2016 Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon

July 15-17

Friday Fly

Last year was my first time in Chicago. I learned quite a lot from that trip. Always nice to go back to a familiar place. Applied lessons learned from last year. Hotel closer to start and finish area near the loop where there are more interesting places to visit. Pre-purchased CTA 3-day pass, so that I would not have to use the machine.

I had some troubles checking in for my flight the day before due to some server issues, and ended up with boarding position B-47 on Southwest Airlines, at least I got TSA Pre-✔. Flight scheduled to land in Chicago at 1:20pm. As I was posting my departure, one of my running friends in Oakland also posted she was leaving, but would land at 1 pm before my flight. The 3 hour flight would likely mean I would have to use the restroom, so I picked a center seat near the front of the plane where an older couple sat. The lady on the aisle seat graciously move to the center, so I was able to sit on the aisle. More treats on the longer flight, and something new, Plane Cookies. I was surprised that the plane landed without going over Lake Michigan like last year. I suspect the lake route was a holding pattern. Much cooler weather this year than last. Only around 77°F when the place landed around 1 pm. There was some medical emergency with one of the passengers less than a hour before we landed, so we had to wait as several EMT boarded and escorted the passenger out, who walked on his own, so I guess the problem wasn't too severe.

I messaged my friend, who was still in the terminal, so we met up and took the CTA Orange line train into Chicago together. Her first time in Chicago, so it was nice to share my knowledge. Got to my hotel at the Best Western Grant Park, which was just a few blocks from the Roosevelt station. Another Elvis friend (RW) was also coming to Chicago, so we met up for lunch at the Potbelly Sandwich Shop (a chain restaurant, but not on the West Coast) before we headed over to the Expo on the Green Line train. The exit station at Cermak is just under ½ mile to the entrance at McCormick Place. Other riders are also headed there, and since we wore our Rock 'n' Roll shirts, everyone was followed us. I knew the way pretty well from last year, when I stayed at the Hyatt which was adjacent to the Expo. The Expo was at the West building, same as last year, which is the furthest away from the entrance. We changed into Elvis just before we entered the expo area around 4 pm. As in Seattle, two Elvi stand out better than just one. Not as crowded on a Friday, and didn't bump into many runners that I knew. Expo closed at 7 pm, but we were able to get a Toyota Ride 'n' Drive in before closing time. The drive actually took us on part of the race course.

The Bus route 3 stop was right in front of the building exit, and we saw the bus boarding, and rushed over to get on. Pretty packed, but it's a Friday evening, so prime commuter time. The bus goes right along Michigan Ave, the main street where most places to eat are located. If we took the train, there would be an addition ¾ mile of walking. Dinner at Shake Shack which my friend had never been to. I skipped the fries and got a Peanut Butter flavored shake, that was good and thick. Sunset around 8:30 pm, so we explored Millennium Park and the Giant Bean. I felt like a local, since I knew where everything was. The Crown fountain was working which was non operational last year. The face projections made for some interesting pictures. On occasion, water would spout out at the area where the mouth was located, and the pursed lips on the face would make it look realistic. About a mile walk back to the hotel so that I could see some more of the city at night, which I did not experience last year. In bed around 10 pm. Total walk distance about 6 miles.

Saturday 5k

Alarm at 5am, but I woke up at 1:30, way too early, so I went back to sleep. The alarm woke me up, which usually doesn't happen on race morning. Race start 7:30 am, but it took a while to get ready. Blue Elvis, blue guitar, with some additional colorful flower leis. I left my hotel after 6:30, and there were already several runners walking toward the start. New course this year, more or less an out and back loop. The thing I noticed the most was it was way cooler at start time than last year (76°F, 77% humidity) at a nice 66°F. 1114 official finishers. Another Elvi (RL) whose flew in late last night met us at the start. The Gear Check was way down on the other end, so I had to leave the group for a few minutes. Quick photo with the race announcer Ann Wessling (it's kind of a tradition now), then off to crowded corrals. I forgot to put my #barefootelvis sign on my back, so I had to let people know where to post verbally. The first mile of the course was actually part of the course for tomorrow. The route continued south on Lake Shore Drive about 30 meters from the lake. Last year the course when on Lake Shore trail, right next to the water's edge. We ran on the sidewalk, which was great for my feet. Someone recognized me from last year even though I was wearing a different outfit. The naked feet kind of makes me easy to remember. Mostly cloudy skies keep the temperature in check, but by finish it was 70°F, 65% humidity. My Elvis friend (RL, also from San Diego) ran with me the entire way, even though he's a faster runner. He was carrying a speaker and played some Elvis tunes on our run. The faster Elvi (RW) met up with us after the finish. The long trek to gear check, then our gang made our way to Millennium Park. My friend I met yesterday spotted me, and we sang "It's not or Never" to her using the music to keep us in sync. More pictures at the Giant Bean, then off to eat breakfast. I searched for a place to eat, and there was one across the street. Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe got great ratings, but there was a 1½ to 2 hour wait. While waiting, my wig started to bother me, so I used the restroom to change into normal clothes. One of the other Elvi (RW) did the same. The last Elvi (RL) didn't bring a change of clothes. Food was excellent, worth the wait, but by the time we were done it was after noon.

On the walk back to hotel, stopped for a picture at the Chicago theater, then saw this cool looking building that was the Harold Washington Library. I would have explored some more, but my battery on my phone was getting low. Quick shower, social media posting, then a short nap while my phone recharged. With the time already 3 pm, no time to go back to the expo. My Chicago friend had several recommendations for places to eat. Unfortunately we would not be able to meet this year. Another group of runners planned a dinner off on the north west side of Chicago. I had planned to sleep early, so I found a nice place on Michigan Ave about 2 miles away, and went with one of my Elvis friends (RW). Bus route 3 north to The Purple Pig on the other side of the Chicago river. I've actually never explored this side of Chicago except during last year's run. We arrived at 6 pm, and there was an hour wait. Everything on the menu looked great. Roasted Bone Marrow with Herb Salad and Bread, Fideo Pasta (Shrimp, Clams, Veal & Basil Aioli), Smoked Pork Tongue with Tonnato Sauce & Salad Olivier, Peas & Bacon with Coffee infused Buttermilk & Apricot, Soft serve Ice Cream (Butter Pecan & Salted Caramel swirl), Pistachio Cake (Maple syrup Nougat Glace & Cherry). About $40 per person.

One of my costume running friends dressed as a large bag of Garrett popcorn for the morning 5K. I knew about Garrett popcorn last year, but did not have enough time to purchase any. One goal this year was to bring home a bag. There was a shop a few blocks away, so even though it was late, I figured I better get it now before I don't have any time later. As we turned the corner to the entrance, we could smell the popcorn. I also saw a huge line of about 50 people. My Garrett costume friend told me there are several shops around Chicago, so no popcorn tonight. Sleep at 11 pm. Total walk distance 6 miles, not including the 3 mile run.

Sunday Half

Alarm at 4 am. Woke up at 2 am, but could not go back to sleep. Out of bed at 3:30am. There had been a chance of thunderstorms forecast on Sunday all week. Each day the chance shifted more towards the after noon. White Elvis with a red scarf and red guitar. I remembered my #barefootelvis sign on my back. I forgot my flower leis, but as I would find out later, that was a good thing. Left the hotel around 5 am. More people at the race, so I needed to get there earlier. Gear check was in the same place as yesterday's 5K, way in the back. A few photos at the start, and more photo ops with other runners. The 10K (2520) also started with the Half Marathon (11052) runners. I started in corral 3. The 10K runners split off just after ½ mile. Elvi (RL) stayed with me for first few miles, until we hit the first bridge crossing over the Chicago River. It was actually kind of nice to run with someone, you always have a photographer. First stop was an overlook at the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel (from quite a distance), which is what the finisher's medal is modeled from. Next stop Trump Tower, just because it was there. On to lower Wacker Drive (under Upper Wacker Dr), which I know is going to mess up my GPS signal. As we turn right on Columbus, toward the first river crossing, I mentally prepared myself.

When I saw the metal grate bridge crossing the first time last year, I did not even attempt to step on it. At the last of 4 crossings, I had to experience what it felt like, but after 2 steps, I jumped on the sidewalk. I've experienced other metal grate crossings since then, but not as widely spaced. I slowed to a walk, and told my Elvis (RL) friend he could go ahead, since I would be taking my time. 11 slow steps, and that was enough, on to the sidewalk. It didn't really hurt, but did not feel great (pun intended). Next opportunity in another mile, but a concrete barrier separated the sidewalk from the street. Last year I tiptoed on the base of the barrier to avoid the grate. I was determined to make it across, though at a slow walk, and videoed the entire thing. It was such a confidence builder after I completely made it across. I had gotten used to the feeling of the grates, and knew I could make the next two without damage. The medal grate is not continuous, there's a concrete fill break in the center section, 40 steps, break, 40 more steps. I took advantage of the short restroom lines just after mile 2. Around mile 3, I noticed my watch was stopped, not just paused where I can resume, but stopped with the only option to upload. I started the watch again after the upload, but lost some data points.

A few stops to video some music along the course, some drums (note Mike Ditka of the Chicago Bears in the back on the platform), a jazz band, and a pop band. As we headed down State Street, I could see the Chicago Theater sign coming up. I should have stopped last year for a photo op, but this year I was determined. Just before we approached the sign, we turned right on Lake Street. WTF, I clearly remember passing directly in front last year. Turned out there was a last minute course change, and instead of right on Randolph (pass the theater) we turned earlier. I wasn't going to let this opportunity pass me by, and I was less than a half block away. I asked one of the spectators to take my picture, which actually is nicer without anyone else around. The next two river crossings are a bit shorter at mile 3.1 & 3.8, but I still walk over them. Maybe next year I can run over them, as long as it does not rain. Wet skin is more fragile, so I would use the sidewalk if my feet were wet. As we headed down State Street, I realized this is where I walked yesterday. Passed by the Library, yet again, and under the "L" train tracks. Trains are still running, and you could hear and see them as we are in the heart of the Loop, a 6 x 3 rectangle where all the trains converge.

I pretty much ignored my watch, since the unscheduled pause made it inaccurate. With the cooler temperature and slight breeze, I was quite comfortable. As we exited the tall building downtown area and south on Michigan Ave, I passed by my hotel, though I didn't realize it until a block later. We are about half way done now, south a few miles, turn towards the lake, then back north to the finish. The wind gusted quite strong at times (20 mph). There were mostly clouds all morning, but you could kind of feel a little moisture in the air. The ½ mile out and back at mile 9 was fun last year, but the road surface was slightly rough. The street was recently repaved, nice and smooth. I saw my Elvis (RL) friend just a few minutes in front of me. I also saw another barefoot runner behind me, I found out later he used the sidewalks over the river. I guess I'm crazy, even for a barefoot runner. As we turned left on Fort Dearborn Drive, headed north, it was welcome to have the wind at our backs. I think it was around that time when I heard some thunder in the distance. The announcer at the band stage told us that we may have to take cover if things got worse. My fellow Elvis (RL) waited for me, and we headed together through the West tunnel of McCormick place. Near the end of the tunnel there were the colored lights and RnR logo projection common on the race series. The thunder got louder after we exited, and there were hints of lightning as the brightness in the sky changed intensity, but there was about a mile left in the race. As we went to the underpass at Lake Shore, there was an announcement that the race was postponed, and that we should take shelter. The underpass was probably the last refuge for shelter before the finish, but everyone was still running, so I just picked up the pace. The rain started slowly, then more thunder. The ground got wet, then I raised my arms up in the air, "Let it rain!", I exclaimed. And the rain came down, other runners sarcastically thanked me, which I replied "That's the power of Elvis". I felt a bit sorry for my Elvis friend, and anyone else (mostly everything else) who wore shoes. About ¼ inch of rain fell in just 10 minutes. My costume was completely soaked, even more than DC last year, or so it felt like it. I wore several layers in DC, so I never got very wet. Very few people around at the finish, I guess most took shelter and had not returned. No photographers, and only a few volunteers handing out metals. Water, Gatorade, and bananas, but no chocolate milk or energy bars. A wet Elvis costume is not comfortable, especially next to my skin. No big crowds to follow, so I was a bit disoriented, and but finally found my way to the finish/concert area. The concert was also postponed, and most of the people were sheltered under the trees (not recommended in a thunderstorm) and booth canopies. Gear check bags were on the ground, so they got soaked as well. Few people at the Heavy Medal booth where I picked up my Six String and Remix Challenge. I brought my 5K medal, so I would be able to get a picture with my weekend take. I had a change of clothes, but only shorts, and I'd likely get my dry clothes wet. I headed back towards my hotel, and the rain finally stopped. The announcer say the concert would resume soon but I just wanted to get back and change. Arrived at the hotel around 10 am, as people were starting to come out again.

I thought I had uploaded my data from my watch, but maybe the thunderstorm caused a problem. If you fail to upload immediately, you don't get a second chance. No record for 16:41 minutes. Start race at 6:31 am, 2.13 miles (30:51), splits 12:27, 16:31, 14:18 (pace). Next start at 7:19 am, 9.56 miles (2:12:12), splits 20:51, 13:45, 12:25, 13:28, 13:52, 12:47, 14:40, 14:01, 11:23. Official finish 2:59:44, which beat last year's time of 3:20:47. 68°F, 63% humidity at the start. 70°F, 84% humidity at the finish. Hard to compare times, since the weather last year made the race more of a survival run. At least I knew I would not need my backup sandals, since Chicago streets are not too bad. Packing wet clothes in luggage didn't seem like good idea, so I used the hotel hair dryer to get more of the moisture out. The red scarf ended up staining my pants slightly.

Brunch at Yolk (another chain, which started in Chicago, now with 5 locations, and other cities, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Indianapolis), which was right next to my hotel. An hour wait, but plenty of room to sit down on the floor. Good food, good service. I had a few hours before I needed to take the train to the airport, so I visited the Harold Washington Library which would be my third time at the building this weekend. Found a Garrett popcorn shop a few blocks away, and decided to go there before the airport. Surprised to find no line. There are 8 locations in Chicago downtown area, and they also have locations in other cities, Dallas, DC, Atlanta, Vegas. I'd probably stick to purchase only in the original origin city, though the popcorn does taste really great. I got a medium bag of the Cashew CaramelCrisp^®, due to my limited luggage space. Not as familiar with the trains in the loop, but I saw some stairs down to the subway at the Monroe station, where I purchased a ticket for $3. The only options at this station are the Red and Blue lines, since I was in the middle of the loop. I hopped on the Red Line to get to the side of the loop, where I could connect to the Orange to the Midway airport. I have a TSA Pre-✔ so I did not have to wait long. I had about an hour, and used the time to post pictures, and catch up on my friends posts. The plane was on time, and I had boarding position B-18. The long leg room seat (there are only 2 on Southwest in the exit rows) was available, so I grabbed it. One thing nice about landing in Las Vegas coming from the east was a great view of the Grand Canyon, since the approach brought the plane in at a lower than cruising altitude. This was the first time I had to switch planes on Southwest, and I only had an hour. I've only been to the Vegas airport once, and the plane landed at Gate B, my next flight was Gate C. There are moving walks, but the distance to my boarding gate was quite long. I needed a Restroom stop, and it didn't look like I would have time to eat anything. By the time I got to the gate, most people have boarded. I tried to bring up my boarding pass on my phone, but realized I didn't download it. I had to get a pass at the check-in counter. I was pretty much the last person to board, even the people in front of me were standby passengers. Not many places in the overhead. I found a slot above aisle 15, but there are no more seats in back of that. I worked my way back up, and found a seat in aisle 14, close, but I'd have to work fast to get my bag once the place lands. The center seat was open in a row where a couple was seated, and lady moved over, so that I would get the aisle. Total walk distance 8 miles, not including the 13 mile race. Lesson learned, if you have to transfer planes, make sure you get the second boarding pass. I've had stop overs before, but always stayed on the same place, so no additional boarding pass required. Short flight back from Vegas, pretty uneventful.