I went to my first informational meeting about being part of Team Challenge yesterday and decided…read morethat YES I will do this! I am very excited about raising money towards Crohn's and Colitis and running on behalf of everyone that has been affected for my first Half Marathon in Napa on July 18th. Team Challenge has only been around for a couple years and they are similar to Team in Training but raising money for a different cause. I found out about them because I got a flier at the Chinese New Year Run in Chinatown SF in February of 2010 and I was thinking.. okay if I'm going to do a half marathon I should train for it. Yes you have to raise money but you get your own website to send to people, they help you fundraising ideas, sending letters, etc. Also you have weekly runs so you can build up your tolerance to run or walk that bad boy marathon! Crohn's and Colitis is a disease that many people are aware of yet if you bring it up someone knows someone that was affected it. We need to run in order to find a cure! Here is my page where I am raising money for. 2600 by July 2010! http://www.active.com/donate/napa10norcal/napa10ARatana I encourage you to run with me or become a donor! Every little bit helps! Everyone that I've met at Team Challenge has been so nice. I am excited for the training and meeting more people!

Joined Team Challenge last year after picking up a pamphlet at the end of the Kaiser race -- I just…read moredid the 5km because that was all I could manage at the time. But with the support and advice from Team Challenge I pushed through training - and was wonderfully surprised that it wasn't that hard and that your body really is amazing - and did 2 half marathons last year. Enjoyed it so much that I am back again this year - as a mentor - hope to see you all out on the track!

I attended the recruitment week for the triathlon club a few weeks back at their swim event at…read moreAquatic Park. I met a few of the club members and they were all kind. There were a few announcements made by the swim director Aimee before she requested all newcomers to come up to the front. I was the first one to the front and greeted her, only to be completely ignored. As moments passed, several other individuals showed up and were promptly greeted by Aimee. She conducted her quick safety briefing and offered advice and the opportunity for pairings for those individuals. However, when I again greeted her and let her know that I was interested in joining the club, I was met with a look and tone of annoyance. It was comical how quickly her tone negatively shifted when she had to interact with me. I explained that I came from a competitive swim background, and her only response was to jump into the water. No offer for open water swim advice or partner pairings like she did with everyone else. I did a quick swim and wanted to ask a few more questions about the club and was blatantly ignored by Aimee once again. It's quite ironic how she praises the value of community, generosity, and support in the club on the website, and yet, as a leader within the club, she displays the complete opposite. Sports such as triathlons and biking have all had a history and stereotype of being exclusive, and unfortunately, this group has selected a leader that further perpetuates this negative stigma. Aimee isn't a complete reflection of the club and their values as she is an individual, but I do want others to be aware of my experience when exploring or looking for a community

I'd have to agree with Isla and J.G.'s reviews. It shocks me how almost mindlessly fawning the…read moremajority of reviews for GGTC are, almost like cultish brainwashing. I've been a high performer in sports all my life, and have therefore seen the worst and best of the jock lifestyle. GGTC is more clique-ish and shallow than even high school sports. They will talk a good game and coax new members in with backslaps and promises of comradery. But, just like grade school, you have to hit some magical combination of perceived coolness to actually be accepted. To prospective members: Do you seriously want to be a part of that immaturity? One example happened the very first week I joined. I went on a general long-distance road cycle organized by GGTC. The event leader was Ellison Wada. (Yes, you are going to be called out when you behave churlishly.) I spoke with him about the Marin Century Ride and mentioned I had registered for it. He answered my questions about what the course was like, and vaguely mentioned that some GGTC members would be riding in it. Never mentioned who they were, and his body language and evasive speech made it clear I was not welcome to join that contingent. So, as a new member to GGTC and a new transplant to San Francisco, I was left to do the century alone. What a great feeling that was as someone trying to establish themself in an unfamiliar place. Come the day of the century, about halfway through the ride, I see Ellison and about eight other GGTC members at a rest station. So even though this sad boy was part of that contingent, he purposely withheld that fact because he didn't want me to join them. And no, neither he nor GGTC can make the excuse that I would have had trouble keeping up. I kept up with the faster riders during the previous group event, and during other rides, consistently outpaced members who trained 3x more than I did. Furthermore, I actually caught up to the GGTC contingent during that Marin Century, even though I started an hour later than they did. Note that this was my first century ever, and I still caught up to them. Maybe the club needs to rethink if it's really as hot as it believes, and reconsider its training programs, if a newbie can easily achieve that without any support. It's pretty sad to see grown adults -- many of who were never-beens when they were younger and are trying to desperately capture some semblance of glory in their twilight years -- behave that way. I couldn't stand being around a group of people I felt nothing but contempt for, and left in disgust several months after joining.

Ran this race over 20 times. It's a fun way to celebrate Chinese New Year and the YMCA…read moreorganization. But my one complaint is with the new policy change by the MUNI system. They allowed a bus to come down just before the race. Everyone had to clear the way. Than as a runner, traffic police were stopping runners to allow traffic to clear. As a fast runner in training to PR, this is not what we paid for. It may be a fundraiser for walkers only if they keep up this policy. Art 62yrs

This is the run that I do for the children. Not like, on behalf of children of the world, but the…read morechildren out on the course with me. I, apparently, serve as the person they don't want to fall behind. Stride-wise, I take after my grandma. She would have a nice hearty start and a slow but steady jog after about a mile. I don't really train, so that is my running style. There are a lot of kids on this run. And it is my goal to keep up with them. They, apparently, try to make sure I don't. If you like to see kids best an old gal while also helping raise money for the local YMCA, this is your run. Super festive, scenic, and very cool lunar new year themed medals upon finishing.

Although the SF Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is held every July, I delayed my review since I wanted…read moreit to be extra special. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, as today marks the first of October (my fav month), and most importantly - National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Oh, and it's also my 200th review. The annual Avon 2-day Walk is held in major cities like SF, Chicago, LA, and NY. Breast cancer survivors and supporters unite together to walk 39 miles with the goal of ending breast cancer. The SF Walk begins and ends at Golden Gate Park. It's the best walking tour of SF, as it goes through different neighborhoods (Richmond, SOMA, Marina, etc.,) and even crosses the Golden Gate Bridge. The money raised goes to breast cancer screening, support, treatment, and research. I know many who've participate as walkers, but had no idea of its impact until my first experience in 2006. A dear friend and her sister drove up from LA to walk. There was a swarm of pink (walkers in pink tops, caps, etc.,). I was floored at not only the thousands of walkers, but also the ginormous numbers of family, friends, and volunteer supporters. In 2008, I decided to Volunteer, and woke up uber early on a Saturday to help with Opening Day ceremony set-up at 4:30AM in Golden Gate Park. I was basically the "Water Girl," and unpacked boxes of water, placed cups on the table, poured water into them, and repeated over and over again. It was tiring, but worthwhile to interact with the walkers, and to see and hear their inspirational stories. They were so appreciative of the volunteers. This past July, I volunteered again for Opening Day ceremony set-up. A close friend decided to brave the early, dark, cold, damp morning in GG Park to volunteer with me. It was so beautiful to see the fog roll in and the sun rise. Anywho, our assignment was the glorious "Trash duty." The Volunteer Coordinator hand selected 4 people to empty the trash and recycling receptacles (and of course, replace the bags). We took it in stride, and considered it an honor to be chosen, and called ourselves,"Team Trash for the Tatas!" Oh Mylanta! It was exhausting, and let's just say that I have a new found respect for garbage collectors. It was another wonderful and humbling volunteer experience. However, next year, I will walk! Breast cancer hits home, as I've had family and friends diagnosed with this awful disease. Awhile ago, I found a lump in my right breast after giving myself a self-exam. Given the history of breast cancer in my family, I didn't want to take any chances. Even though I'm not in my 40s (age where women should have their mammograms done annually), I got mine immediately performed, along with an ultrasound and even a biopsy. It was scary, and am so grateful for the support of loved ones, and the best possible care by the most compassionate doctor. Thankfully, it was benign, and no surgery was needed on my precious boobie! :) *My PSA - Breast cancer affects both young and old. Do yourself a favor, and perform a self exam. Fellas, that means you, too, as men also get breast cancer. Early detection is crucial. If something doesn't feel right, get it checked out (and the sooner the better)! This 200th review is in honor of my beloved mom, the most loving and unselfish woman I know and a breast cancer survivor; and in loving memory of Nancy, a dear family friend, who was the most courageous woman I know, who unfortunately lost her battle with breast cancer. These inspirational lyrics from U2's "Walk On" sums it all up: "And I know it aches; And your heart it breaks; And you can only take so much. Walk on, walk on!"

So yesterday I sat watching the NFL bedecked with pink towels and pink sticky gloves and shoes,…read morethinking that the pink seemed to be doing little for my team other than clash with their uniform. The concept and sincerity was something else, though, and as I sat watching the Jets lose their contest I thought of others who were fighting their own. Little did I know that at that very moment a friend locked in just such a contest elected to throw in the pink towel. She had fought a hard fight and at times seemed on the verge of winning for good. But yesterday, sadly, I think she decided she'd had enough. My great aunt many years ago was taken similarly. When diagnosed and given the prognosis she elected to take stock in her life to that point and not change its memory by further treatment (had her prognosis been different her chosen path would have been as well, I'm sure). One day I'd like to be that brave. Tomorrow is the Pink Party at BoilerHouse. I hope to see many of my friends in attendance, bedecked. There are others that won't be able to make it. Tomorrow, for Trish, for my great aunt, and for many, many others, I'll be drinking in your honor.

I've wanted to go visit Angel Island for a while and thought it would be neat to take a boat to a…read morerace so I signed up for the Angel Island 25K. It is a pretty bare bones type trail race - no giant banner finishing, no jock jams at the start, no fancy burrito post-race buffet - just a fun and challenging trail race. protips: - pack a picnic for after the race - ferry leaves for tiburon on the 20 past the hour - it gets hot on the second loop bring enough water/fuel - 25K is two loops but the scenery changes quite a bit once the fog lifts

I signed up for 25K but I had to finish at 12K due to my ankle injury. Thanks to the crew! They…read moredidn't make a big deal out of me finishing early. Very nice people organizing this race. I have to say it wasn't super organized but they make it comfy & fun so I didn't mind at all. It was a truly beautiful event for me & my family. My hubby & 2 year old took the ferry together to the Island. She had a blast at the little beach playing with sand while I was running & the ferry ride was an amazing experience for her. Must do trail running event in bay area!! It's really fun. I'll try this race again in December! 25K this time!!

Wow! It seriously amazes me what both my mind and body can achieve. I entered this run simply with…read morethe intent to complete just because it was different to the usual flat Half Marathon's. With an injured knee I didn't expect to even place but ended up walking away with another 1st place medal under my belt. Happy Days! This event was 3 different races: Half Marathon - Very Challenging 10 Km - Challenging 5 Km - Easy Registration: I registered online which was pretty easy, however due to the time on their website being set forward by a few hours I was charged more than I should have been. It's no big deal though as it wasn't a huge amount, just something to keep in mind for future events. Packet pickup was available the day before or on the day, I opted for on the day and upon arrival discovered it was a fraction under 1 mile from the parking so before I had even started the event I had done almost 3 miles. The Course: The Half Marathon course was indeed a challenge. Not so much the incline's and decline's but the course. With the exception of about 2% of it which was tarmac road it was all dirt, rocks, sand and mud so being very agile was a must. One wrong step and you could seriously injure yourself and on some parts of the trail end up falling down the side of the Mountain into a ditch (There is no real definition of a Mountain but given the height many will class Castle Rock as one as it reaches almost 3,000 feet). This run confirmed something to me and that was I seem to excel at uphill running, downhill however is not my friend. With the uneven surface and loose rocks downhill is a real challenge not to loose your footing. Teamed with a knee injury the impact was incredibly painful in some parts. My advice - don't play the bad ass if you have an injury. Around mile 6 was when it hit me, the track became very narrow and went from uphill to very steep downhill and took you off into woodland where you were going over rocks, tree stumps and vine. I honestly thought I might have to pull out at the next aid station and had to limp for around 2 miles until the Aspirin kicked in letting a couple of people overtake me. The views were however worth it. From the top of Castle Rock you could see for miles, it really was breathtaking in more ways than one. Aid Stations: There were just 2 for the entire course and were located at 2.6 and 7.1 miles stocked with water, sports drink, snacks (Cookies, Chips, Trail Mix ect) and energy gels. Post Race: Post race awards were given for various age groups along with drinks and snacks for everybody to refuel. Drinks included Soda (no Diet or Zero. Boo!), Sports drink and chilled water with snacks of Cinnamon Rolls, Brownies, Chips, Trail Mix, Candy, Cookies and Orange slices. Nothing really took my fancy and it would have been nice to have some Banana's for everybody as they're both my pre and post run snack of choice. I could have probably fought somebody' for a Banana and chilled glass of Milk or Bowl of Greek Yogurt, instead I had to wait until I got home. T-Shirts: These are quite nice, I did like the Red color but would have loved a Pink one like last years. II'm just not sure of the quality as once I finished the run I noticed that mixed with sweat (I know.. sexy, right?) the color had ran and turned the white straps of my Camelbak pink to match the rest of it. Would I do this race again? Hell yeah! It was a good event, well organised and clearly marked out.

I have taken Sueellen's class for 3 years. Benefits? Substantial! Here's why:…read more 1) local. I walk to class (9:30 am Monday through Thursday) at the beautifully restored Harvey Milk Center for the Arts. 2) more than my share of weekly excercise. I can't get enough! 3) all ages and body types. Everyone is welcome and no gym attitude. 4) did I say the hour long class starts at 9:30 am? Can't beat that.... 5) cheap! When is the last time you took an excercise class for $2 bucks? It's the best kept secret. *BONUS - try the class out for free and see if it is for you. *Go to "San Francisco Park and Rec" and check out Sueellen's class. You won't regret it.

OK friend saw flyer for this one so I decided to do it. The money goes to a good cause for $45.00…read moreto help out the Rotary tutoring projects at Garfield School in Redwood City and the Rotary scholarship program. I have a choice between 65 miles or 37 miles and I decide lower one since not sure I can handle and never done this tour ;)) Well good thing I picked the lower one since quite a few folks said 65 mile was really tough and there were some bad markings on 37 miler which a bunch of us got lost around VMWare and figured out that was the way back not towards the winery DOH!! So we all road 40 miles instead. Here are some highlights: -Lost in VMWare parking lot with 4 other folks going ok at least we were not alone -Going up Montebello Road and wondering why I'm going super slow to later realize I have a flat tire ( Ok not in such bad shape after all!) That road was super steep and sucked! -Nice man from SAG support who changed my tire super quick so I could go on my way. I owe you one! You are my hero! -Awesome view from Picchetti Ranch of Cupertino -Yummy roast beef sandwiches from Draegers and those grapes and oatmeal cookies rocked! -Way back some guy deciding to moon our group as we rode back (EWW!) Good times and hope to do again next year!

So...there comes a time in a former athlete's life when she must admit that she is old, and the…read morebody is no longer cooperative. That time would be this bike ride. My friend Monique and I decided to roll out of bed on a Sunday for a 7am start time of this 30 or 50 mile bike ride. Well, the 30 miler was billed as a beginning to intermediate ride. Folks--it was not. We hit the hills by Canada College near Woodside and OUCH--straight uphill. Knees uncooperative. Furthermore, this lovely little race was put on by the Rotary Club and claimed to be "fully supported." To that I say, "My ass!" or rather, "My knees!" Monique and I waited for a while for "support" after conquering the first set of three hills. My right knee was not in a good way. We finally gave up and rode gingerly to Robert's Market for hot chocolate. This race was a bust, and the $45 entry fee hopefully went to a good cause, because...otherwise I might be tempted to scream GIANT RIP-OFF. Oh wait, it was a giant rip off. Kids, if you want to go on a bike ride, just head to Woodside or Skyline and go biking. You'll get about the same amount of "support." God bless the Rotary Club....