Fitness with Aliya

My 25th Half-Marathon is in the books. I participated in the Gazelle Girl Half-Marathon/5k/10k. This is an all women's race that took place in Grand Rapids, MI. It wasn't about me though. It was about helping others meet their goal. It was my 4th time pacing a race. Pacers are  individuals  who help others reach their race time. While many first-time half-marathoners should only focus on finishing, many runners set expectations to complete races at a particular pace. Pacers line up according to the time order they will complete the race. Seeing women meet their goals, make their dreams come true...THAT'S S.T.A.R.S. POWER! I was so thankful to  my S.T.A.R.S. FAMILY FOR THE 25th Commemorative medal! 

State #13 Half #24. Done! Kentucky Conquered! This was my first race with the Mainly Marathons Race Series. Not what I expected at all. I really enjoyed myself. The people were so welcoming and inviting. It is also known as the rubber band series race. You collect rubber bands each time you pass a loop. The course is open to 5k-10k-half-marathon, full-marathon, and 50k racers. The rubber bands helped my mind. The route was scenic for me. I'm good on those Hills but I needed them because I hadn't been running. So thankful it didn't feel like 73 degrees. It was so shady. I wish I knew to bring night lights for the early start and to investigate getting a spot on the campground instead of the hotel 38 miles away. However, I don't even OWN A RV!! 😂😂😂😂 😂  I loved the history on the route. If you are considering a Mainly Marathon race, check them out, they are all over the U.S. catering to 50 staters! Happy Running. Stay Smiling. Love. Laugh and Repeat! ...