Vine Body Sole

Our first fitness challenge to kick off the weekend was a hard-core 90 minute workout class led by Anna Kaiser, founder of AKT in motion. It was a full body workout combining cardio, strength training, and stretching that was actually harder, in my opinion, than the half marathon! We worked our butts off to a great playlist with a heart pumping, high-energy routine that kept me motivated and psyched to sweat and push myself ’til the end of workout. We were focusing on working muscles that we wouldn’t typically use during a run to balance and strengthen us before we hit the 13.1 mile course.  And, after all the hard work were rewarded with an avocado toast bar and a delicious wine tasting to fuel-up and have some fun. Next up, was sunset yoga and more wine!

Friday night it was time for some sunset yoga in the vineyards to stretch out and “wine down” before race day. It was just what my bod needed to loosen up and keep calm to mentally prepare. It was a perfectly cool night with a little breeze and just enough sun to set the tone for a perfect practice. After class, we showered up and got ready for the pre-race party at yet another vineyard with great live music, drinks and yummy food to keep our bellies full and to get us pumped up!

The big day started bright and early Saturday morning at Beringer Vineyards and ended up at the Charles Krug Winery. It was a little overcast and cool, but perfect weather conditions for 13.1 miles. Not to mention, it was the most gorgeous course for running with beautiful wine country along side us the whole way. We also got to meet and hang with ASICS athletes Deena Kastor and Alysia Montano (above) for a little extra motivation and inspiration.

I ran in the ASICS Gel-Kayano 22 Lite-Show, my go-to running sneaker for most runs. Because I over pronate, these are perfect for me to get the support I need without a heavy shoe to weigh me down. And, they’re super comfy and come in so many bright colors so I can be spotted from miles away!

This was truly an amazing experience. I met so many strong, beautiful women and hope to train for another race very soon. Thank you ASICS for this exciting opportunity and having me be a part of such an inspiring, empowering event.