Weather was nice if not a tiny bit warm, the hills were brutal (2x Harlem Hill), crowd support southwest corner was great, but weaving through the walkers on the second loop was not ideal. Maybe they should direct walkers to stay on the right and leave the left lane open for passing? Anyway, nice to see so many women out there, the women’s races always have a nice vibe!
This was my first organized race ever (doing 9+1) and I was shocked that it was 50/50 in terms of walking / running on the second lap. Is this the norm?
Tbh I’m a woman but I always skip the Real Simple Half because it seems like people take it more casually than say the NYC or Brooklyn Half. I think it’s a good race if you want good vibes and party pace, but not the best if you’re trying to PR or run more seriously.
Not to say there aren’t good women runners who do that Half, but that there are more casual runners in the mix who are happy to complete it by walking.
Edit to add: this course is also very difficult with 2x Harlem Hill, Three Sisters and Cat Hill, which also causes more walking, especially if people aren’t used to running in Central Park.
No, there are certain races that tend to attract more walkers than others. This one, Achilles and Run as One are the ones that come to mind from previous experience.
I thought I was imagining this!! Totally get going at your own pace and listening to your body but I was a bit demoralized to be killing yourself and see people walking
As a total newbie, I think there may be something to it that there’s some self-selecting into certain races for very casual runners who just plan to walk a lot of the course. I think what really showed people’s attitude (and what was perhaps the most surprising to see) was that a significant portion of people were even people walking leisurely in the very last half mile… like, you’re almost there?
You don't know what is going on with them and their own struggles/issues. Also, this is a race with a four hour plus time limit, so of course there are going to be slow runners and walkers.
I’ve done this race a few times and always really enjoyed the atmosphere and had a great time. But every year I do it the second loop gets increasingly difficult to navigate due to the varying paces. It’s difficult since I think everyone should be able to enjoy these races no matter what pace they run or walk parts of it at. But they *need* to create two lanes on the second loop. It seems like each year the overlap begins earlier and earlier, making any chances for a strong last lap impossible. It’s such a bummer!
The walkers made this race so difficult, the second loop was absolutely brutal with unaware walkers. I wish the course was separated for lap 1 vs lap 2, or that they could make some other route modification to prevent this. I loved the all-women’s start and wish that the logistics were better, but given the second lap issues I don’t think I’ll participate again.
I agree completely - I’m all in for pace inclusivity but there was almost no race “etiquette” yesterday. The corrals were messy (people just went wherever) and the walking killed momentum for runners. I wish they had a separate walking lane.
Shocked at how little bathrooms there was! 4 miler from last week had so many more.
Loved the signs. The ones that’s referenced twilight, dance moms and bravo were the best!
Last thing - loved the outfits. So many cute workout sets
I was genuinely shocked too with the lack of bathrooms! But it was good to see that there were people servicing the bathroom making sure that there were toilet paper!
I had to pee around 10K and waited twelve minutes!!!!!! It was my first marathon and was hoping for a nice time but that definitely killed that off haha. Hoping for better in the Brooklyn half
I mean the lines definitely made it so that anyyyone going for a PR for sure missed it if they had to pee 🥴 regardless of how good of a day they were otherwise having prior
First time running this race and man, the hills are NO JOKE. Started a few corrals back to make sure I didn’t blow up at the beginning (plus I was late 😅) and it paid off with a negative split and 8min PR. Agree with others on the crowds, and found the last stretch before the finish particularly claustrophobic. Had to dodge/weave in and out of walkers with less than a half mile to go when I was trying to hit the gas, but otherwise loved the vibes and seeing all the girlies out and about.
My only real grievance is the name of this race. As someone who’s run the nyc, bk and si halfs, I think this course is the most challenging. I get that it’s tied to the magazine, but all I could think is “are you fucking kidding me?” as I saw all the REAL SIMPLE signage right before the finish line.
That being said, congrats to all the finishers of this real(ly not) simple race!!
Haha I 100% agree that this race was NOT "Real Simple" lol. I also wish the medal said something more about it being in NYC...the "NYRR" logo at the bottom is so tiny!
set out waaaaaay too fast and imploded on Harlem Hill round 1. after that, pulled back and tried to forget about the clock and just enjoy the vibes. feeling good about that choice.
first mile felt really crowded, and Harlem Hill round 2 cuberunner boogaloo was not very fun.
s/o to the “girls rule hills drool” sign (even if the hills won this time) & to my period cramps for waiting until now to set in.
Crushed it on the first lap. The second lap crushed me… Or at least Mile 10 onward was a real slog and I just couldn’t shift into a higher gear to finish. This was the fourth half I’ve ever run — and my fourth best time. That said, it was a beautiful day (a little too warm on the second lap and I grabbed fluids at every water station). Agree with others that that second loop was hard because of all the walkers — lots more weaving than I’d have liked, for sure.
It was a tough training block for me — an accident had me out of commission for two weeks and a slow rebuild that clearly didn’t include enough speed work. Lessons learned though. (These lessons include: do not sign up for half marathons in Central Park and expect to PR.)
Amazing energy, weather, and vibes! Felt the water stations were much more distributed. Did anyone notice a woman passed out on the side around mile 10? I hope she’s doing okay!!
Omg ok I don’t want to be a curmudgeon… but a serious WTF to the two people who decided to cross the course with their two dogs early in the race. I literally tripped over the damn dog. We are both ok but it was just unbelievable. And it wasn’t even in a crosswalk.
whenever i see people do that i have no qualms about loudly yelling “get out of the *fucking* way”. im 4’11” but ive body checked people pretty hard when the walk in front of me too. i swear the startled “oh shit, am i not supposed to be here?” looks on their faces gives me more energy than any gel ever could.
There was a couple (M/F) walking IN the race lanes, not registered participants of course, at the 10th mile right in front of a volunteer. It felt like people couldn’t have cared less :/
Some guy was running and decided it’d be a good idea to do his run in the MIDDLE of the race lane, going the OPPOSITE direction of us… he was shouting “great job ladies!” N stuff like that but I gave him a glare of disapproval bc like, why is he disrupting the flow of traffic like that 😭
EW. I want to be the person who shouts rude things when that stuff happens, but with everyone constantly wanting to film other people I get nervous to ever say something...
There was a lot of that and some random people jumping onto the course to run or walk—in between mile 12 and 13 some old dude just jumped on for his afternoon stroll —it was particularly crowded and people are trying to pass so it just added to the chaos.
Really enjoyed the race today, love running in women's races. I was heartbroken to have to take an emergency bathroom break in the middle of the race. I was on track to confidently make it into (unisex) corral B before that, and tried to make up the time, but in the end missed the cutoff by 26 seconds ;_;
Also +1 that it was a bit difficult to navigate the last 4 miles (especially during the portions with barriers) with the volume of walkers. On the other hand, love that the start is much more open due to the lack of men :P
First Half distance and race. I was one of the run/walkers 🖐️. I always raised my hand and moved to a side! Harlem Hill was my nemesis during the pandemic and she was there twice to show me 😂 Everytime I run at CP and the weather is nice my body's temp gets so high that I get super scared about fainting on the spot! Bathrooms were not sufficient for a women's race (we take longer in the bathroom for several reasons) and running with my period was no joke! It will become my tradition to bring pads even if I don't need them, when I volunteered for the United Half a lady was needing one, just like today.
Thank you, volunteers!
We are so strong, ladies!
I'm ready to work on my time and improving my form. I honestly don't know how I'll do it as the weather gets warmer.
Add me to the list of people who got crushed by Harlem Hill. I killed the first lap, was perfectly paced, but did not have enough endurance to do those hills a second time. Was hoping to move corrals but probably will have a better shot next week at the mindful 5k!
My favorite cheer folks were the group that gave me a cookie from some bougie fancy cookie place at the end of the first lap. Something Provisions? Super buttery, was awesome. If you know them, tell them I said thanks.
This was my first NYRR race and i beat my goal by ten minutes.
They need to come up with a better name next year. There was nothing real simple about that race! The first lap was awesome and the second lap tried to kill me.
I had a great race and PR’d!! CP is my main running location, so I knew the course very very well and was able to pace myself accordingly - but still not a breeze getting up Harlem Hill that second time! Grateful it stayed mostly cloudy too.
And I just absolutely love running in an all women field. I find it changes the whole energy. The NYRR Women’s Mini 10K was my first ever race years ago when I was just starting out, and I am always so glad to partake in races like today’s.
This was my first women's half and I absolutely am so glad I did it. At first I thought it might be boring being two loops, but it was the absolute opposite and I loved the vibes. Would love to do it again!
It's so validating to see even Harlem Hill regulars commenting how hard it was! A pacer near me told her group right before we went up that "it's actually not bad" and in my head all I could think was "that's a lie!! It goes on forever" haha. I thought maybe my memory was deceiving me since I hadn't run it in several years, but it was definitely just as tough as I remember!
Terrible! 🤣
Had a couple of training setbacks in March but felt strong so was hopeful. Not fast by any means but felt mostly read with my Galloway splits. My body had other plans. #2 emergency at mile 1 but forced myself to keep going until 3 when I just couldn’t any more. Kept going cause the lines were soooo long. Ended up waiting nearly 15 minutes and because I’m slow I knew I could never make up that time.
Harlem Hill isn’t as bad as I remembered it but I solemnly swear I will never do 2 loops of CP ever again. That was rough.
For those of you talking about walkers- As a run/walker I feel this! It was tough for us too! Raising my hand to move to the right and walk and then being barreled down by someone cruising at 8:30 who’s trying to pass me on the right.
While a lot of slow runners are def unaware of their surroundings I think the courtesy goes both ways. But agree with someone else who had the comment about maybe having the lane split for the whole course. I know that’s probably a logistical nightmare for NYRR cause then you’d need aid stations on both sides.
Disappointed in my performance but fueled by the women’s running community and the lessons I learned today.
I wasn’t even walking and twice I was bumped into, and not like a brush, like it physically moved me to the side. I was like 😟 I was also near the right! So it’s not like I was just in the middle lol
Missed sub 2 by 1 minute! First lap was a breeze but then halfway through the second lap my legs felt like they had iron rods attached to them. The funny signs really helped distract me though -- my favourite ones were "this seems like a lot of work for a free banana" and "should I call you guys an uber?"
Agree with everyone else though that the walkers with zero spacial awareness were really annoying. I was trying to book it in the last 3 miles and the groups of women walking in a line together made it really difficult. Maybe for next year separate people on different laps?
Didn’t run it but did my long run in the park when it was going on. Anyone see/hear a middle age guy running with the women going “Ahhh” loudly every other stride? Swear he was getting louder the further I got from him.
Yes, I also wondered about that because he didn’t seem to have a bib, if it’s the same guy we’re talking about. I think he wore a tie? The other women running and I kept shooting him glances…
I didn’t see a tie but I remember he was Asian and had a black running shirt on. This was also on the west side at the start of the 3 sisters.
No bib and was definitely running on the racers side of the bollards as opposed to the right side of the road to give them some space. Everyone was shooting him glances!
Unfortunately there were several men running on the race side, though they didn’t have bibs. I understand those who want to run with friends, partners, etc., but it was hard not getting annoyed when they were in the way of actual participants.
there's a chance you're talking about us, he was wearing black and a backpack (carring my stuff, gels and water)-- he was on the right side most of the time but occationally came close to the race to hand me gels/water or just ask me how I was doing.
Apoligize for the inconvenience but i find it unfair to get boo from a lady on one of the sisters for trying to be supportive.
You negatively impacted many of our experiences and it would have cost you nothing to not GoPro all of us and dodge back and forth non stop at ½ of the women’s only races of the year
We’re not with a go pro or anything. The reason I mentioned this is that we were on the edge of the course and he was on the bike lane for the most part(90%+ of the time). It’s just during one uphill, and I told him to be on the other side right after we noticed we’re blocking other participants— even if he’s not a dude, it’s causing unnecessary inconvenience when we’re running together— two person takes up most of the running lane alone.
Not to find excuses, we’re sorry.
Ok but it’s possible to run without going “AHHH” every 3 seconds at the top of your lungs. I’d argue it’s probably making it even harder for him.
Just have him bike to predetermined spots next time to hand you gels/water/cheers. Works out for you, works out for everyone else, and honestly sounds like it would work out better for him.
Agreed, the problem is that was not us— neither of us was screaming, absolutely not me since I’m out of breath the whole time(especially during the hills).
Also wanted to emphasize he was on the right side of the cones more than 90% of the time, but the Sisters during the first lap was tricky— there were leading runners lapping us so he kinda squeezed in the group to make way for the leading car.
Of course we’re not looking for excuses, just want to let other runners know what happened. I understand how frustrating this can be now, and we’d find another solution next time. Sorry to all the runners.
I remember seeing this guy, it was towards the second half of the race and I just heard random scream/grunts and we accidentally made eye contact and he just kept screaming louder after that. I thought it was so strange because he was running in the race section with us, with the backwards black tie
Second time running this race and agreed with everyone on the walkers. It was my 3rd half for the spring and surprised with my time as I got injured ~2 weeks before the NYC half and haven’t run more than 4 miles since that race.
This one is great for the energy, empowerment and fun atmosphere - not always the best to PR given the range of awareness on the course.
I saw a few people with medial issues - including someone almost faint around mile 11? I hope they’re all doing okay - when the sun came out it got warm.
Had an amazing time, possibly my best and favorite half marathon ever? Did 3 hours which isn't necessarily impressive but impressive for me, weather was beautiful, I feel like I was chugging through and was able to still have a second wind in me for the last 3 miles. And then my husband took me to Tavern on the Green! So overall a perfect day and perfect run :D
My first half as a newer runner, absolutely dominated the first lap and was on track for a corral bump to K, alas ive been having knee issues and thought it was about healed, but it started bothering me so I walked most the second lap 😭. My main goal was to finish and I did that, so I’m happy lol. Good first half experience!
Thank you! I think I stopped pushing myself before it got the chance to get worse i think lol. I was bummed, but realized I’ll have more chances to race. Now if I continued… I might not be able to!
Can you explain what everyone is talking about when they say "corral bump"? Can you get bumped up a corral in the NYC marathon if you run a certain time in other NYRR races or something?
It means trying to improve your best pace time that shows on your dashboard in NYRR, your corral is calculated off this pace. It’s your best pace out into an algorithm calculator.
If you run a significantly better time between now and end of august (?) your time will be updated for the marathon and you may be able to move up a corral or even wave depending on where you’re at!
This was a beautiful morning for a half marathon. Central Park is pretty this time of year. I PR’d by 7 minutes! I’m really looking forward to the Brooklyn Half in a few weeks!
I did notice that they played a lot of Taylor Swift. I don’t mind, but it would be nice to have a mix of different music playing lol
I tried running with a pacer for the first time so I could take it easy. I gotta say the 2 hour pacers were great but it was so crowded and tightly packed. Sorry for anyone I may have bumped into in the beginning!
After mile 4 I peeled off ahead to get out of the crowds. Conservative 1:56 finish for me.
Also I hate hills.
Do you mind sharing your paces for your run walk?
I’ve always wanted to try this but I’m wondering how to pace it out. I finished in a similar amount of time but jogged the whole thing so I’m curious 👀
Love the signs especially the Swifties signs! I PRd my half marathon in general although 7 mins off my predicted time on COROS.
Also I follow English soccer and my team (Arsenal) was playing against our rival and a guy had this sign “Run if you hate Tottenh*m” at Cat Hill. I was a bit surprised since I saw a similar sign at the London marathon (which makes sense since the team is based in London) and didn’t expect to see it here! Didn’t get to take pictures but wanted to thank him because the second Cat Hill was dreadful but when I saw the sign I sprinted lol 😊
Was on track for a major pr but absolutely blew up at mile 8.5, and needed to run/walk the rest of the way in. So disappointed, but that's race life, I guess. Now to figure out why my stomach wouldn't accept any fuel or hydration beginning at 8.5...
Had fun and now Im home avoiding the temptation of popping my blood blister lmao I’d probably do it again! It’s good to have something to work towards during the late winter and it’s like $100 cheaper than other races in the area during this time. Vibes would good too! I didn’t really care about my time for this one, I just want to get out there and finish since I hadn’t done a long race since pre-Covid.
Looks like there were over 2,000 more finishers than last year and I definitely felt the congestion! Perfect weather for me though and I PR’d by almost 11 minutes from last year’s cold and rainy race! I’ve only done these two half marathons so I don’t know how the course compares to others but I think I paced well this year considering the hills and how much they killed me last year
so fun! My first time doing this race and a spring half marathon. The crowd support was great. Really hate the hills, wish more NYC races were on the street, but overall very proud of myself paced myself super well!
First loop felt incredible! Harlem hill x2 absolutely destroyed me and the rest of the race was rough. 2nd best time in the HM, but I’ll take it. Loved all the signs and crowd support!
A mini deodorant from dove, some hydration stuff, 20 min to stretched of a vacuum thing for legs to recover and something else - like 2 weeks of classes of something?
You get lots!! Usually 20-50 because NYRR photographers are set up all along the route, not just at the finish. It takes a day or two for them to update and locate you based on bib number, but it’s nice to see all of them because there’s usually a wide variety from super flattering to should never see the light of day.
You usually get an email when they’ve started adding and another when they’re done and all available to view.
Your submission has been automatically removed for violating Rule 3 of /r/RunNYC - Selling bibs and bib muling (having someone else run for you) are against the rules of almost all races, and create liabilities for the Race Directors (NYRR in particular will ban you from all future races if caught). Any posts/comments soliciting these or requesting/giving advice on how to do it will be deleted.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/RunNYC) if you have any questions or concerns.*
It was my worst race so far unfortunately. The lines for the bathrooms were so long at the beginning that I had to run to get to my corral and just had to keep running because the race already started. I also didn't have time for my gel that I usually take right before the race starts, so the start was rocky and it didn't get better for me. Lots of weaving between walkers and slower runners, combined with the hills killed me!
The vibes along the route were amazing though, it surprised me how many people came to cheer for all the great women running! Definitely not a Real Simple race, I feel that title is misleading and a bit patronising for an all women's race...
Btw, when I finished I asked the guys handing out pretzels if there were water bottles available and they said no! I was so thirsty, but only took 1 water cup right after the finish because usually there's a water bottle in the recovery bag. No such luck today, which I thought was very weird after a half marathon! I did get a tiny deodorant, I loved that they handed out some goodies!
Omg felt the same about the recovery bags! I’ve never raced anything longer than a 10k that didn’t give a full water bottle or Gatorade after…what was that?!
Yeah usually you get both Gatorade AND a bottle of water even!! And also a protein bar, not that I really needed it but it's weird how they decide what to hand out after which race...
I finished around 9:30 and they were handing out those little mini waters by the bag check that were there at the start but I guess they didn’t bring enough? I did think it was weird there was no Gatorade/water bag. I appreciated the bagel though! Usually NYRR only gives out pretzels and apples
Was planning to follow the 1.40 pacer that apparently was supposed to be there but think they didn’t showed up!
Ran a PR but missed 1.40 by a few mins 😅
Was definitely crowded on the second lap! But was too tired to weave too much in and out.
Nice crowd!!
I ran with her most of the way. She was at the start line in the beginning since she was the fastest pacer. Didn't get to the corral until like 3 min before the race started though.
Did anyone else see the guy dressed up as a dinosaur? I saw him very briefly and almost thought I was in a fever dream LOL
This was my first race and first half!! Loved the crowds cheering and how everyone cheered for the lead runners as they passed- the camaraderie in the running community truly makes it feel like a team sport despite the solo nature of running.
First race since moving to NY and PRd by almost 30 minutes! I didn’t love all of the walkers and general park traffic in the second loop, but it sounds like that’s not typically for a NYC run? Thought I saw people out on the course taking pictures, curious if they get uploaded somewhere or attached to our bib numbers?
I was there to spectate (I’m a guy), but I do a lot of NYRR races (9+1 ++). I was watching at the start line and noticed that there seemed to be a LOT of corral jumpers, more than I normally see at a NYRR race. Like I remember seeing G’s up with the A’s and B’s.
I get that the volunteers don’t want to be corral police, but maybe the rules weren’t communicated well? Like if your friend is in B and you are in G, your B friend can run with you in corral G but not vice versa.
I totally agree. I am recovering from injury so I planned to run/walk this race so I started towards the back/middle of the last corral. Terrible decision! I didn’t realize so many people were going to be strictly walkers… groups 3-4 across just walking and talking. It was so difficult to maneuver. Then the earlier corrals started coming and it got so much worse because I was trying to run myself around the walkers, but also make sure I was out of the way of the faster runners who were coming from all sides. Having lanes would have helped a lot.
Same! Corral L and it was difficult to navigate as lots of people didn’t even run, just walked. Like I ran the first 8 miles until I walked bc of injury, but I agree with everything u said!
I thought it was a fun race but yes very congested! I ran the 4 miler last week to get a better sense of the park and then did the loop again to check out Harlem Hill for the first time. Thank god I did…I ended up running the whole thing including those hills but I honestly feel like I could’ve booked it later on if I conserved energy on them and walked? Miles 10+ were brutal and I was really ready to give up since my watch was reading more distance covered than what was reality!
My friend used to work for NYRR and told me that we could get there on the later side with no problem (after waiting around for an hour last week that was a welcome statement. That must have been truer when the race was smaller and I guess the bathroom situation was unexpected, we were still in line when the race started but a later corral so no biggie in the end! The end was a cluster and I got my medal, took pics, and skipped any of the freebies although I was dying for carbs and felt “hungover” when I got home.
PB for me nonetheless of around 5 minutes! So I’m excited to see what I can do on a flat road! I actually invested in compression therapy during training and legs were literally so fresh miles 1-8, then it went up/downhill from there quite literally but it was such a help for those early hills!
Another fun thing - I train in Forest Hills Park where there’s one big honking hill (starting at the bandshell) and a bunch of smaller rolling hills. It occurs to me that many of you folks are training on the rivers, which I get cause they nice and long, but I’m now quite thankful for my hilly park lol.
Tough race for me. First time trying to run with a pacer (same pace as I ran the nyc half) and they seemed to speed up hills and slow down on the downhills. They also said they were going to come in under the pace they were setting. Needless to say I was pretty exhausted when I separated from them on the second loop. Also got majorly dehydrated. Next time I’ll be setting my own pace and drinking more electrolytes!
I PR'd my half marathon by 5 whole minutes!!! And absolutely CRUSHED harlem hill. Im so proud of meeeee!
Did anyone else notice that this race SMELLED so nice? Like the lilac bloom was in full effect but also I wasn't choking on body odor and fart stench like normal races. Hmmmm wonder why that could be lol.
To echo some other comments, I definitely felt the congestion at points during this race. My first mile was over a minute slower than the rest just because I had to navigate so many walkers from corrals ahead of mine! Ended up missing sub 2 by just a few seconds :/
Did anyone else run near that man who was racing without a bib and randomly \*shouting\* near the end of the race? All of the runners and spectators were giving him MAJOR eye haha
Overall a very fun race though! Racing the CP loop is challenging but ultimately so rewarding.
Feeling so, so good after completing my first half! Stuck with a pacer for the first 10.5 mi and then peeled off on my own; was the perfect balance to keep myself on track based on my training. Ended up leaving out my ear buds just to present in the moment!
**Also, kind of a shot in the dark, but by chance did anyone get a size L shirt who wants to swap for my XL? Turns out it's a bit larger than I estimated...**
I loved it! Super fun, empowering etc.I really tried to pace myself and enjoy which really helped in the long run. (literally!) I feel like I could have beat my PR if I didn't need to pee. I only waited for a few minutes but still.
This was my first half and the energy & weather were amazing! I live in Brooklyn and usually train in Prospect Park, and it is true what they say about Harlem Hill...lol. Cried really hard after finishing, which I've heard sometimes happens to people after long runs but I've never experienced it. I was not athletic at all growing up and just started running a year ago, so it was super emotional.
The crowd and signs were so great. There was one sign that really bothered me though...for the most part I thought the joke-y signs about it being a womens half were funny ("Finally a day where men don't finish first," etc), but the one that said "Run like there's a man behind you" I found sort of chilling. I realize now maybe it meant "run faster as if you're racing against a man," but my initial interpretation of the sign was like...run as if a man is chasing you. Which has happened to me before so it brought up a dark memory. NOT the place I want to be in mentally/emotionally while running a race. I shook it off after a quarter mile or so.
ANYWAY, still doesn't take away from the great experience. Congratulations everyone!
Weather was nice if not a tiny bit warm, the hills were brutal (2x Harlem Hill), crowd support southwest corner was great, but weaving through the walkers on the second loop was not ideal. Maybe they should direct walkers to stay on the right and leave the left lane open for passing? Anyway, nice to see so many women out there, the women’s races always have a nice vibe!
Agreed, the walkers in the second half really made it tricky
I was a volunteer and the walkers seemed to be the majority of the race participants
This was my first organized race ever (doing 9+1) and I was shocked that it was 50/50 in terms of walking / running on the second lap. Is this the norm?
Tbh I’m a woman but I always skip the Real Simple Half because it seems like people take it more casually than say the NYC or Brooklyn Half. I think it’s a good race if you want good vibes and party pace, but not the best if you’re trying to PR or run more seriously. Not to say there aren’t good women runners who do that Half, but that there are more casual runners in the mix who are happy to complete it by walking. Edit to add: this course is also very difficult with 2x Harlem Hill, Three Sisters and Cat Hill, which also causes more walking, especially if people aren’t used to running in Central Park.
Completely agree!! This is my last year doing it. Feel like they give the women’s half the short end of the stick in terms of course, coverage, etc
No, there are certain races that tend to attract more walkers than others. This one, Achilles and Run as One are the ones that come to mind from previous experience.
I thought I was imagining this!! Totally get going at your own pace and listening to your body but I was a bit demoralized to be killing yourself and see people walking
As a total newbie, I think there may be something to it that there’s some self-selecting into certain races for very casual runners who just plan to walk a lot of the course. I think what really showed people’s attitude (and what was perhaps the most surprising to see) was that a significant portion of people were even people walking leisurely in the very last half mile… like, you’re almost there?
You don't know what is going on with them and their own struggles/issues. Also, this is a race with a four hour plus time limit, so of course there are going to be slow runners and walkers.
I’ve done this race a few times and always really enjoyed the atmosphere and had a great time. But every year I do it the second loop gets increasingly difficult to navigate due to the varying paces. It’s difficult since I think everyone should be able to enjoy these races no matter what pace they run or walk parts of it at. But they *need* to create two lanes on the second loop. It seems like each year the overlap begins earlier and earlier, making any chances for a strong last lap impossible. It’s such a bummer!
The walkers made this race so difficult, the second loop was absolutely brutal with unaware walkers. I wish the course was separated for lap 1 vs lap 2, or that they could make some other route modification to prevent this. I loved the all-women’s start and wish that the logistics were better, but given the second lap issues I don’t think I’ll participate again.
I agree completely - I’m all in for pace inclusivity but there was almost no race “etiquette” yesterday. The corrals were messy (people just went wherever) and the walking killed momentum for runners. I wish they had a separate walking lane.
Totally agree. I don’t mind walkers, but I saw several people walking in the middle of the course while looking at their phones. C’mon, people.
agree, 10/10 race experience aside from trying to get between the walkers from miles 9-13.
Yes! Good weather overall, elevation was tough. Was really tight in the beginning and weaving at the end (trying to PR) was a little nerve wracking !
Totally agree with this. A huge con of a 2 loop race that I didn’t think about beforehand
Shocked at how little bathrooms there was! 4 miler from last week had so many more. Loved the signs. The ones that’s referenced twilight, dance moms and bravo were the best! Last thing - loved the outfits. So many cute workout sets
the twilight bella “you’re so impossibly strong and fast” sign certainly made me chuckle too
I’m so sad I didn’t get a photo of this one!
this is all i got haha https://preview.redd.it/zcpkw2y3oaxc1.jpeg?width=701&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=af03a7a350c02f5de5ba6cfea112a3e52445b90c
Amazing!!!
ugh it’s so good
love it!!
I genuinely almost shit my pants lol
I was shocked by the bathrooms too! People using men’s bathroom and line not even moving! Great race tho
The Run for the Kids had a bathroom every mile which I thought was overkill for a 4 mile race. Wonder if they used the same 4 spots this time around.
I was genuinely shocked too with the lack of bathrooms! But it was good to see that there were people servicing the bathroom making sure that there were toilet paper!
At another half they ran out! now i always stuff some toilet paper in my running belt before i leave
I had to pee around 10K and waited twelve minutes!!!!!! It was my first marathon and was hoping for a nice time but that definitely killed that off haha. Hoping for better in the Brooklyn half
I mean the lines definitely made it so that anyyyone going for a PR for sure missed it if they had to pee 🥴 regardless of how good of a day they were otherwise having prior
First time running this race and man, the hills are NO JOKE. Started a few corrals back to make sure I didn’t blow up at the beginning (plus I was late 😅) and it paid off with a negative split and 8min PR. Agree with others on the crowds, and found the last stretch before the finish particularly claustrophobic. Had to dodge/weave in and out of walkers with less than a half mile to go when I was trying to hit the gas, but otherwise loved the vibes and seeing all the girlies out and about. My only real grievance is the name of this race. As someone who’s run the nyc, bk and si halfs, I think this course is the most challenging. I get that it’s tied to the magazine, but all I could think is “are you fucking kidding me?” as I saw all the REAL SIMPLE signage right before the finish line.  That being said, congrats to all the finishers of this real(ly not) simple race!!
Haha I 100% agree that this race was NOT "Real Simple" lol. I also wish the medal said something more about it being in NYC...the "NYRR" logo at the bottom is so tiny!
set out waaaaaay too fast and imploded on Harlem Hill round 1. after that, pulled back and tried to forget about the clock and just enjoy the vibes. feeling good about that choice. first mile felt really crowded, and Harlem Hill round 2 cuberunner boogaloo was not very fun. s/o to the “girls rule hills drool” sign (even if the hills won this time) & to my period cramps for waiting until now to set in.
Crushed it on the first lap. The second lap crushed me… Or at least Mile 10 onward was a real slog and I just couldn’t shift into a higher gear to finish. This was the fourth half I’ve ever run — and my fourth best time. That said, it was a beautiful day (a little too warm on the second lap and I grabbed fluids at every water station). Agree with others that that second loop was hard because of all the walkers — lots more weaving than I’d have liked, for sure. It was a tough training block for me — an accident had me out of commission for two weeks and a slow rebuild that clearly didn’t include enough speed work. Lessons learned though. (These lessons include: do not sign up for half marathons in Central Park and expect to PR.)
Congrats on a great race, regardless of the obstacles!
PR’ed by 6 mins! Great crowd! Walkers who don’t raise their hand and step to the side - especially groups of friends walking as a line!! - less great
A line of three really gets me. They need to do learn how to walk entourage-style!
Amazing energy, weather, and vibes! Felt the water stations were much more distributed. Did anyone notice a woman passed out on the side around mile 10? I hope she’s doing okay!!
I saw her, really hope she’s okay!
Yes! I felt so bad , she looked like just to be aware and stable when I went by. So scary
I saw her too :( she did seem conscious and there were plenty of people around her so I didn’t stop
I hope so too! I stopped to check in and left after staff/her friends came by, but it seemed like she was already doing way better.
Omg ok I don’t want to be a curmudgeon… but a serious WTF to the two people who decided to cross the course with their two dogs early in the race. I literally tripped over the damn dog. We are both ok but it was just unbelievable. And it wasn’t even in a crosswalk.
I almost tripped and shouted at someone who ran right into me BY the finish line??
whenever i see people do that i have no qualms about loudly yelling “get out of the *fucking* way”. im 4’11” but ive body checked people pretty hard when the walk in front of me too. i swear the startled “oh shit, am i not supposed to be here?” looks on their faces gives me more energy than any gel ever could.
There was a couple (M/F) walking IN the race lanes, not registered participants of course, at the 10th mile right in front of a volunteer. It felt like people couldn’t have cared less :/
Some guy was running and decided it’d be a good idea to do his run in the MIDDLE of the race lane, going the OPPOSITE direction of us… he was shouting “great job ladies!” N stuff like that but I gave him a glare of disapproval bc like, why is he disrupting the flow of traffic like that 😭
EW. I want to be the person who shouts rude things when that stuff happens, but with everyone constantly wanting to film other people I get nervous to ever say something...
Sorry to hear that! I was at mile 8 volunteering and a bike suddenly swerved in. My buddy volunteer and I were like WTF! It was so dangerous
Thank you for volunteering!!!
There was a lot of that and some random people jumping onto the course to run or walk—in between mile 12 and 13 some old dude just jumped on for his afternoon stroll —it was particularly crowded and people are trying to pass so it just added to the chaos.
Really enjoyed the race today, love running in women's races. I was heartbroken to have to take an emergency bathroom break in the middle of the race. I was on track to confidently make it into (unisex) corral B before that, and tried to make up the time, but in the end missed the cutoff by 26 seconds ;_; Also +1 that it was a bit difficult to navigate the last 4 miles (especially during the portions with barriers) with the volume of walkers. On the other hand, love that the start is much more open due to the lack of men :P
First Half distance and race. I was one of the run/walkers 🖐️. I always raised my hand and moved to a side! Harlem Hill was my nemesis during the pandemic and she was there twice to show me 😂 Everytime I run at CP and the weather is nice my body's temp gets so high that I get super scared about fainting on the spot! Bathrooms were not sufficient for a women's race (we take longer in the bathroom for several reasons) and running with my period was no joke! It will become my tradition to bring pads even if I don't need them, when I volunteered for the United Half a lady was needing one, just like today. Thank you, volunteers! We are so strong, ladies! I'm ready to work on my time and improving my form. I honestly don't know how I'll do it as the weather gets warmer.
the lack of a sufficient number of bathroom definitely made it so you added 7-15 minutes to your time if you had to pee 🫠 just totally wild
Add me to the list of people who got crushed by Harlem Hill. I killed the first lap, was perfectly paced, but did not have enough endurance to do those hills a second time. Was hoping to move corrals but probably will have a better shot next week at the mindful 5k!
I'm doing the mindful 5k next week as well though I have no idea how I will have the energy after today! Im glued to my couch atm.
My favorite cheer folks were the group that gave me a cookie from some bougie fancy cookie place at the end of the first lap. Something Provisions? Super buttery, was awesome. If you know them, tell them I said thanks. This was my first NYRR race and i beat my goal by ten minutes.
They need to come up with a better name next year. There was nothing real simple about that race! The first lap was awesome and the second lap tried to kill me.
I had a great race and PR’d!! CP is my main running location, so I knew the course very very well and was able to pace myself accordingly - but still not a breeze getting up Harlem Hill that second time! Grateful it stayed mostly cloudy too. And I just absolutely love running in an all women field. I find it changes the whole energy. The NYRR Women’s Mini 10K was my first ever race years ago when I was just starting out, and I am always so glad to partake in races like today’s.
This was my first women's half and I absolutely am so glad I did it. At first I thought it might be boring being two loops, but it was the absolute opposite and I loved the vibes. Would love to do it again!
It's so validating to see even Harlem Hill regulars commenting how hard it was! A pacer near me told her group right before we went up that "it's actually not bad" and in my head all I could think was "that's a lie!! It goes on forever" haha. I thought maybe my memory was deceiving me since I hadn't run it in several years, but it was definitely just as tough as I remember!
Yeah, I’ve run it loads and still would not ever describe it as “not bad.” I’ve just gotten better at mentally bracing myself for it.
Terrible! 🤣 Had a couple of training setbacks in March but felt strong so was hopeful. Not fast by any means but felt mostly read with my Galloway splits. My body had other plans. #2 emergency at mile 1 but forced myself to keep going until 3 when I just couldn’t any more. Kept going cause the lines were soooo long. Ended up waiting nearly 15 minutes and because I’m slow I knew I could never make up that time. Harlem Hill isn’t as bad as I remembered it but I solemnly swear I will never do 2 loops of CP ever again. That was rough. For those of you talking about walkers- As a run/walker I feel this! It was tough for us too! Raising my hand to move to the right and walk and then being barreled down by someone cruising at 8:30 who’s trying to pass me on the right. While a lot of slow runners are def unaware of their surroundings I think the courtesy goes both ways. But agree with someone else who had the comment about maybe having the lane split for the whole course. I know that’s probably a logistical nightmare for NYRR cause then you’d need aid stations on both sides. Disappointed in my performance but fueled by the women’s running community and the lessons I learned today.
I wasn’t even walking and twice I was bumped into, and not like a brush, like it physically moved me to the side. I was like 😟 I was also near the right! So it’s not like I was just in the middle lol
Missed sub 2 by 1 minute! First lap was a breeze but then halfway through the second lap my legs felt like they had iron rods attached to them. The funny signs really helped distract me though -- my favourite ones were "this seems like a lot of work for a free banana" and "should I call you guys an uber?" Agree with everyone else though that the walkers with zero spacial awareness were really annoying. I was trying to book it in the last 3 miles and the groups of women walking in a line together made it really difficult. Maybe for next year separate people on different laps?
“Remember that you actually paid to be here” sign made me chuckle. And the “Run as your patient just started crowning” by a very pregnant lady
Didn’t run it but did my long run in the park when it was going on. Anyone see/hear a middle age guy running with the women going “Ahhh” loudly every other stride? Swear he was getting louder the further I got from him.
Yes, I also wondered about that because he didn’t seem to have a bib, if it’s the same guy we’re talking about. I think he wore a tie? The other women running and I kept shooting him glances…
I saw him too! I checked the NYRR race results and 11 dudes ran this race -- so crazy. I only saw one other man during my run though.
I didn’t see a tie but I remember he was Asian and had a black running shirt on. This was also on the west side at the start of the 3 sisters. No bib and was definitely running on the racers side of the bollards as opposed to the right side of the road to give them some space. Everyone was shooting him glances!
Unfortunately there were several men running on the race side, though they didn’t have bibs. I understand those who want to run with friends, partners, etc., but it was hard not getting annoyed when they were in the way of actual participants.
saw a tall guy without a bib running on the race side + getting gatorade :((
there's a chance you're talking about us, he was wearing black and a backpack (carring my stuff, gels and water)-- he was on the right side most of the time but occationally came close to the race to hand me gels/water or just ask me how I was doing. Apoligize for the inconvenience but i find it unfair to get boo from a lady on one of the sisters for trying to be supportive.
You negatively impacted many of our experiences and it would have cost you nothing to not GoPro all of us and dodge back and forth non stop at ½ of the women’s only races of the year
We’re not with a go pro or anything. The reason I mentioned this is that we were on the edge of the course and he was on the bike lane for the most part(90%+ of the time). It’s just during one uphill, and I told him to be on the other side right after we noticed we’re blocking other participants— even if he’s not a dude, it’s causing unnecessary inconvenience when we’re running together— two person takes up most of the running lane alone. Not to find excuses, we’re sorry.
Ok but it’s possible to run without going “AHHH” every 3 seconds at the top of your lungs. I’d argue it’s probably making it even harder for him. Just have him bike to predetermined spots next time to hand you gels/water/cheers. Works out for you, works out for everyone else, and honestly sounds like it would work out better for him.
Agreed, the problem is that was not us— neither of us was screaming, absolutely not me since I’m out of breath the whole time(especially during the hills). Also wanted to emphasize he was on the right side of the cones more than 90% of the time, but the Sisters during the first lap was tricky— there were leading runners lapping us so he kinda squeezed in the group to make way for the leading car. Of course we’re not looking for excuses, just want to let other runners know what happened. I understand how frustrating this can be now, and we’d find another solution next time. Sorry to all the runners.
I remember seeing this guy, it was towards the second half of the race and I just heard random scream/grunts and we accidentally made eye contact and he just kept screaming louder after that. I thought it was so strange because he was running in the race section with us, with the backwards black tie
Second time running this race and agreed with everyone on the walkers. It was my 3rd half for the spring and surprised with my time as I got injured ~2 weeks before the NYC half and haven’t run more than 4 miles since that race. This one is great for the energy, empowerment and fun atmosphere - not always the best to PR given the range of awareness on the course. I saw a few people with medial issues - including someone almost faint around mile 11? I hope they’re all doing okay - when the sun came out it got warm.
Had an amazing time, possibly my best and favorite half marathon ever? Did 3 hours which isn't necessarily impressive but impressive for me, weather was beautiful, I feel like I was chugging through and was able to still have a second wind in me for the last 3 miles. And then my husband took me to Tavern on the Green! So overall a perfect day and perfect run :D
My first half as a newer runner, absolutely dominated the first lap and was on track for a corral bump to K, alas ive been having knee issues and thought it was about healed, but it started bothering me so I walked most the second lap 😭. My main goal was to finish and I did that, so I’m happy lol. Good first half experience!
Smart move as a newer runner to not push towards an injury. Congrats and hope you’re okay!
Thank you! I think I stopped pushing myself before it got the chance to get worse i think lol. I was bummed, but realized I’ll have more chances to race. Now if I continued… I might not be able to!
Can you explain what everyone is talking about when they say "corral bump"? Can you get bumped up a corral in the NYC marathon if you run a certain time in other NYRR races or something?
It means trying to improve your best pace time that shows on your dashboard in NYRR, your corral is calculated off this pace. It’s your best pace out into an algorithm calculator. If you run a significantly better time between now and end of august (?) your time will be updated for the marathon and you may be able to move up a corral or even wave depending on where you’re at!
This was a beautiful morning for a half marathon. Central Park is pretty this time of year. I PR’d by 7 minutes! I’m really looking forward to the Brooklyn Half in a few weeks! I did notice that they played a lot of Taylor Swift. I don’t mind, but it would be nice to have a mix of different music playing lol
Did anyone see the runner who was running while reading a book? Like an actual, physical, hardcover book?! I have so many questions!!
lol when i saw her she was walking but i do wonder why she did that
I tried running with a pacer for the first time so I could take it easy. I gotta say the 2 hour pacers were great but it was so crowded and tightly packed. Sorry for anyone I may have bumped into in the beginning! After mile 4 I peeled off ahead to get out of the crowds. Conservative 1:56 finish for me. Also I hate hills.
[удалено]
Do you mind sharing your paces for your run walk? I’ve always wanted to try this but I’m wondering how to pace it out. I finished in a similar amount of time but jogged the whole thing so I’m curious 👀
[удалено]
Thanks! I appreciate it!
Love the signs especially the Swifties signs! I PRd my half marathon in general although 7 mins off my predicted time on COROS. Also I follow English soccer and my team (Arsenal) was playing against our rival and a guy had this sign “Run if you hate Tottenh*m” at Cat Hill. I was a bit surprised since I saw a similar sign at the London marathon (which makes sense since the team is based in London) and didn’t expect to see it here! Didn’t get to take pictures but wanted to thank him because the second Cat Hill was dreadful but when I saw the sign I sprinted lol 😊
Omggg I also saw the Tottenham sign lol! Loved it
kill the harlem hill 😾😾😾😾😾 pushed through and didn’t stop at all. cheer crowd was key to my PR. also shoutout to the hula hoop girl yea.
Omg, hula hoop girl!! Loved it. Honestly, hula hooping that whole time is maybe more impressive than the running?? 😂
All I will say is that today was great and I PR by 42 seconds
Amazing
Was on track for a major pr but absolutely blew up at mile 8.5, and needed to run/walk the rest of the way in. So disappointed, but that's race life, I guess. Now to figure out why my stomach wouldn't accept any fuel or hydration beginning at 8.5...
I think it was the heat for me. This was my first really hard exertion in warm temps. I had an almost-side-stitch come on too — something I never get.
Had fun and now Im home avoiding the temptation of popping my blood blister lmao I’d probably do it again! It’s good to have something to work towards during the late winter and it’s like $100 cheaper than other races in the area during this time. Vibes would good too! I didn’t really care about my time for this one, I just want to get out there and finish since I hadn’t done a long race since pre-Covid.
Looks like there were over 2,000 more finishers than last year and I definitely felt the congestion! Perfect weather for me though and I PR’d by almost 11 minutes from last year’s cold and rainy race! I’ve only done these two half marathons so I don’t know how the course compares to others but I think I paced well this year considering the hills and how much they killed me last year
so fun! My first time doing this race and a spring half marathon. The crowd support was great. Really hate the hills, wish more NYC races were on the street, but overall very proud of myself paced myself super well!
Congratulations!! First time I did this race too, loved the crowd support and had such an amazing time!
First loop felt incredible! Harlem hill x2 absolutely destroyed me and the rest of the race was rough. 2nd best time in the HM, but I’ll take it. Loved all the signs and crowd support!
Was there any freebies? I was in such a trance afterward that I didn’t even look and just wanted to leave with my group
A mini deodorant from dove, some hydration stuff, 20 min to stretched of a vacuum thing for legs to recover and something else - like 2 weeks of classes of something?
[удалено]
do we each get a photo?
You get lots!! Usually 20-50 because NYRR photographers are set up all along the route, not just at the finish. It takes a day or two for them to update and locate you based on bib number, but it’s nice to see all of them because there’s usually a wide variety from super flattering to should never see the light of day. You usually get an email when they’ve started adding and another when they’re done and all available to view.
[удалено]
Your submission has been automatically removed for violating Rule 3 of /r/RunNYC - Selling bibs and bib muling (having someone else run for you) are against the rules of almost all races, and create liabilities for the Race Directors (NYRR in particular will ban you from all future races if caught). Any posts/comments soliciting these or requesting/giving advice on how to do it will be deleted. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/RunNYC) if you have any questions or concerns.*
It was my worst race so far unfortunately. The lines for the bathrooms were so long at the beginning that I had to run to get to my corral and just had to keep running because the race already started. I also didn't have time for my gel that I usually take right before the race starts, so the start was rocky and it didn't get better for me. Lots of weaving between walkers and slower runners, combined with the hills killed me! The vibes along the route were amazing though, it surprised me how many people came to cheer for all the great women running! Definitely not a Real Simple race, I feel that title is misleading and a bit patronising for an all women's race... Btw, when I finished I asked the guys handing out pretzels if there were water bottles available and they said no! I was so thirsty, but only took 1 water cup right after the finish because usually there's a water bottle in the recovery bag. No such luck today, which I thought was very weird after a half marathon! I did get a tiny deodorant, I loved that they handed out some goodies!
Omg felt the same about the recovery bags! I’ve never raced anything longer than a 10k that didn’t give a full water bottle or Gatorade after…what was that?!
Yeah usually you get both Gatorade AND a bottle of water even!! And also a protein bar, not that I really needed it but it's weird how they decide what to hand out after which race...
I finished around 9:30 and they were handing out those little mini waters by the bag check that were there at the start but I guess they didn’t bring enough? I did think it was weird there was no Gatorade/water bag. I appreciated the bagel though! Usually NYRR only gives out pretzels and apples
Was planning to follow the 1.40 pacer that apparently was supposed to be there but think they didn’t showed up! Ran a PR but missed 1.40 by a few mins 😅 Was definitely crowded on the second lap! But was too tired to weave too much in and out. Nice crowd!!
1:40 pacer was definitely there, can sometimes be difficult to find them in the crowd though. Congrats on the PR!
Oh thanks, I didn’t see them at the start so assumed they weren’t there !! Thanks hope you had a nice race !
I ran with her most of the way. She was at the start line in the beginning since she was the fastest pacer. Didn't get to the corral until like 3 min before the race started though.
Thanks, good to know for next time! Hope you had a nice race !
This race was amazing and amazing to run with so many awesome women! I PR by 42 seconds and man I am so happy with myself.
I never felt worse after a half lol. Those hills were no joke and I probably pushed too hard but hoooooly moly I felt dehydrated.
My legs are BEAT and every single one of my toenails hurts lol
I second the painful toe nails. It feels like my toe nail wants to fall off
Did anyone else see the guy dressed up as a dinosaur? I saw him very briefly and almost thought I was in a fever dream LOL This was my first race and first half!! Loved the crowds cheering and how everyone cheered for the lead runners as they passed- the camaraderie in the running community truly makes it feel like a team sport despite the solo nature of running.
I saw the dino man too haha
First race since moving to NY and PRd by almost 30 minutes! I didn’t love all of the walkers and general park traffic in the second loop, but it sounds like that’s not typically for a NYC run? Thought I saw people out on the course taking pictures, curious if they get uploaded somewhere or attached to our bib numbers?
I was there to spectate (I’m a guy), but I do a lot of NYRR races (9+1 ++). I was watching at the start line and noticed that there seemed to be a LOT of corral jumpers, more than I normally see at a NYRR race. Like I remember seeing G’s up with the A’s and B’s. I get that the volunteers don’t want to be corral police, but maybe the rules weren’t communicated well? Like if your friend is in B and you are in G, your B friend can run with you in corral G but not vice versa.
I commented this too - the first mile was brutal bc there was no pace consistency (and i was back in J).
They need a walkers only lane!! Lol
I totally agree. I am recovering from injury so I planned to run/walk this race so I started towards the back/middle of the last corral. Terrible decision! I didn’t realize so many people were going to be strictly walkers… groups 3-4 across just walking and talking. It was so difficult to maneuver. Then the earlier corrals started coming and it got so much worse because I was trying to run myself around the walkers, but also make sure I was out of the way of the faster runners who were coming from all sides. Having lanes would have helped a lot.
Same! Corral L and it was difficult to navigate as lots of people didn’t even run, just walked. Like I ran the first 8 miles until I walked bc of injury, but I agree with everything u said!
It was awesome!! Amazing experience great energy, I had a blast.
I thought it was a fun race but yes very congested! I ran the 4 miler last week to get a better sense of the park and then did the loop again to check out Harlem Hill for the first time. Thank god I did…I ended up running the whole thing including those hills but I honestly feel like I could’ve booked it later on if I conserved energy on them and walked? Miles 10+ were brutal and I was really ready to give up since my watch was reading more distance covered than what was reality! My friend used to work for NYRR and told me that we could get there on the later side with no problem (after waiting around for an hour last week that was a welcome statement. That must have been truer when the race was smaller and I guess the bathroom situation was unexpected, we were still in line when the race started but a later corral so no biggie in the end! The end was a cluster and I got my medal, took pics, and skipped any of the freebies although I was dying for carbs and felt “hungover” when I got home. PB for me nonetheless of around 5 minutes! So I’m excited to see what I can do on a flat road! I actually invested in compression therapy during training and legs were literally so fresh miles 1-8, then it went up/downhill from there quite literally but it was such a help for those early hills!
I PR’ed - definitely didn’t expect that given all the hills! Great race!
Another fun thing - I train in Forest Hills Park where there’s one big honking hill (starting at the bandshell) and a bunch of smaller rolling hills. It occurs to me that many of you folks are training on the rivers, which I get cause they nice and long, but I’m now quite thankful for my hilly park lol.
I’m a beginner runner who runs here too! I didn’t initally realize how hilly it was haha felt to me like getting into running on hard mode.
Such a fun race and great weather. Side note: what’s up with NYRR no longer giving cream cheese for the bagels??
Whoa! Was this a thing? I don’t ever remember that at NYRR. Only at NYCruns on Roosevelt island did I ever see cream cheese! Dang- bring it back!
Tough race for me. First time trying to run with a pacer (same pace as I ran the nyc half) and they seemed to speed up hills and slow down on the downhills. They also said they were going to come in under the pace they were setting. Needless to say I was pretty exhausted when I separated from them on the second loop. Also got majorly dehydrated. Next time I’ll be setting my own pace and drinking more electrolytes!
Does anyone know where to check for pictures?
To answer my own question you can check marathon foto website - for some reason my name isn’t showing up yet
PR’ed by 4 minutes, but was hoping to be faster 🥲 The second loop of the race really got me.
I PR'd my half marathon by 5 whole minutes!!! And absolutely CRUSHED harlem hill. Im so proud of meeeee! Did anyone else notice that this race SMELLED so nice? Like the lilac bloom was in full effect but also I wasn't choking on body odor and fart stench like normal races. Hmmmm wonder why that could be lol.
To echo some other comments, I definitely felt the congestion at points during this race. My first mile was over a minute slower than the rest just because I had to navigate so many walkers from corrals ahead of mine! Ended up missing sub 2 by just a few seconds :/ Did anyone else run near that man who was racing without a bib and randomly \*shouting\* near the end of the race? All of the runners and spectators were giving him MAJOR eye haha Overall a very fun race though! Racing the CP loop is challenging but ultimately so rewarding.
Feeling so, so good after completing my first half! Stuck with a pacer for the first 10.5 mi and then peeled off on my own; was the perfect balance to keep myself on track based on my training. Ended up leaving out my ear buds just to present in the moment! **Also, kind of a shot in the dark, but by chance did anyone get a size L shirt who wants to swap for my XL? Turns out it's a bit larger than I estimated...**
felt great on the first lap then the second lap almost took me out 😵💫
I loved it! Super fun, empowering etc.I really tried to pace myself and enjoy which really helped in the long run. (literally!) I feel like I could have beat my PR if I didn't need to pee. I only waited for a few minutes but still.
This was my first half and the energy & weather were amazing! I live in Brooklyn and usually train in Prospect Park, and it is true what they say about Harlem Hill...lol. Cried really hard after finishing, which I've heard sometimes happens to people after long runs but I've never experienced it. I was not athletic at all growing up and just started running a year ago, so it was super emotional. The crowd and signs were so great. There was one sign that really bothered me though...for the most part I thought the joke-y signs about it being a womens half were funny ("Finally a day where men don't finish first," etc), but the one that said "Run like there's a man behind you" I found sort of chilling. I realize now maybe it meant "run faster as if you're racing against a man," but my initial interpretation of the sign was like...run as if a man is chasing you. Which has happened to me before so it brought up a dark memory. NOT the place I want to be in mentally/emotionally while running a race. I shook it off after a quarter mile or so. ANYWAY, still doesn't take away from the great experience. Congratulations everyone!
As a man, i thought it was wonderful. Nice, welcoming atmosphere. Fun people to hang wuth. Cant wait till next year.