Hello Nashville!
I couldn’t wait to get to Nashville for the Women’s Running Series (WRS) Half Marathon! It was my fifth half marathon, excluding (2) virtual half marathons. My HB also wanted his first half marathon to have a sweet medal so he decided on the Women’s Running Half Marathon. *insert proud wife expression* We found out about the WRS at the Disney Princess Half Marathon Expo last February. You can read my race recap here. My HB saw the medal and said…”I WANT that medal!” When I heard that the medal was going to be even sweeter than the year before…I was sold! You’ll see why in a minute.
On to the Expo!
I spy something shiny and big!
If you are a runner/walker (especially distance) or into athletics…you MUST look for The Stick people. You can find them at most race Expos but just in case you haven’t seen them, you can visit them online here. The Stick has changed my life! It goes into abyss of every muscle and will make it hurt so good. Works that soreness right on out. It’s easy to carry with you and can tuck nicely into your suitcase. They have different sizes available too. Trust me you’ll want one!
Of course Bondi Band was there!
FLOWERS! Fellow Flowers is a movement that was created by two amazing women to uplift, encourage, and connect us (women) through our passions…and to show the world, “We run simply because we get to.” Find out more about the amazing movement here.
I had the opportunity to meet, Tori, one of the core gems behind Fellow Flowers! She was super sweet!
This was my first race as a Half Fanatic! I also wore my first “Flower”. What it stands for is perfect as I prepare for my race in January. I BELIEVE and know that I CAN!
“Believe. To look within, to overcome. Loving myself enough. I have the will, the determination and the courage to defy the odds…and inspire. My challenges have made me a fighter – a survivor. They will not define me or confine me. I will run my own race. Different, beautiful and all my own. I believe in me and my potential. And I’m going to succeed because I’m brave enough to think I can.”
Race Day!
My socks were getting all the love. They are by Bondi Band and you can find them here!
It was my first time meeting Half Fanatics from around the globe! They are absolutely amazing and they provide great support and energy while you’re on the course! So happy to be a part of this group! #HF 6579
Mama, I made it!!!
Can you tell where I’m headed?
Mimosas at the finish line waiting for us! How awesome is that?!
Had to make a pit stop at the Smoothie King Truck—compliments of Women’s Running! And look at that smile…someone is happy to rock their FIRST half marathon medal/bling! I’m so proud!!! :)
Another half marathon in the books! I am absolutely in LOVE with this medal! The charm keepsake is adorable! This photo doesn’t do it ANY justice. It’s huge!
This is one of the best races and post-race party experiences I’ve ever had. Women’s Running Nashville was so much fun and the support and camaraderie was amazing! Even though the hills were alive…it was such a beautiful course. I can’t wait to return again next year! I have fallen in love with this city!
A little fun on Broadway and Nashville Eats!
I found this placed called Fresh To Order (fine. fresh.food.) and loved it! For my pre-race meal, I ordered the Chopped Wedge and the manager was kind to give me a complimentary Raspberry Mojito Lemonade while I waited. Ah-mazingly refreshing! The Wedge was enough for 3-4 people to share…so yummy! No, I didn’t eat it all. I had it along with half of my Jet’s Pizza, Grilled Chicken “Boat”.
The day after the race we wanted to try out some of Nashville’s delicious barbeque! We weren’t sure of where to go so we asked a few people and went to the Yelp app to check out some reviews. Jack’s Bar-B-Que kept coming up so we decided to try it out! Broadway was clearly where all of the happenings were. There was a motorcade with hundreds and hundreds of bikers riding through Broadway along with a benefit concert by Dierks Bentley!
I’m sorry, but you don’t go to a good BBQ place and order green beans! Just sayin’. The food was great!
If you go to Nashville with running shoes, you MUST leave with new cowboy boots!
Until next time, Nashville!
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Shamar says
I’m so proud of your dedication and excitement for running! You’ve really gone all in with it over the year and I admire your drive honay! Oh, and I love me some Fresh To Order! Their wild mushroom soup is ridiculously good, and their salads are SO fresh and abundant. Thanks for sharing, love you girl.
Artney says
You are such a gem, Shamar! Thank you for your kind words!!! I love you more! Btw…the manager said they are planning to open one here. Can’t wait!
Sonya says
Cute cowboy boots! I admire runners like yourself. I’ve never ran more than 3.5 miles at one time. Maybe one day when my kids are a little older I’ll be able to run more.
Artney says
Thank you, Sonya! Running is a great stress reliever with awesome benefits! Hopefully you’ll get to get out there soon!
Mike Huiwitz says
Wow. It sounds like a fun event. Me too, I love participating in marathons.
Nancy says
Very cool!! So awesome how dedicated you are :)
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