Run Woodstock Hippie Half Race Report

The Green Girl and Angel Runners Dawn and Jason after the Run Woodstock Hippie Half

The Green Girl ran the Hippie Half and Flippin' 5k at Run Woodstock this past weekend.

Run Woodstock is a hippie-themed weekend of peace, love, music, tie-dye, camping, and run­ning at Hell Creek Ranch in Pinckney, MI.

In addition to 5k/10k, 5 mile, full/half marathon, 50k/50 mile, and 100k/100 mile races, there were also optional activities such as hiking, hula hooping, tie dying, yoga, and even 'natural' (sans clothing) runs.

F.A.S.T. Island Angel Runners at Run Woodstock

I joined Angel Runners Boyana, Dawn, Jason, Krishna, and Timothy at this event to raise awareness and money for the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST). Dawn and Jason's daughters, Bella and Kaylee, also joined us.

FAST provides grants and fellowship programs to encourage research aimed at finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome. The organization also provides education and advocacy services.

In honor of the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics, the Angel Runners coined the term 'F.A.S.T. Island' in reference to our campgrounds.

Angel Runners F.A.S.T. Island at Run Woodstock

The Angel Runners started arriving at Hell Creek Ranch Friday afternoon. We pitched our tents and assembled F.A.S.T. Island for the weekend.

Shortly after I pitched my tent and set up my sleeping quarters, an air raid siren sounded. I quickly learned this was a tornado warning after I shocked everyone by explaining earthquakes 'just happen' in California - there is no advance warning.

A fallen tent at Hell Creek Ranch

Before I had a chance to panic at the possibility of a tornado, violent gusts of wind started ripping through the campground. Unweighted tents were violently ripped out of the ground and thrown up into the air - including the giant tent to the left of me.

I was still standing there in shock when a local fellow running blogger, Clark from Traveller's Running Log, arrived. After we determined F.A.S.T. Island was unharmed, he helped us reinforce the camp to guard against future wind storms.

The Green Girl and Clark from Traveller's Running Log in front of the still standing F.A.S.T. Island

The remainder of the day was uneventful but the Friday night Far Out 5k was cancelled due to the storm warnings.

It rained consistently through the night so we were prepared for mud when we headed out to the trails in the morning.

Boyana and Timothy's Freak 50k started at 6:00 am. Krishna's Mellow Full Marathon started at 7:30 am along with the Hippie Half Marathon which Dawn, Jason, and I were registered for.

Dawn and the Green Girl running at the Run Woodstock Hippie Half

Dawn, Jason, and I were pleasantly surprised by how much the earth had dried up by the time we headed out on a well-groomed, gravel covered dirt road.

The morning was pleasant but humid. The heavy foliage from the trees shaded us from the sun and helped keep us cool.

The Green Girl saw a deer stand for hunting for the first time

I saw a deer stand for hunting for the first time when Jason pointed one out on the course.

I also learned a new euphemism for poop - road apples. Except I kept getting confused and saying 'mud apples'.

The course was well marked with colored flags and directional signage.

Run Woodstock Aide Station Volunteer

The three of us were disappointed to discover the aide stations for the half marathon course only provided water and a lemon-lime sports drink.

Expecting more course support, the only nutrition I brought with me were EnergyBits spirulina algae supplements and a Smucker's Uncrustables from Boyana.

Halfway through the run, I decided to chew on my EnergyBits despite the instructions to swallow them whole. The taste reminded me of Japanese nori (seaweed) crackers. I quickly regretted this decision because I ended up with green residue on my lips which I managed to smear everywhere - especially my hydration bite piece.

Smucker's Uncrustable

I was absolutely amazed by the Uncrustable.

It was the solution to my quest for a sturdier portable peanut butter and jelly sandwich for long runs. The little crustless dumpling shaped pods come frozen in individually wrapped packages with just enough air to cushion the Uncrustable.

Muddy portion of the Run Woodstock Hippie Half

Once we left the main road, the course took us into the woods where we encountered the occasional mud pit. We would carefully squish along the edges and brace ourselves with each inevitable slip.

Presumably from the previous evening's windstorm, there were a number of what appeared to be freshly fallen trees on the trail.

Some sections had so many downed trees that we felt like mini hurdlers.

Angel Runners Dawn and Jason navigating the fallen trees at the Run Woodstock Hippie Half

There were a few rolling hills but the course wasn't highly technical.

The Hippie Half course crossed paths with the longer distance races so we had the opportunity to cheer on some of the Hallucination 100ers. (Unfortunately, we could not say the same for their aide stations.)

Dawn met an energetic 82 year old runner named Bob out on the course. We chatted with him briefly and then discussed how we hoped we would be in similar physical shape at that age.

Dawn and the Green Girl running in the woods at the Run Woodstock Hippie Half

My favorite portion of the course was the section through the tall trees. The dense forest shaded us from the hot sun.

Although my stomach growled and cramped with hunger, I was pleased to see the combination of the EnergyBits and the Uncrustable carried me to the finish.

After Dawn, Jason, and I completed our Hippie Half, we returned to F.A.S.T. Island and waited for Krishna to finish the Mellow Full.

Run Woodstock Mellow Full Age Grouper Krishna

We were thrilled to see Krishna received a mini Volkswagen Camper Van for placing third in his age group.

We cheered Boyana and Timothy upon their completion of the Freak 50k.

In the evening, Boyana and I headed out with our headlamps for the non-'natural' (fully clothed) Flippin' 5k.

Runners for both Flippin' 5k versions started out fully clothed (this was a family-friendly event, after all) but at some point out on the course, there was a split where the fully clothed runners veered in one direction and the 'natural' runners stripped and completed their race in the nude.

Run Woodstock Freak 50k finishers Boyana and Timothy

Boyana and I were running happily when an oncoming naked guy ran past us. Even though we were aware of the 'natural' run option on the other course, it still startled us to see a lost rogue 'natural' runner.

After completing my first ultramarathon at last year's Freak 50k, I enjoyed racing a shorter distance and having more time to participate in the Run Woodstock weekend activities.

The Green Girl at DTW on her way home from Run Woodstock

Run Woodstock was well-organized and the volunteer 'roadies' were friendly and helpful.

One thing that impressed me was the exceptional porta-potty maintenance. Some campers arrived on Thursday but even on Sunday, the porta-potties were well-stocked and not overflowing.

I want to thank Boyana, Dawn, Jason, Krishna, and Timothy for another unforgettable Run Woodstock weekend full of running, camping, and laughs. I am already looking forward to doing this again next year.

Run Woodstock Freak 50k Race Report

The Green Girl completed her first ultramarathon when she crossed the finish line of the Run Woodstock Freak 50k.

Run Woodstock was a hippie-themed weekend of peace, love, music, tie-dye, camping, and run­ning at Hell Creek Ranch in Pinckney, MI.

In addition to 5k/10k, 5 mile, full/half marathon, 50k/50 mile, and 100k/100 mile races, there were also optional activities such as hiking, hula hooping, yoga, and even 'natural' (sans clothing) runs.

Run Woodstock at Hell Creek Ranch

Fellow Sole Runner, Sarah, and I joined the Angel Runners at this event to raise awareness and money for the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST).

FAST provides grants and fellowship programs to encourage research aimed at finding a cure for Angelman Syndrome. The organization also provides education and advocacy services.

Jimmy, Jason, and Sarah setting up F.A.S.T. Island at Run Woodstock

We arrived early afternoon on Friday and started setting up our campsite.

In honor of the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics, the Angel Runners coined the term 'F.A.S.T. Island' in reference to our camping area.

Dawn and Jason's angel, Reece, even joined us for the Run Woodstock weekend, along with his sister, Bella.

Angel Reece at F.A.S.T. Island at Run Woodstock

Angel Runners Jimmy and Timothy were registered for the Hallucination 100; Jimmy was running for Reece and Timothy was running in honor of his niece, Kyla.

Sarah and I had signed up for the Freak 50k. Dawn, Jason, Jay, Krishna, and Jimmy's girlfriend Sarah, were pacers for the 100 miler. My friend, Kelsey, had a Run Woodstock Weekend Pass so she could participate in the 5k/10k and the 5 miler.

Angel Runners starting the Hallucination 100 at Run Woodstock

The Hallucination 100 started at 4 pm so all the Angel Runners followed Jimmy and Timothy to the Start Line to see them off on their 100 mile journey.

I stopped by the Run Woodstock Trading Blankets. Runners had left race shirts, magazines, sports nutrition, some homemade baked goods, and even a hydration belt. I ended up grabbing a Mulligan's Metric Marathon shirt in exchange for some snack bars.

Run Woodstock Trading Blanket

At the Run Woodstock store, I purchased one of last year's colorful long-sleeved tech shirts for $5.

At 7:30 pm, Sarah and I threw on our headlamps and headed out for the Far Out 5k. We were hoping to be able to run 3 races in the course of the weekend.

The Run Woodstock Course Map Click here for full-sized map

We cheered Jimmy and Timothy on through the night until we retreated to our respective tents to catch some shut eye.

Sarah and I set our alarms for a 5 am wake-up call for the 6 am Freak 50k and Peace, Love, and 50 Mile race start.

The 50k course followed a 16 mile loop with aid stations every 4 miles. A portion of our loop overlapped the Hallucination 100 route so we would be able to see Jimmy and Timothy out on the course.

Since this was the first time Sarah and I were going beyond the marathon distance, our plan was straightforward and conservative.

The sunrise at 6:46 am over the Run Woodstock Freak 50k

We agreed to take it easy the first loop; return to camp at Mile 16, make any necessary wardrobe changes, re-fuel, and re-group; and then head back out for the second and final loop.

Since we had the option to return to camp at the halfway point, we didn't bother with dropbags out on the course.

The sunrise at 7:28 am over the Run Woodstock Freak 50k

It was dark when we headed out into the woods for our initial loop but in the first hour the sky gradually brightened with the rosy glow of the sunrise.

The morning was cool but humid so I immediately started sweating profusely. Every few hours, I popped a couple of Succeed S! Electrolyte Caps.

Run Woodstock 'Grace' Aid Station

Every four miles, there was a well-stocked aid station with enthusiastic, friendly volunteers and options like caffeinated carbonated beverages, sports drinks, water, salt, chips/pretzels, salted potatoes, candy, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, Nutella sandwiches, and instant chicken noodle soup.

Run Woodstock 'Ritchie's Haven' Aid Station Dead Bag Zone

At 'Ritchie's Haven' Aid Station, dropbags could be retrieved and, when no longer needed, left in the Dead Bag Zone.

The porta-potties were well stocked and maintained. It was a pleasant surprise to enter a fresh, nearly empty porta-potty late in the day.

Run Woodstock 50k/100k and 50 mile/100 mile split

The routes were well marked with brightly colored flags designating the respective races.

Signs with bold lettering were also thoughtfully placed along the course. Forks in the road were marked along with big stop signs preventing you from going in the wrong direction.

Sarah, pacers Krishna and Jay, and Jimmy

The course terrain varied but the constant forest cover offered the runners a reprieve from the sun.

Some parts of the trail were hard packed single track while other portions were sandy. The loose sand aggravated my Achilles tendon bursitis so I opted to walk those sections.

Paved road portion of the Run Woodstock course

The course consisted of some rolling hills but nothing overly technical.

Between the wooded sections, there were short segments over gravel roads.

We encountered a number of mountain bikers on the gravel road who were participating in mountain biking race that crossed our course. We marveled at the faulty logistics.

Sarah and Jimmy crossing over a wooden bridge

One especially beautiful section of the course took us over a wooden bridge through bright green foliage.

As the leaves brushed my legs, I silently hoped that my cute lime green Zensah compression sleeves would protect me from any potential poison oak.

The course was also along an equestrian trail so there was an abundance of horse manure.

Muddy portion of Run Woodstock Freak 50k course

My least favorite portion of the course was a giant mud pit a few miles away from camp that could not be easily bypassed. We somehow managed to slip and slide our way across it.

When we got back to camp, I quickly chugged a glorious Dr. Pepper and ate a handful of pretzels.

Temporary rain refuge at the Run Woodstock 'Grace' Aid Station

We were saddened to learn Timothy was forced to drop from the 100 miler to the 100k after struggling to go 66.6 miles but we were proud of him for running further than he'd ever run before.

Out on our second loop, we sought temporary refuge from a brief downpour under the 'Grace' Aid Station tent at Mile 20.

Sarah running the Run Woodstock Freak 50k

When the rain let up, we headed back out onto the trail. The moisture cooled the air but added to the mugginess.

Exhaustion set in for both of us at the same time. I glanced at Mr. Orange Garmin and realized we were just short of a marathon at 26.1 miles.

The Green Girl and the Pink Girl at the Run Woodstock Freak 50k finish

Refusing to yield, Sarah and I hunkered down and did our best to maintain a steady pace.

The sun was just beginning to set as the F.A.S.T. Island crew cheered us on at the Finish Line of our very first 50k.

We received our peace symbol finisher medals with the tie-dye ribbons and Sarah received a miniature hippie Volkswagon van for placing fifth in her Age Group.

The Green 'Run Woodstock Freak 50k Finisher' Girl

Krishna, Jay, and Jason warmly congratulated us on our accomplishment.

From the finish line, I uploaded a picture of me standing proudly with my peace sign medal to my Facebook timeline and texted a copy to family and friends.

Sarah and I learned Jimmy was out on his final loop with pacers Dawn and Sarah.

I showered in the camp facilities, changed out of my muddy sweat-soaked clothing, and had some dinner before it was time cheer Kelsey at the Trip­pin’ ​10k.

This was Kelsey's first post foot surgery race so I was thrilled to see her finish strong in the top 10.

Pacer Sarah and Jimmy finishing the Run Woodstock Hallucination 100

After the Trippin' 10k, Jay, Jason, Kelsey, Krishna, Reece, and I waited near the finish for Jimmy.

We were bursting with pride when we saw Jimmy and pacer Sarah approach. We screamed and ran alongside them to the Finish Line.

For completing the Hallucination 100, Jimmy received a peace sign medal, a Hallucination 100 running hat, and a belt buckle.

Pacer Sarah, Jimmy, pacer Dawn, and Angel Reece (with Jimmy's finisher medal) at Jimmy's Run Woodstock Hallucination 100 finish

In the finish line area, Jimmy ceremoniously gave his Hallucination 100 finisher medal to Reece to symbolize the run Jimmy did for the young angel.

We accompanied our 100 mile Angel Runner finisher back to F.A.S.T. Island and gathered around the warmth of the bonfire.

Pacer Krishna enjoying his first s'more

We celebrated a Run Woodstock weekend of firsts.

Sarah and I completed our first ultra distance race. Pacer Jay, Jimmy, and Timothy ran further than they'd ever run before. Pacer Jason ran 16.6 miles in the middle of the night for the first time. Pacer Sarah did her first trail run. Pacer Dawn did her first night trail run. Kelsey completed her first post-surgery race. And pacer Krishna tie-dyed and ate his first s'more.

Kelsey at the Run Woodstock Flower Power 5 Mile Finish Line

In the morning, Kelsey headed back out for the Flower Power 5 Mile race. I had hoped to do a third race but my right Achilles was tight and I decided against navigating another 5 miles of trail.

While Kelsey raced, we packed up F.A.S.T. Island.

I want to thank the F.A.S.T. Island Angel Runners from the bottom of my heart for an unforgettable weekend of peace, love, music, tie-dye, camping, and running.

Running for Angels Virtual Summer Race Winner

The Green Girl is pleased to announce the winner of the Running for Angels Virtual Summer Race Giveaway.

There was one entry submitted via blog reply.

By default, that entry is the winner. Congratulations, LeAnn from Sole Runners!

Running for Angels Virtual Summer Race

The Running For Angels 5k race series benefits the Foundation For Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics to help fund important research for treatment for Angelman Syndrome.

Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder. Characteristic features of this condition include developmental delay, speech impairment, and problems with movement and balance (ataxia).

Angels have a happy demeanor and laugh easily. While Angels cannot speak, they do have much to say.

Many angels also suffer from epilepsy. The seizures can be debilitating and, in some cases, even fatal.

Registration for the Running for Angels Summer Race the week of August 25th is still open.

Participants have the option to complete a 5k, 10k, half marathon, full marathon, or team marathon.

Please show your support by taking a moment to 'Like' the Running for Angels Virtual Race Series on Facebook.

Running for Angels Virtual Summer Race Giveaway

The Green Girl participated in the inaugural Running for Angels Race Series Running For Angels Virtual 5k last month.

The Running For Angels 5k race benefited the Foundation For Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics to help fund important research for treatment for Angelman Syndrome.

Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder. Characteristic features of this condition include developmental delay, speech impairment, and problems with movement and balance (ataxia).

Angels have a happy demeanor and laugh easily. While Angels cannot speak, they do have much to say.

Many angels also suffer from epilepsy. The seizures can be debilitating and, in some cases, even fatal.

The next event in the Running for Angels Race Series will be a Running for Angels Summer Race the week of August 25th. Participants will have the option to complete a 5k, 10k, half marathon, full marathon, or team marathon.

For the full and half marathon, participants be given the entire week to complete the distance and will have the option to tun it all at once, or a little each day. The team marathon will consist of groups of 4 and the group will collectively run 26.2 miles.

If you would to enter to win a free race entry into the Running for Angels Summer Race for a distance of your choice, 'Like' Running for Angels Virtual Race Series on Facebook and let me know you 'Liked' it with a reply to this post.

Bonus Entries:

• 'Like' Angel Runners on Facebook and let me know with a reply to this post
• Blog about this giveaway and let me know with a reply to this post
• Share this giveaway on Facebook and let me know with a reply to this post
• Tweet about this giveaway and let me know with a reply to this post

The deadline to enter is Sunday, June 2nd at midnight Pacific Time. The winner will be announced on Monday, June 3rd.

Running for Angels Virtual 5k Race Report

The Green Girl participated in the Running for Angels Virtual 5k on Sunday, April 21, 2013.

The Running For Angels 5k race benefited the Foundation For Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics to help fund important research for treatment for Angelman Syndrome.

Running for Angels Virtual 5k at Hermosa Beach Plaza

Angelman Syndrome is a genetic disorder. Characteristic features of this condition include developmental delay, speech impairment, and problems with movement and balance (ataxia).

Angels have a happy demeanor and laugh easily. While Angels cannot speak, they do have much to say.

Running for Angels Virtual 5k at Hermosa Beach Pier

Many angels also suffer from epilepsy. The seizures can be debilitating and, in some cases, even fatal.

A virtual race is a sporting event where everyone sets their own course and runs or walks their own race wherever they happen to be on the planet.

The Green Girl's Running for Angels Virtual 5k Medal

You sign up online and run your race on the scheduled date. If you cannot run on that day, you may run it on a day that works for you.

After completing my virtual 5k in Hermosa Beach, I received a Running for Angels 5k Virtual Race medal and technical race shirt in the mail from the race director, Timothy Misiak.

The Green Girl's Running for Angels Virtual 5k Technical Race Shirt

I love how virtual races allow runners in disparate geographic locations to come together for a common cause.

I am looking forward to participating in future Running for Angels Virtual events.

LA Marathon Race Report

The Green Girl ran in the City of Angels at the LA Marathon along with Angel Runners, Jason and Timothy.

The Angel Runners are a group of runners who are raising money for the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST).

I was also running for Tumaini for the Future to raise money to provide educational opportunities for underserved school children in Moses Waweru's hometown of Nakuru, Kenya.

The LA Marathon 'Stadium to the Sea' course started at Dodger Stadium and ended at the Santa Monica Pier.



After volunteering at last year's race, I was prepared for the possibility of inclement weather. My strategy was to retain as much body heat as possible until the start of the race. I had on a couple of throwaway layers and my North Face Venture Raincoat.

Dodger Stadium

I parked in Santa Monica and boarded a 5:00 am shuttle to Dodger Stadium.

Runners huddled around the perimeter of the structure to keep warm.

When Jason and Timothy arrived, I learned porta-potties are called 'Porta-Johns' in Michigan. Crazy.

After, the Porta-John visit, we migrated towards the crowd assembled around the Starting corrals.

The Green Girl was also running for Tumaini for the Future

Once the race started, we easily merged and crossed the Starting Line.

The three of us had never run together and we had very different ability levels (I am of course the happy back of the pack Green Girl), but we managed to quickly fall into a comfortable, easy pace.

Sole Runners Coach Steve interviewing Angel Runners Jason and Timothy Video: LA Marathon 2012

A few miles in, Sole Runners Coach Steve ran by and interviewed Jason and Timothy about their LA Marathon training and fundraising for the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST).

At Mile 9, my friend, Janey, surprised us with three bottles of ice cold Dr. Peppers.

It was a beautiful day and the temperature was absolutely perfect. The course was clearly marked, well supported, and the quintessential Los Angeles experience.

Angel Runners Jason and Timothy

The conversation came easily as the miles flew by and more often than not, a remark evoked laughter.

My favorite sign said 'Your training lasted longer than Kim Kardashian's marriage.' That made me giggle.

The Dr. Peppers started wearing off around Mile 17 and the World Famous Sole Runners Mile 18 Holistic Aide Station could not come soon enough.

The World Famous Sole Runners Mile 18 Holistic Aide Station

Much to my satisfaction and relief, Jason and Timothy agreed that the Mile 18 station was everything I'd hyped it up to be.

After chugging my second glorious Dr. Pepper of the day and stuffing my face with The Green Girl's Famous Salted Potatoes courtesy of my fellow Sole Runners, I headed back out with Jason and Timothy.

Around Mile 21, I admitted I was feeling jittery from consuming two Dr. Peppers in a single day and Timothy commented that my speech had sped up considerably.

The runner who sweated Mickey Mouse

Somewhere around Mile 23, I saw the funniest thing I'd ever seen in my entire running life.

A runner a few yards ahead of us had somehow managed to sweat in the shape of Mickey Mouse head on his back. I started laughing hysterically and struggled to piece together the words to share my discovery with Jason and Timothy. I never knew I was capable of running while doubled over in laughter.

I sprinted up to him to snap a picture and other runners around us started laughing, too.

Angel Runners Timothy, the Green Girl, and Jason at the Finish Line

When we reached the Finish, we each put our hands together to create angel wings with our fingers to show our support to the angels as we crossed the mats.

We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embracing one another. Luciano de Crescenzo