Generated by AI]: In April 2024, I ran the St. Lawrence Marathon with the goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Despite meticulous planning and rigorous training, unexpected challenges led to a humbling experience. Reflecting on the lessons learned, I acknowledge the need for adaptability in pacing and setting realistic expectations. The Hansons Advanced Plan, though enticing, proved too demanding, leading to burnout and weight loss. Underestimating the hills and weather forecast also impacted my performance. However, amidst the disappointment, I’ve come to appreciate personal achievement beyond external recognition. Moving forward, I will strive for a more balanced and sustainable approach to my marathon training.

First Boston Marathon: Soo

[AI Generated] This post captures the author’s experience running in the Boston Marathon. The race, steeped in history, provided challenges and unforgettable moments. The author, grateful for the support along the course, faced difficulties with the unseasonably warm weather and cramping. Despite struggling, crossing the finish line held deep emotional significance. The author highly recommends the event, emphasizing its revered history and the sense of accomplishment it brings. They express a desire to return and improve their time, highlighting the camaraderie and guidance provided by the K2J group. The overall venue was rated as “Monumentally Awesome” with an “Excellent” course rating and “Great” aid stations.

DaveD Syracuse Half Marathon

AI Generated: Dave Dazé’s experience at the Syracuse 1/2 marathon was challenging but rewarding. Despite the snowy conditions, he completed the race in 1:57:11, feeling confident about his upcoming marathon. The hilly course provided a good test of fitness, and the finisher’s medal and post-race party were highlights. While undecided about participating again, he praised the efficient race organization and emphasized the event’s appeal to hill-loving runners. His advice for future participants includes preparing for varied weather and staying at a conveniently located hotel.